Planning a trip to Northern California and looking for the best things to do in Half Moon Bay?! Keep on reading, as this guide will surely entice anyone to take a day trip from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay (or longer!)
Imagine scenic spring walks amongst wild flowers, all the locally grown produce you could want, golden sandy beaches beneath the bluffs, and fresh sea food for lunch. That, my friends, is Half Moon Bay in a nutshell.
Oh, plus lobster rolls, because no visit to HMB is complete without a visit to Sam’s Chowder House. And no one should leave Sam’s (or Half Moon Bay in general) off their California coast itinerary.
The first time we visited San Francisco (before moving to the Bay Area shortly there after), we had never even heard of this area. Let alone all the wonderful things to do in Half Moon Bay! We drove the 30 minutes to the coast after a firm recommendation, and found ourselves giddy with excitement as we were shoving our faces with lobster rolls and clam chowder.
I have to be honest, I really didn’t get the hype at first. But now? I kinda wanna move there, haha.
We’ve been back dozens of times since that initial visit (for pumpkin picking in the fall, to see the wild mustard fields in early spring, for easy hikes on the coastal trails, to pick sunflowers, etc). We love spending our weekend mornings strolling by the beach, coffee in hand, feet in the sand.
Who knew that a few years later we’d call the Bay Area our home, and be able to spend entire weekends in the cozy seaside village of Half Moon Bay (aka HMB)? We definitely didn’t see that coming!
So let’s get to it – I can’t wait to share all my favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay with you all! But first, answers to a few common questions:
Pre-Travel Guide to Half Moon Bay
Where exactly is Half Moon Bay?
This sleepy coastal city isn’t terribly far from anywhere in the San Francisco Bay Area. Although, always expect some traffic, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend.
- Palo Alto: 35 minutes (27 miles)
- San Francisco: 45 minutes (30 miles)
- Oakland: 50 minutes (40 miles)
- Santa Cruz: 60 minutes (50 miles)
- Napa Valley: 1 hour, 45 minutes (90 miles)
Because of it’s location, Half Moon Bay makes for the perfect day or weekend trip from San Francisco, Santa Cruz, or the SF Bay Peninsula.
extra happy because I just shoved a lobster roll in my mouth :p
BUT these estimated driving times are without traffic. And there’s sometimes a whole lot of it. This is primarily because there’s only one way in and one way out of Half Moon Bay, depending on where you’re coming from. And the streets get backed up, like really backed up.
Suffice it to say, plan to leave home for HMB on the earlier side to avoid any traffic mishaps. And to be on the safe side, just expect some traffic.
If you’ve never been here before, or don’t have access to easy transportation, I highly suggest you spend the night! Yes, you can most definitely knock a bunch of these things to do in Half Moon Bay off your HMB bucket list in one day, but why cram it all in?
Psst: Half Moon Bay actually spans along the Pacific Coast Highway from Montara to Pescadero (and inland), encompassing a bunch of small towns, but this post will be covering the coastal town of Half Moon Bay (and it’s parstituants) itself.
I have a separate post on my favorite spots between San Francisco and Santa Cruz which covers the entire area (including Pacifica, HMB, San Gregorio, and Pescadero — ohhh the artichoke bread).
If you’re looking to take a much longer trip down the PCH, check out all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway – yes, all 75 of them!
When To Visit Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is best visited during Spring and Fall. The summer tends to be extremely foggy, and winter calls for storms and high surf.
But the weather in Half Moon Bay tends to be temperamental at best. We’ve seen crazy clouds and fog at any time of year, as well as sunny, clear skies in the winter months. We even experienced 80 degree sun-filled days this past January! You kinda never know, so just plan for it all!
And then there’s the perpetual fog/marine layer. Thankfully, fog usually clears up by midday, but don’t be alarmed if the day turns out to be cloudy. The views are still glorious, I promise.
I always suggest bringing along a light jacket or sweater in order to deal with the crazy, constantly changing, California coastal weather. On a typical day, you’ll find temps between 58 and 67 degrees F, but remember, you’re basically at the beach, so it can get windy!
However, (of course there’s a however), it typically feels a lot warmer in the sun. So when my phone/car say it’s in the mid-60’s and the sun is shining, I usually don’t even need a jacket! We always dress incorrectly, so now we just keep layers in the car just in case.
Where to Sleep: Hotels in Half Moon Bay
There are a few accommodation options in Half Moon Bay, but I strongly suggest spending a night (or two) at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. With beautiful coastline views of the Pacific Ocean, cozy well-appointed rooms, and exceptional service, there’s a reason this high-end spot is on so many California bucket lists.
