Half moon bay, San Francisco Peninsula Travel Guide

Discover Half Moon Bay: A charming California coastal town with stunning beaches, rich history, and endless outdoor adventures.

Half Moon Bay, California, is a captivating coastal city south of San Francisco, known for its beautiful beaches, historic downtown, and outdoor activities. From surfing at Mavericks to exploring tide pools, it offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.

A brief summary to Half moon bay

Half Moon Bay, California, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Half moon bay.

Explore Half Moon Bay's historic Main Street for unique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants.
Visit Fitzgerald Marine Reserve during low tide to discover fascinating tide pools and marine life.
Hike or bike along the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail for breathtaking ocean views.
Enjoy fresh seafood at Pillar Point Harbor and watch the local fishermen at work.
Check the local event calendar for festivals, farmers' markets, and other community events.

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Explore Half moon bay on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Half moon bay, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Main Street, many attractions are within walking distance. The downtown area is easily walkable, with shops, restaurants, and historical sites close by. The Half Moon Bay History Museum is a short walk from the Main Street Bridge.
Public Transport

SamTrans buses serve Half Moon Bay, connecting it to other parts of the Bay Area. Route 117 and 294 provide service to Half Moon Bay from various locations. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.25.
Taxi/Ride-share

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Half Moon Bay. A short trip within Half Moon Bay using a ride-sharing service typically costs between $15-$30, but prices may vary. Taxi services are also available, with fares starting at $3.00 plus $0.30 for each additional 1/10 mile.
Driving

Half Moon Bay is accessible via Highway 1. Parking is available on Main Street and in public lots. Parking on Johnston Street and Purissima Street offers 12-hour parking. Parking at Half Moon Bay State Beach costs $10 per day. Electric vehicle charging stations are available at several locations downtown.

Discover more about Half moon bay

Half Moon Bay, a crescent-shaped coastal paradise in San Mateo County, California, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and outdoor adventure. Originally inhabited by the Quiroste people, the area transitioned through Spanish and Mexican rule before becoming a diverse community of settlers. First known as San Benito and then Spanishtown, it was officially renamed Half Moon Bay in 1874.The city's history is rich with agriculture, fishing, and even a touch of intrigue during Prohibition, when its foggy coastline became a haven for rum runners. Today, Half Moon Bay retains its small-town charm with a historic Main Street boasting unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from the famous big-wave surf spot at Mavericks Beach to the tranquil tide pools of Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Miles of sandy beaches invite sunbathing, picnicking, and whale watching, while numerous hiking trails wind through coastal bluffs and redwood forests. Pillar Point Harbor offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying fresh seafood.Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of California's coastal history, Half Moon Bay provides an unforgettable escape.