Pillar Point Harbor, El Granada, and Princeton-by-the-Sea

Located just 4 miles north of Half Moon Bay, the Harbor is surrounded by popular beaches, bird habitats, and excellent surf.   The picturesque Pillar Point Harbor is also home to commercial fishing boats offering fishing trips and whale-watching tours.  You can also rent a kayak, shop in the region's only indoor mall, stay at a luxury resort, and eat a many fine restaurants. 

Although often attributed to Half Moon Bay – t he Mavericks annual surf competition is actually held in >Princeton-by-the-Sea.  Well…actually about a ½ mile off  its shoreline.

Miramar Beach & El Granada Beach –  Features a wonderful shoreline and surf that are great for swimming, surfing, beach-combing, etc.

|| Area Snapshot

• Location – Located 4 miles north of Half Moon Bay and 49 miles north of Santa Cruz.

• Population – Around Princeton = 297 residents, El Granada = 3,600

• Established   –  The area has been thriving since the early 1900's

• Weather   –  Generally speaking, the Half Moon Bay coastal region has the warmest daytime temperatures during the spring and fall months.   During the summer months, the days can be overcast, foggy, and very chilly  –  especially in June and July .  Winter months are often overcast, rainy and cold.

• Primary Industries are/were   –  farming, fishing, and tourism.

|| Area Attractions:

• Eco-friendly Activities  –  Surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean and green spaces, Half Moon Bay is home to many eco-friendly activities that can cater to just about any outdoor enthusiast.

• Fishing & Whale-Watching Tours  –  Charter a boat and enjoy a day of deep-sea fishing or a join in on a whale-watching excursion

• Pillar Point Marsh  –  A great location for beach-combers and bird-watchers.

• Pillar Point Harbor  –  Full of outdoor activities including boating, kayaking, walking, biking, bird-watching, surf fishing, and much more.

• Miramar Beach & El Granada Beach –  Features a great beach and surf that are great for swimming, surfing, beach-combing, etc.

|| Tourist Destinations:

• Harbor Village  –  Located in the Pillar Point Harbor, the recently complete Harbor Village is home to the area's only indoor mall, Oceano Hotel & Spa, and several restaurants

• Half Moon Bay Brewing Company  –   390 Capistrano Ave., Pillar Point Harbor, CA  (650) 728-2739

• Barbara's Fishtrap  –  281 Capistrano Road, Princeton  (650) 728-7049

• Half Moon Bay Brewing Company   –   390 Capistrano Ave., Pillar Point Harbor, CA  (650) 728-2739

• Ketch Joanne & Harbor Bar  –  Pillar Point Harbor, CA (650) 728-3747

Explorer1.com Review ─ Good food, excellent service, and a cozy rustic ambiance make this an excellent choice for a low key, moderately priced restaurant.

||  Festivals/Annual Events:

• Art & Pumpkin Festival   –  If you plan to attend this highly publicized and populated  event in October, you may want to make hotel reservations early!

• Mavericks Annual Surf Contest   –  Just north of Half Moon Bay in Princeton, CA, the famous Mavericks can be found a ½ mile off of the Pillar Point Marsh shoreline.

During the winter months, the perfect set of environmental conditions can come together to create some of the biggest waves on the planet!  Although spectacular to look at, the waves at Mavericks should only be negotiated by professionals.  Less experienced surfers can find more appropriate waves along the local beach beaks.   

• December Harbor Lights Ceremony  –  Pillar Point Harbor Info.  (650) 726-5723

• For more event listings, please click here >>