Read about my stay at the Ritz Carlton HMB here! Psst – it was everything and then some.
Yes, it’s a more pricy option, so consider spending an anniversary or special occasion here! And make sure you get the s’mores kit. Oh my god.
Other hotels include The Beach House (right next to Sam’s Chowder House and free breakfast!), Seal Cove Inn (refined B&B with a pool and hot tub near tidepools to explore), and Oceano Hotel & Spa HMB (waterfront with balconies and fireplaces). I’ve never stayed at any of these so can’t vouch for them personally, but they’re places on my list for next time!
Things to Do in Half Moon Bay
1. Go to the beach!
This is an obvious choice — can’t visit Half Moon Bay without spending at least a little bit of time on the beach! And thankfully, there’s a whole bunch of beaches in Half Moon Bay (my favorites over there!). Some that are better for dipping your toes into, others which are awesome for tide pooling, some that are great for sunbathing, others with dogs running around, and some with awesome walks from atop the bluffs. Really something for everyone.
As noted, there are SO MANY worthy beaches all along the coast, so make a day out of it and explore as many as you can (or do as we do and just keep going back 😉 ). A few of my favorites- Poplar, Mavericks, and Miramar.
Some of the more popular beaches include:
- Poplar: Popular is kinda your all-in-one beach. Parking’s pretty easy (expect to pay), it’s clean with lots of space, its fun for families with dogs, and a great spot for picnics. There’s also a great (easy) hiking trail up on the cliffs overlooking the beach with the best views! All in all, a great place for sunbathing!
- Montara State Beach: Beach is pretty sheltered, very scenic, and you can sometimes see horses here! Plus, the sunsets are legendary (when it’s not foggy or overcast of course) and there’s free parking! Super easy access as well, which I always appreciate!
- JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve: Come here for tide pooling! I had way more fun than I thought, and couldn’t believe just how many tiny hermit crabs and colorful sea anemone I saw! And the fact that I saw a bunch of starfish just hanging out below the surface really blew my mind! Just do your part and don’t remove any critters from their natural habitat. PLEASE and thank you! You’ll need to wait until low tide in order for the animals to be visible.
Read Next: The Best Beaches in Half Moon Bay (for tide pooling, sunbathing, and gorgeous coastal walks!)
The beaches of HMB are more for hanging out on. You’ll see groups of friends/families sitting on the sand having picnics. Bring a picnic blanket, some snacks, some beers, and you’re good to go.
Many visitors are surprised to hear this (especially out-of-towners), but you can’t really swim in HMB. Not only is the Pacific Ocean kinda too cold in Northern California (this isn’t Hawaii or San Diego!), but Half Moon Bay is known for strong rip and high tides. And all the surfers wear wetsuits, yes, year round.
Note that the beaches are located below some spectacular bluffs – beautiful, but that means you’ll need to trek down on rocky paths if you can’t find a set of steps nearby.
Visiting in winter? Look out on the horizon – you may be lucky to spot a few whales or pods of dolphins!
2. Visit the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
I don’t typically recommend visiting hotels when traveling (ok, I do like my fair share of bougie spots), but the Ritz Carlton is unbeatable. There’s absolutely no better way to spend a chilly evening/afternoon in the area. Head to the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay and enjoy their outdoor communal fire pits, perfect for roasting marshmallows and s’more making.
Or have a cocktail and watch the sunset at the Ocean Terrace Bar. Fancy a pile of Alaskan King Crab legs? You’re in luck – standard menu item on the Raw bar. (All more than acceptable options).
We once stayed the night at the Ritz and the views of the nearby golf course with the ocean in the distance more than made up for the (somewhat-significant-but-not-entirely-crazy) cost.
If you’re looking for a night of classy luxury away from the busy life of San Francisco, the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is your best best. Just promise you’ll send me some s’mores! 😉
READ NEXT: Our beachy-chic stay at the Ritz Carlton!
3. Go Kayaking/Canoeing
If you’re up for a little adventure, paddle around Pillar Point Harbor on an organized tour in a kayak, or rent a stand up paddle board- wet suit and safety instruction included. Something still on my Half Moon Bay bucket!
4. Stroll along Pillar Point Harbor
Colorful fishing boats. Charming waterfront eateries. Commercial fisherman selling super fresh crab straight from the boat!!! Pillar Point Harbor is one of California’s last working fishing harbors. So, if you’re longing for a taste of New England but can’t make it over the east coast anytime soon, check out Pillar Point Harbor.
