South of San Francisco and north of expectations, the San Francisco Peninsula stretches from Silicon Valley to The City and holds a treasure trove of quaint towns and unique destinations. Half Moon Bay is one of them, nestled on the coast between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Half Moon Bay is home to many bird species, avid boaters and watersports fans, and a thriving destination filed with merriment and sunshine (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
In the 18th century, Spanish Catholic missionaries first used this land—green and cool from the onshore winds butting up against the mountains—as land for grazing cattle. The earth’s agricultural richness allowed this area to become one of the earliest western communities in present day San Mateo County, California. Farmers cultivated flowers, grew artichokes, cabbages, and sprouts, and today the area proudly calls itself the Pumpkin Capital of the World. Visiting during fall harvest time is a spectacle, as Californians jockey for prized gourds with visitors from all over the world.
Like many cities and towns around the US, Half Moon Bay incorporates several surrounding communities. These include Miramar, El Granada, and Princeton, which share the bayfront. In 2020, the population of Half Moon Bay was 11,795 people.
A true four-season destination, Half Moon Bay has a bit of everything for everyone wrapped in the easy-going nature of California. This guide touches on some of the most important aspects of Half Moon Bay and provides those planning a visit with a list of where to eat, drink, and sleep, and an idea of what to do.
Things to Do
Main Street Half Moon Bay is full of shops, restaurants, and activities year-round. (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Saturday mornings in Half Moon Bay come alive at the Coastside Farmer’s Market (Shoreline Station, Cabrillo Hwy S). From May through December, locals and visitors browse farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, and gourmet treats, with live music as a background. Main Street is home to cozy cafés, eclectic boutiques, and art galleries.
Summer and fall bring live music to Mac Dutra Park (504 Main St) and Shakespearean performances to John L Carter Memorial Park (301 Main St). History buffs can explore the town’s original jail-turned-museum, while annual events like the famous Pumpkin Festival and Night of Lights make this coastal town a great visit in the fall and winter.
Pillar Point Marsh and Shoreline (1 Johnson Pier) in Princeton is a small spot, but it is huge with bird watchers. Birders have spotted nearly twenty percent of all North American bird species here, including blue herons, snowy egrets, and red-winged blackbirds who flock to this unique marsh fed by both fresh and salt water. Gnarly views of Pillar Point Harbor reward hikers who follow the trail around the point to the breakwater and tidepools. California sea lions often bask on the jagged offshore rocks.
Devil’s Bunker stands as modern day art on the Oceanside cliffs of California (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
A 15-minute drive north, up the beautiful State Route 1—better known as the Pacific Coast Highway—leads to Devil’s Slide Trail (between Pacifica and Montara) and Devil’s Bunker. The 1.3-mile mixed use trail provides access to the rocky heights of Devil’s Slide above the Pacific Ocean via a former segment of Route 1. Signs along the trail share insights about the area’s history, geography, and local wildlife, including marine and bird species. Once part of the coastal defense system, Devil’s Bunker is an abandoned military bunker, which now serves as a popular urban exploration site covered in colorful graffiti.
: A cool stop in the middle of nowhere, San Gregorio General Store is the first “beachy” respite after coming down from the Santa Cruz mountains (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Leaving what locals call “Oceanside” and heading east, rolling green hills make way for windswept cypress trees on a mini road trip. In San Gregorio, stop at San Gregorio General Store (7615 Stage Rd, San Gregorio) to stock up on fresh baked sourdough from Rosalind Bakery, enjoy a cocktail or alcohol-free beer at a picnic table, or pick up a gift in this unique venue in the middle of nowhere. Continue east to see towering redwood trees and have lunch at Alice’s Restaurant (17288 Skyline Blvd, Woodside). Or head back La Honda Rd to the shore and continue to Pigeon Point Lighthouse (210 Pigeon Point Rd, Pescadero), a 15-minute drive south. Built in 1872, the lighthouse is part museum part scenic spot—watch for migrating whales!
The beauty of the surroundings often disguise the toughness of the 18th at The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
At The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay (2 Miramontes Point Rd) golfers can choose from two championship courses along the stunning Pacific coast—The Ocean Course, a scenic links-style challenge, and the Old Course, co-designed by Arnold Palmer. Both offer unforgettable play. The challenging and picturesque 18th hole, ranked among the best in the sport, is framed by the resort’s Scottish-inspired architecture—where golf meets luxury in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Beach life
Looking beyond Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay, Oceanside welcomes extreme surfers, fun-loving foodies, and nature explorers (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Spend time bumming around Mavericks Beach. At the northern tip of the half-moon-shaped bay sits Mavericks, the legendary surf spot renowned for its towering waves and daredevil riders. It started as a secret spot but now hosts a legendary big-wave competition. Each winter, elite surfers from around the world flock to this California break where swells can reach 60 feet. The spot’s prowess has cemented its place in surf culture, inspiring films, documentaries, and even a namesake beer. Grab some gear from Maverick’s Surf Company (25 Johnson Pier, Pillar Point Harbor Blvd).
