Half Moon Bay is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning natural scenery, including beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, and rolling hills. There are many hiking trails in Half Moon Bay that offer amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscapes. The trails range form easy to very strenuous, so there is something for outdoor enthusiasts of at any skill level. Here are some of the area’s most popular hikes:
Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and rich history. The trail is multiuse: bikers, hikers and equestrians are all welcome. More information can be found at https://explorer1.com/halfmoonbay/burleigh-h-murray-ranch-state-park/
Half Moon Bay State Beach
This park offers several miles of beaches and trails that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline. More information can be found at https://explorer1.com/halfmoonbay/half-moon-bay-state-beach/
McNee Ranch State Park/Montera Mountain
This park offers over 700 acres of rugged coastal terrain, including a 7.5-mile hike takes you to the summit of Montara Mountain. The 1,898-foot mountain peak offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay Area. Although the hike to the summit is very challenging, the views are well worth it. For more information, https://www.coastsidestateparks.org/mcnee-ranch
Miramontes Ridge Trail — Currently Closed
This 5.3-mile trail takes you through the coastal scrubland and offers great views of the ocean and the surrounding hills. It is a moderately difficult hike with some steep sections.
Pillar Point Bluff Trail
This short hike offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Mavericks, a world-famous surf spot. The trail is just over a mile long and is suitable for all skill levels. For more information, https://www.smcgov.org/parks/pillar-point-bluff
Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve
Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 Phone: (650) 691-1200
This 4,711-acre preserve offers over 24 miles of hiking trails through towering redwoods, babbling creeks, and lush ferns. The North Ridge Trail offers stunning views of Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. There are several trails (walking and hiking) within the preserve, ranging from easy to difficult.
The most difficult aspect of the Preserve is finding parking. The official parking lot is very small, and the availble parking outside of the park are few. Our advice is to arrive early and/or during the week.
For more information, https://explorer1.com/halfmoonbay/purisima-creek-redwoods-preserve/
These are just a few of the best hikes in Half Moon Bay. There are many other trails and parks to explore in the area, so be sure to do some research and find the ones that best fit your interests and skill level.
Are you looking for something a little less challenging like a nature walk perhaps? Visit our Half Moon Bay Nature Walks page for some of the area’s top walks.