Don’t miss the following:
- Maverick’s Surf Company: A chill surf shop full of surfboards, surfing clothes, and surf accessories. Easily one of the best surf shops in all of Northern California
- Crab boats on the harbor: This place is hopping every morning! Expect to find King salmon, halibut, petrale sole, and even live sea urchin. Catches depend on the season, but that just means you’ll always get something new! And there’s Dungeness crab November through May!
- Princeton Seafood Company: Order a basket of fish & chips and a hearty bowl of creamy clam chowder. They have the absolute freshest seafood out of all the places in Half Moon Bay, in my opinion.
- Joanne’s Ice Cream Cafe: Hot day? Or just want something sweet? Choose from tons of flavors, and note that the portions are HUGE! We love sharing a cup, sitting on a bench, and watching the boats.
5. Horse Back Riding at Sea Horse Ranch
See the beauty of the coastline while on a guided horse back ride. First time riding? Don’t fret. I went riding for the first time ever with them, and I felt very safe and comfortable with my helmet on! Hoping to go again soon! Definitely one of the most unique ways to enjoy the beach, and something I recommend to everyone looking for things to do in Half Moon Bay.
6. Have a Lobster Roll at Sam’s Chowder House
Yes, you’ll find this in the “where to eat” section below, but lobster rolls at Sam’s are my absolute favorite! So of course I had to include it as many times as I could!
We love to get the “naked” rolls (fresh lobster in butter) and sit outside on the patio in the sun overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s by far one of our favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay, and a place we’ve been gushing about (to just about everyone) for years!
And psst – there’s beach access directly behind Sam’s. Just walk to the left of the restaurant from the parking lot, go down the stairs, and voila – beach!
If you’re reading this and can’t get down to HMB but I have you craving a lobster roll, there’s usually a Sam’s Chowder Truck in Golden Gate Park. Shhhhhh!!!
7. Watch the Surfers at Mavericks Beach
THIS is the spot to watch surfers on the west coast, as the biggest, best, most perfectly insane waves can be found here. And some are even as massive as 60 feet high (when the conditions are right); absolutely incredible.
How do the waves get so large? Winter storms and underwater geography combine to crease some of the most dangerous waves… in the world. So, if you’re just getting started, let the pros ride these massive waves, and save your board for another beach.
There used to be an international surfing competition over here, but it’s been cancelled the past few years (due to the waves not being large enough). Hopefully it returns! If you’re super into the sport and local, make sure to keep tabs on when the Mavericks Challenge will happen.
Being one of the largest one-day invitational surf competitions in the word, it’s definitely a bucket list item for any surfer dude. During the international competition, 24 big-wave surfers are invited ride the waves at the legendary Mavericks surf break.
8. Half Moon Bay Coastside Farmer’s Market
HMB is full of charming farms and nurseries, so there’s no better place to check it all out than at the Farmer’s Market! You’ll find fruit jams, fresh pies, locally sourced coffee, and a plethora of locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Think strawberries in the spring, sweet cherry tomatoes in summer, and orange squash in the fall.
You can even chat with the farmers and growers to learn exactly when your produce was planted and picked!
The market occurs on Saturdays from May through December, from 9am-1pm. If you’re visiting on a different day, check out Andreotti’s Farms – I’m dying to go their to see the sunflower fields!
9. Segway Tours along the Coastal Trail
Probably my favorite way to get around! Segways are just so much better than walking, and way more fun! It’s takes a few minutes to get used to, but once you have it, you’ll never want to walk again!
10. Go Tide Pooling
I had no clue there was such fantastic tide pooling in Half Moon Bay until not too long ago! And now I’m hooked! While there’s lots of sea life along the coast, don’t miss these top two spots:
- JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
- Mavericks Beach
The JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a marine protected area, where you can see lots of different creatures, including starfish, crabs, barnacles, mussels, sea urchins, and more. Make sure you check the schedule for low tide – you won’t see anything (and I mean anything!) during high!
As it should be, JV Fitzgerald is a no-take area, which means you’re not allowed to take anything (and I mean anything, not even a shell). Let’s do our part to help preserve and protect the delicate creatures who call the tide pools their home. <3
At Mavericks Beach, there are a few species you’re actually allowed to take, but be careful to read the signs. Last time we went we saw tons and tons of sea anemones, plenty of hermit crabs, and even a few sea stars (which I still cannot believe). Such a cool experience so close to San Francisco.
11. Wander around Half Moon Bay Main Street
Check out the numerous galleries, independently owned shops, and quaint little restaurants. The street isn’t too long, but it’s a great place to stop for an hour or two to grab lunch or dinner in between activities or beach lounging.
