10 Unique Things To Do In Half Moon Bay – Best For First Timers

What’s that beautiful town you find along Highway 1 when coming down from San Francisco? Oh, that’s the popular Half Moon Bay and there are so many things to do here!

I’m so thankful to be living just 30 minutes away from one of the best places along the California coast. Half Moon Bay is a popular weekend hangout spot because of its beaches, shopping and dining. It is the perfect mix of both nature and relaxing leisure. I was the most blown away by how close you can get to the beach just by driving along Half Moon Bay.

To help you make the most of your visit, here are the top things to do. I also include suggestions on places to stay for a convenient and unforgettable trip.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the coast or the Bay Area, check out these hikes and other San Francisco day trips such as to Pescadero, Santa Cruz, or Point Reyes.

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Where is Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a coastal city located in San Mateo County. It is just approximately 30 miles south of San Francisco within the Bay Area Peninsula.

There are so many things to do in the SF Bay Area. Specifically, this city is known for its stunning beaches, bustling downtown scene and outdoor recreational opportunities like surfing. Visitors often come here to enjoy its natural beauty and explore the charming coastal community.

How to get to Half Moon Bay

Getting to Half Moon Bay depends on your starting point, but here are general directions from two major nearby cities: San Francisco and San Jose.

From San Francisco: Take Highway 1 South from San Francisco. The drive takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic and you’ll get to enjoy the scenic route along the coast.

From San Jose: Take US-101 or 280 North to CA-92 West. Then, head on Highway 1 to reach Half Moon Bay. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traffic conditions around Half Moon Bay

In general, it will be better to get in to Half Moon Bay before 10am to avoid the weekend traffic congestion. Some frequent goers told me that they usually hangout here in the morning and return during lunch time to avoid the traffic both ways.

However, I prefer to spend a longer time here so we’ll usually leave during late afternoon. There’s usually a bit of traffic on the way out, but nothing too crazy.

Do note that traffic conditions can get quite bad during peak periods, such as fall weekends when the famous pumpkin festival is in full force. It can be tough to drive around when people are parking on both sides of a very narrow road in this small town. Some locals even go as far as avoiding Half Moon Bay during October.

What are the best things to do in Half Moon Bay

I recommend allocating a full day to visit Half Moon Bay if this is your first time. You could even spend the night here for a Bay Area weekend trip as an alternative to staying in San Francisco.

1. Hang out at Half Moon Bay State Beach

The Half Moon Bay State Beach extends for four miles, and includes several beaches. These are Francis, Venice, Dunes, and Roosevelt beaches.

The main beach is Francis Beach which also has a visitor center that is free to check out on the weekends. It is also close to downtown Half Moon Bay which makes it a convenient place to visit.

Each of these beaches have their own day-use parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas. You also have access to outdoor showers at Venice beach. Do note that dogs are not allowed on the beaches, but they can be in the day-use picnic areas while leashed.

One of the special features here is that there are beach-friendly wheelchairs available for public use on Francis Beach. They can be borrowed from the Francis Beach Entrance Station (95 Kelly Ave) at no cost.

2. Walk along Pillar Point Bluff Trail

As you drive down from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay, you might have come across this golf ball-looking structure on a coastal bluff. This is at Pillar Point, and you can walk along the Bluff Trail to get there while admiring the view. This area can get busy during the big surfing seasons in winter, so parking can be hard to find. However, people do come and go often so it does pay to wait out for a spot.

This is a great place to visit to tide pool during the King Tides, which is another name for the high tides that happen during winter months of January to February. Nearby, you can also check out the Pillar Point Harbor where the waves are calm and people often fish on the breakwater.

3. Watch surfers at Mavericks Beach

Just below Pillar Point you’ll find Mavericks Beach which is the world renown surf spot where competitions take place. With the exception of competition days, you can actually visit the beach by walking along the West Shoreline Access from the parking lot. This will take you past Pillar Point Harbor, onto Mavericks Beach that is exposed to the Pacific Ocean.

Do check for tide information and pay attention to any warnings or advisory too. There’s also a saying that you should never turn your back against the ocean.

4. Explore Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail

If you’re looking to take a longer walk along the beach, check out the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail. Alternatively, you could also bring a bike to cycle down this stretch. Choose any portion of this trail, perhaps the section near the Ritz-Carlton hotel if you’re planning to see it as well. You’ll get the chance to see wildlife and experience the coast at a slower pace as you pass through various beaches.

5. Relax at Main Street in Downtown Half Moon Bay

Downtown Half Moon Bay is a bustling area known for its shops, art galleries and restaurants. If you’re here for a casual meetup, there are cafes here to relax at as well. This place also has a rich history dating back to the early settlers who travelled around the region via Highway 92. Simply walk down Main Street and imagine yourself travelling back in time.

Some of the popular places to eat include Pasta Moon, a farm to table dining concept. Dad’s Luncheonette is also well known for their sandwiches. There are many more places you can explore in this town. If you’re planning to celebrate a special event, try to make reservations especially for dinner.

6. Take part in Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival

The annual Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival will be held, typically in October. It features art and crafts and other pumpkin-related activities. For example, you can visit pumpkin patches which would be decorated in the most entertaining ways. It’s always fun to take some pictures in these charming patches with their unique decorations.

I recommend visiting earlier in the day, and avoid rainy days for the best experience. Crowds can get crazy at this time, so do your best to stay calm when looking for parking.

7. Admire The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is a gorgeous luxury hotel perched on a coastal cliff, surrounded by a perfectly-manicured golf course. It would be an amazing experience to stay here, but it definitely is quite pricey. Instead, you can enjoy the location by dining or having a drink at their outdoor lawn. It is open to the public and you also get to sit at the communal fire pit as you watch the scenery. Wouldn’t it be so magical at sunset?

8. Camp overnight at Francis Beach

If you want to experience camping by the beach, you can reserve a campsite on Francis Beach. This way, you don’t have to rush with everyone else in the traffic just to get back for dinner. Take it slow throughout the day, enjoy a meal downtown, before winding down at night with the sound of the waves.

This is a great place to camp during winter as it doesn’t snow here and the weather is much warmer than the mountains. In addition, winter sunsets are stunning – there’s just something about it that’s different, like the way it’s extra pink and vibrant. Do note that it can get quite windy at the coast, so bring enough layers to keep yourself warm. Here are some cold weather camping gear suggestions that might help you plan a camping trip.

9. Check out the Farmers’ Market

Other than going to established shops and stores, consider visiting the Farmers’ Market. They typically feature a variety of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, handmade crafts, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local farmers and vendors while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Do check the official website to find out timings and locations.

10. Enjoy fresh seafood beside the beach

One of the most popular things to do here is to try the amazing lobster roll and clam chowder at Sam’s Chowder. It is located at Pillar Point Harbor so you can easily go down to explore the beach after your meal. The restaurant also has outdoor seating which overlooks the harbor, and is often packed with people especially during summer. There’s parking right outside, but most people park at the roadside once it fills up. Another place to check out is Barbara’s Fish Trap which happens to be nearby.

More things to do in and around Half Moon Bay

• Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
• Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
• Horseback Riding at Sea Horse Ranch
• Montara State Beach
• Gray Whale Cove State Beach

If you have more time, make sure to go on a Highway 1 road trip to see Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur.