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Coastside History Museum: Unveiling Half Moon Bay's Past

Explore Half Moon Bay's vibrant past at the Coastside History Museum, featuring engaging exhibits, local artifacts, and a historic jail.

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The Coastside History Museum in Half Moon Bay offers a captivating glimpse into the area's rich history, from its indigenous Ohlone roots to its agricultural and fishing industries. Located in a renovated barn behind the old city jail, the museum features exhibits, artifacts, and a native plant garden, providing an engaging experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Coastside History Museum

  • Saturday 11 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekends to explore both the Coastside History Museum and the historic 1919 jail.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special events, guest speakers, and themed exhibits.
  • Explore the native plant garden to learn about the plants used by the Ohlone people.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Coastside History Museum is located at 505 Johnston Street, one block east of Main Street in downtown Half Moon Bay. From Main Street, walk east on Mill Street or Kelly Avenue, then turn north onto Johnston Street. The museum will be on your left. There is ample 12-hour parking along Johnston Street.

  • Public Transport

    SamTrans buses serve the Coastside with several routes. From the SamTrans bus stop on Main Street, walk east on Mill Street or Kelly Avenue, then turn north onto Johnston Street. The museum will be on your left. SamTrans Ride Plus is an on-demand, curb-to-curb public transit service in Half Moon Bay. A ride costs $2.25, the same price as a bus ride.

  • Driving

    From Highway 1, turn east onto Kelly Avenue into Half Moon Bay. Turn left onto Johnston Street. The museum is located at 505 Johnston Street. There is ample 12-hour parking along Johnston Street and an additional parking lot on the corner of Johnston and Mill Streets. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Coastside History Museum

Discover the captivating history of Half Moon Bay and the San Mateo Coastside at the Coastside History Museum. This museum brings the past to life through exhibits and artifacts that reflect the region's diverse cultures and eras. Learn about the indigenous Ohlone people, the impact of Spanish and Mexican settlers, the area's agricultural heritage, and the role of the railroad. The museum is housed in a renovated barn, which once served as the Sheriff's vehicle garage, located behind the historic 1919 city jail. The jail itself is part of the museum complex and offers a glimpse into the past with its original jail cells. Visitors can even take 'cell-fies' inside. Opened in June 2023, the museum features a blend of new and older exhibits, along with additional artifacts from the Half Moon Bay History Association's collection. A native plant garden between the jail and the museum showcases plants used by the Ohlone people, promoting the Coastside's natural habitat. The museum is ADA accessible.

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