12. Walk the Coastal Trail
The Half Moon Bay coastal trail is 3.5 miles of scenic beauty along the Pacific! You don’t have to walk the whole thing, so pick a spot to park and get moving.
We usually park at Poplar Beach, then choose a direction to walk in. Some of it’s paved, some of it’s trail, but no matter which way you go, you’re promised unparalleled views of the Pacific ocean. My favorite’s in the early spring when the wildflowers start to bloom, known in Half Moon Bay as the “sea of yellow”.
paved portion of the Coastal Trail near the Ritz Carlton – foggy but beautiful! 
Other times, we park at the Ritz Carlton which has free designated spots for Coastal Trail users (just tell them at the entrance). If you pick this way, you’ll walk past a few beautiful golf courses as well! Beware, it can get quite windy over here, especially in the cooler winter months.
13. Go Hiking
Just like in nearby Pacifica, there’s a whole bunch of hiking trails in Half Moon Bay! A few of my favorites:
- Pillar Point Bluff: I recently discovered this picturesque spot in Half Moon Bay and I’m kicking myself I didn’t make it here sooner. It’s got some of my favorite views in all of Half Moon Bay. And plus, it’s super dog friendly and you get to see an icon of HMB — the Pillar Point Air Force Base (which I swear looks like a giant golf ball from afar). The Pacific Ocean views are just too spectacular to miss. Be extra careful walking near the coast; don’t get too close to the cliffs, it’s a long, long way down.
- Purisima Creek Redwoods: Redwoods in the Bay Area?! Yup! Purisima offers 24 miles of trails through the redwoods for casual strolls or difficult hikes with gorgeous views of the Bay Area. I get you probably won’t hike all 24 (at least not on the same day), so thankfully there’s plenty of different trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
- Montara Mountain: A few miles north you’ll find Montara Mountain, which is a long uphill hike, but on clear days, provides some of the best views of the Pacific Coast. You can even see the Golden Gate Bridge from a number of stops. Definitely on my San Francisco Bucket List for sure.
14. Play Golf
Okay, so I know this isn’t for everyone, but if you’re an avid golfer, just know there’s a few courses here in HMB! By far the most special? The Half Moon Bay Golf Links. There’s 2 18-hole golf courses, a hotel (The Ritz Carlton, anyone?!), and a restaurant with bocce ball courts.
Talk about oceanfront, championship golf right here in the Bay Area. I’ve gotta get my husband a tee time! The green fees are pretty high though, at around $250 in peak season (they do go lower, so just keep on checking!). I recommend spending the night and making a weekend out of it.
15. Watch the Sunset
There’s absolutely nothing better than witnessing a beautiful sunset with the ones you love. And the one’s in Half Moon Bay are some of the best I’ve seen in the Bay Area. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Half Moon Bay on a clear day, MAKE SURE you stay to watch the sunset. Because there’ll be nothing to see if it’s a foggy/cloudy day. You’ve been warned, haha.
I especially love watching the sun go down near the Pillar Point Harbor — it’s absolutely stunning! And you’ll frequently see herons and other birds. Head to the fishing pier near Barbara’s Fishtrap (right near the harbor) and I promise you’ll wanna stay forever.
Seasonal Things to do in Half Moon Bay
Sure, Half Moon Bay is wonderful anytime of year. BUT if you happen to find yourself visiting during one of the months below, make sure to check out the seasonal activities! Half Moon Bay is SO MUCH FUN in the fall, and I keep finding myself going back year after year!
16. Wild Mustard Fields in February and March
You’re driving by and then BAM — huge fields of tiny yellow flowers. Those are the wild mustard fields, popping up every February in HMB. And you can freely wander throughout the fields and even make your own paths, unlike other flower fields.
Why? Because the wild mustard is actually a weed — a very pretty one indeed! Take lots of photos, have a picnic, and have fun frolicking! One of my favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay in early summer.
Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About the Wild Mustard Fields in Half Moon Bay!
The farm recently started letting visitors in with paid admission, after they’ve had problems with people unfortunately trespassing in the past for photos. Lots more info here!
17. Go Crabbing/Buy Fresh Crabs (November through June)
The last time we were tide pooling at Mavericks, people were filling up huge orange buckets of rock and Dungeness crab! Or at least I think they were, haha. Now, I don’t really know how to do this, but if that’s your thing, go for it!
If spending hours searching the tide pools for crabs really isn’t your thing (guilty — I wanna eat my crab not find it), you can visit the crab boats at Pillar Point Harbor and buy some fresh ones. Head over to Johnson Pier from November through June.