There are several named beaches along the bay. Dunes Beach is a nice quiet spot. Venice Beach offers easy access to the California Coastal Trail for hikers and bikers. Francis Beach has a campground for overnight stays. And Poplar Beach is the favorite among locals, who often walk their dogs near the bluffs—it is a horse friendly beach, too.
A cool stop in the middle of nowhere, San Gregorio General Store is the first “beachy” respite after coming down from the Santa Cruz mountains (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Two spectacular state beaches are within an easy drive from Half Moon Bay. San Gregorio State Beach is known for its dramatic landscape and wide, open beach area. Gentle waves complement grassy bluffs, tide pools, and dune caves. Pescadero State Beach is just as dramatic, and even a bit more rugged. Beachcombing, wildlife spotting, and exploring takes place at both North and South Pescadero Beach. North Beach offers easy access to sand and surf, while South Beach has scenic trails leading to stunning ocean views. Both beaches offer parking, restrooms, and picnic areas for a small fee.
Where to Eat and Drink
A ceviche tasting at La Costanera (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
The San Francisco Peninsula is home to several Michelin-starred and James Beard Award winning restaurants. Even some of the no frills eateries have garnered regional and national acclaim, and an enthusiastic fan following. Michelin Guide-recommended La Costanera (260 Capistrano Rd) offers Nouvelle-inspired Peruvian cuisine at Pillar Point Harbor. The two-story, circular restaurant overlooks the bay, and guests can opt to dine on ceviche, tartare, and bocaditos as small plates or opt for entrees categorized as land, sea, and vegetarian. The downstairs bar and patio offer a happy hour menu Tuesday through Friday.
Some of the best Oceanside outdoor dining is at Sam’s Chowder House (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
This close to the sea, Half Moon Bay has plenty of options for fresh seafood. Sam’s Chowder House (4210 N. Cabrillo Hwy) was voted “Best Seafood in the Bay Area” by the San Francisco Bay Area A-List, “Neighborhood Favorite” by Nextdoor, and named “Top Three Outdoor Dining Spots in the Bay Area” by San Francisco Magazine. Their commitment to ocean-fresh, sustainable seafood shines in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. The New England chowder, made with Little Neck clams, Yukon Gold potatoes, and smoked bacon is a rite of passage for visitors to Half Moon Bay. And so is the usual line outside Barbara’s Fishtrap (281 Capistrano Rd), which speaks for the popularity of this Oceanside eatery feeding fans since the ’70s.
All signs for a good cocktail lead to Jettywave (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Jettywave Distillery (155 Broadway) is renowned for its well-crafted cocktails served in a unique and chill environment on the way to Mavericks Beach. Jetywave’s focus is on locally sourced ingredients to create high-quality, small-batch spirits. A visit to the American Legion Coastside Post 474 (470 Capistrano Rd) surely leads to local tales and cold beer in an old timey setting; the club is private for servicemembers and their guests. Beer fans will find a sports pub meets ocean bar at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company (390 Capistrano Rd). In 2000, this place instantly became a community spot for craft beer, pub-style food, and friendly chatter. Brewer James Costa creates a wide selection of beer styles.
Navio is the culinary gem of Half Moon Bay (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
The culinary gem of Half Moon Bay is Navio (1 Miramontes Point Rd), located inside The Ritz-Carlton. Designed to resemble the hull of a wooden ship, Navio offers a refined contemporary European dining experience set against stunning ocean views. Chef de Cuisine Xisco Simón (past awards include two Michelin stars) creates stunning and delicious 3- or 7-course tasting menus based on seasonality and inspired by the local harvest from field and sea. The Navio brunch is an à la carte experience with individually plated dishes diners can order at will during a two-hour seating.
Where to Stay
Opulent amenities and a spectacular view add to the luxury of The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
The apex of accommodations in Half Moon Bay is The Ritz-Carlton (1 Miramontes Point Rd). Nestled into its own private cove, ocean-facing rooms offer extraordinary views and unlimited sunsets—weather permitting. This haven of luxury and relaxation contains 261 elegantly designed rooms and suites with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities. The spa offers rejuvenating treatments like ocean-inspired massages, forest rituals, and body scrubs, complete with steam rooms and whirlpools. The spa pairs with a state-of-the-art fitness center to create curated wellness programs for all guests. Beyond the aforementioned Navio, the resort features the steak and seafood focused Conservatory, and an outdoor casual dining space called the Ocean Terrace.
The “can’t miss” old mission style building in downtown Half Moon Bay is Instagram friendly and stands out as the Half Moon Bay Inn (401 Main St)—inside, too, with quaint and unique décor. This boutique overnight is recommended for its friendly owners, fully stocked kitchenettes, and luxurious beds with high-end linens. Note, this historic building does not feature an elevator.
Guests enjoy wonderful ocean views en suite at Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach (407 Mirada Rd). Sleeping close enough to hear the surf and starting the day off with the included breakfast only adds to this escape to the Oceanside. Each room is simple, yet abundantly refined.