Half Moon Bay surfers by Vito Palmisano — Photo courtesy of Vito Palmisano
Half Moon Bay, made famous for its renowned Mavericks surfing contest, golf links and annual pumpkin contest, has something to offer the curious traveler every day of the year.
Driving south from San Francisco, your adventure starts before you even reach Half Moon Bay. Just south of the city of Pacifica, make time to stop at Devil’s Slide Trail, the only area on majestic Highway One that is closed to cars. The 1.3-mile Devil’s Slide Trail offers access to dramatic views of California’s coastline. Bring binoculars because Devil's Slide offers some of the best chances to spot harbor seals, bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, northern elephant seals and whales.
Aerial view of Devil's Slide by Vito Palmisano — Photo courtesy of Vito Palmisano
The charming coastal town of Half Moon Bay is designed to pull visitors from their cars. Offering world-class cuisine, romantic weekend or family getaways at fantastic lodgings, and an eclectic mix of shopping on historic Main Street, Half Moon Bay is a delightful venture no traveler will regret.
HMB Main Street by Kevin Henney — Photo courtesy of Kevin Henney
The hustle-and-bustle energy of San Francisco will melt away with a quiet stroll down Main Street. Enjoy the country charm and rustic atmosphere of Half Moon Bay Feed and Fuel, a mainstay on Main Street since 1911 and the best spot to feel like a local. Multiple restaurants and cafes will tempt you on your walk, like Pasta Moon, locally- and woman-owned, tucked in on the quieter end of Main Street. Sam's Chowder House is as popular as it is packed, and the "brews and views" at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company are outstanding.
If you'd rather bring your dinner home, stroll down to Pillar Point Harbor, home to one of California's last working harbors where you can buy just-caught fresh fish and crab.
Renting a bike is a great way to see all of Half Moon Bay — Photo courtesy of Visit Half Moon Bay
As the sun sets magnificently on the Pacific, choose from a wide selection of lodgings, from spoil-yourself-silly-luxury at the Half Moon Bay Ritz Carlton (the 90-second video on their website complete with Scottish bagpipes says it all) or the comfy and friendly Half Moon Bay Inn. An extra day would give the more adventurous in your group a shot at kayaking at Half Moon Bay Kayak or renting horses from Sea Horse Ranch.
If you're ready for an afternoon, an evening or even several days of rest from the bustle of the city, head to Half Moon Bay for some full days of California fun.