Background

Half Moon Bay Distillery: Coastal Craft Spirits

Experience handcrafted spirits at Half Moon Bay Distillery, where local ingredients and passion create award-winning vodka and gin, embodying the spirit of the California coast.

4

Half Moon Bay Distillery, a small-batch distillery nestled in the charming coastal town of Half Moon Bay, offers a taste of handcrafted spirits with a local touch. Founded with a passion for quality and community, the distillery produces award-winning vodka, gin, and other unique spirits using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Visitors can experience the art of distillation firsthand, learning about the process from grain to glass. The distillery also hosts events and cocktail-making classes, fostering a vibrant atmosphere for spirit enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With a commitment to sustainability and a dedication to the craft, Half Moon Bay Distillery embodies the spirit of the California coast, offering a memorable and authentic tasting experience. It's a great place to sample locally made spirits and learn about the distillation process, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Half Moon Bay.

A brief summary to Half Moon Bay Distillery

Local tips

  • Check the distillery's website for upcoming events, live music, and special tasting opportunities to enhance your visit.
  • Consider taking a cocktail-making class to learn how to create delicious drinks using Half Moon Bay Distillery's spirits.
  • Explore the nearby Pillar Point Harbor for fresh seafood and scenic views after your distillery visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 1, heading north or south, turn onto Kelly Avenue towards Half Moon Bay. Continue on Kelly Avenue until you reach Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street, then turn right onto Harvard Avenue. The distillery will be on your left. Parking is available on the street, but can be limited. There are also public parking lots on Johnston Street, one block east of Main Street, offering 12-hour parking. Be aware of the 2-hour parking limits on Main Street. Metered parking is not applicable in these areas.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) from anywhere in Half Moon Bay, simply provide the address, 103 Harvard Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, as your destination. Typical fares from other locations within Half Moon Bay range from $15-$30, depending on distance and demand. Note that ride-share availability can be limited, especially during peak hours or on weekends. UberX from Half Moon Bay Golf Links to Half Moon Bay Distillery is around $13. From Daly City Station, it is around $34.

  • Public Transport

    SamTrans operates bus routes in Half Moon Bay. From the Main St & Miramontes St stop, walk east on Miramontes Street, turn right onto Kelly Avenue, then turn right onto Harvard Avenue. The distillery will be on your left. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.50.

Unlock the Best of Half Moon Bay Distillery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Half Moon Bay Distillery

Half Moon Bay Distillery is a testament to the spirit of craftsmanship and community found along the picturesque California coast. This small-batch distillery, located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the art of distilling premium spirits, from the selection of ingredients to the final, flavorful product. Founded with a commitment to quality and a passion for the local area, the distillery has quickly become a beloved destination for spirit enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Stepping into Half Moon Bay Distillery is like entering a world where tradition meets innovation. The distillery itself is a carefully designed space, housing state-of-the-art equipment alongside time-honored distilling techniques. The passionate team of distillers meticulously oversees every step of the process, ensuring that each bottle reflects the unique character of the California coast. The distillery's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible further enhances the connection to the surrounding environment, creating spirits that are truly representative of Half Moon Bay. The distillery's flagship spirits include HMB Vodka, HMB Gin, and HMB Lavender Vodka. Each spirit is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a smooth, balanced, and flavorful experience. The HMB Gin, in particular, stands out for its use of botanicals sourced from local San Mateo County farms, giving it a distinct citrus and floral-forward profile. The HMB Lavender Vodka has also garnered acclaim, receiving Double Gold in the Crafts Spirits Competition. Visitors can sample these award-winning spirits through guided tastings, where they'll learn about the nuances of each expression and the inspiration behind its creation. Beyond the spirits themselves, Half Moon Bay Distillery offers a range of engaging experiences for visitors. Distillery tours provide an in-depth look at the distilling process, from the milling of the grains to the bottling of the final product. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the history of distilling, the science behind the craft, and the unique challenges and rewards of operating a small-batch distillery. For those looking to further enhance their cocktail skills, the distillery also hosts cocktail-making classes, where participants can learn to create classic and innovative drinks using the distillery's spirits. Half Moon Bay Distillery is more than just a place to sample and purchase spirits; it's a community hub that celebrates the spirit of collaboration and creativity. The distillery regularly hosts events featuring local musicians, artists, and food vendors, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all. Owner Jamie Baddour also helped coordinate the Harvard Neighborhood Market, which brings local vendors from all over Half Moon Bay every 2nd Saturday of the month on the 100 block of Harvard Avenue. This commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community is at the heart of the distillery's mission. The history of Half Moon Bay and the surrounding coast is deeply intertwined with the story of Prohibition and the clandestine world of bootlegging. During the 1920s and early 1930s, Half Moon Bay's secluded coves and fog-shrouded coastline made it an ideal location for rum-runners to smuggle illegal liquor into the San Francisco Bay Area. While Half Moon Bay Distillery is a fully legal and licensed operation, it pays homage to this colorful past through its commitment to craftsmanship and its celebration of the local community. Visiting Half Moon Bay Distillery is an opportunity to not only taste exceptional spirits but also to connect with the rich history and vibrant culture of the California coast. Whether you're a seasoned spirit connoisseur or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, Half Moon Bay Distillery offers something for everyone. From the warm hospitality of the staff to the exceptional quality of the spirits, a visit to this coastal distillery is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you plan your visit to Half Moon Bay, be sure to explore the other attractions that this charming coastal town has to offer. Take a stroll along the Half Moon Bay State Beach, hike the scenic Coastal Trail, or visit the historic Pillar Point Harbor. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant community, Half Moon Bay is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway, an adventurous exploration, or a taste of local culture, Half Moon Bay has something to offer every traveler. And with its commitment to quality, community, and sustainability, Half Moon Bay Distillery is a shining example of the spirit of this unique and unforgettable destination.

Popular Experiences near Half Moon Bay Distillery

Popular Hotels near Half Moon Bay Distillery

Select Currency