It’s THE place to get fresh fish and crab right off the boat from local fishermen! Still moving and alive. So wild and I love it! And for pretty good prices no less! Support your local fishermen! Look for the whiteboards near the ramp and you’ll see what fish is being sold.
Can’t find what you’re looking for on the boats? Buy some over at Princeton Seafood Market, only a few minutes walk from the pier.
You’ll probably also see and hear some sea lions over here!
18. Pink flowers in Montara (April through June)
Looking for one of the most unique things to do in Half Moon Bay? Go find the pink flower bloom at Montara Beach. You may have already seen these beautiful fuchsia blooms on IG, but now its time for you to go! Getting here is super easy, just park at Montara State Beach, walk down the steps, walk towards the southern part of the beach, and climb up the narrow trail on the bluffs.
It’ll probably be foggy (the weather is super temperamental this time of year), but those pink flowers will really add a lot of color to your photos. Psst — I’m not sure exactly what they’re called (some people say they’re Pink sea fig flowers, others say rodondo creepers, ice plants, or dew-flowers), but everyone I know calls them the pink magic carpet Montara flowers!
They bloom every year, and are such a sight to see! I already wanna go back next year and take more photos, preferably in a pink dress with a hat!
19. U-Pick Sunflower Fields in September and October
Always wanted to wander throughout a bright yellow sunflower field? Now’s your chance — at Andreotti Family Farms! This is one of my favorite fall activities in Half Moon Bay, and I can guarantee you’ll have oh so much fun. Plan to come in September or October before all the sunflowers have been picked through.
All my sunflower field tips here!
20. Pumpkin Picking in Half Moon Bay
Another great fall activity, and one of our favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay come October! You’ll find pumpkins of all different colors, shapes, and sizes, and I loved just reveling in the fall spirit for a while! There’s plenty of pumpkin patches to visit, but my favorites are easily Bob’s Vegetable Stand and Arata’s Pumpkin Farm.
Find all my favorite pumpkin patches and farms here (with of course tons of photos and tips!).
21. Lemo’s Farms for some Fall Fun
If you have young kids, or are undoubtedly a kid at heart, you’ll enjoy the frozen custard and other sweet treats. It gets super crowded during the fall months, but worth it at least once. The perfect spot to pick out your pumpkin!
We went with my then-2-year-old nephew a few years ago and it was so much fun! There’s even a small petting zoo for the kids! AND corn stalks to wander through!
Other Things to do Near Half Moon Bay
22. Take a Side Trip to Pescadero
Just about 30 minutes south of Half Moon Bay, you’ll find Pescadero, a charming little town with world-renowned artichoke bread. Make a stop at Pie Ranch to pick up some fresh produce and a seasonal pie as well. Pigeon Point Lighthouse (my favorite and where I take ALL visitors) and more tide pools are nearby too!
READ NEXT: All Favorite Stops in Pescadero (+ bonus Davenport!)
23. Watch the Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Park
If you’re visiting the area from December – March, you’re in for a treat. Every year during these months, a large colony of elephant seals assemble on the beach to molt and give birth. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some pups! Do note this access to see the elephant seals requires a moderate hike, so bring your sneakers and leave your sandals in the car.
Places to Eat in Half Moon Bay
24. SNACKS + DRINKS
- Moonside Bakery and Cafe: How can you go wrong with a little European-style bakery with homemade treats? A lovely neighborhood spot with tons of pastries, pies, cakes, cookies, danishes and deserts. Basically a sugar sensory overload. Not that I’m complaining!
- Half Moon Bay Bakery: A no frills bakery serving tons of different cookies, including black and white cookies, double chocolate mint, peanut butter, and extra large chocolate chip. Think I need to get back here sooner than later… :p
- Half Moon Bay Brewing Company: With handcrafted beer brewed right on site and a great view of the harbor, it’s safe to say that you’ll have more than a good time here. Come for the beer, stay for the band! Even better, come during happy hour- 11am-6pm during the week! Bring Fido, because the outdoor patio is dog friendly with complimentary dog treats!
25. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, + DINNER
- Sams Chowder House: Known for it’s lobster roll and clam chowder, of course. The views are phenomenal, so be sure to plan some time here to kick back and relax with some drinks on their outdoor patio. Our all time favorite on the coast, as long as it’s a clear, warm day!
- Barbara’s Fish Trap: Promise me you’ll get the Dungeness Crab Sandwich. My husband’s been dying to try it. Cash only with ATM nearby. Come here to watch the sunset over the water.
- It’s Italia: Rustic italian, good wine selection, speciality pizzas, and delicious bread. I tried an Italian soda for the first time, and let’s just say it’s one of my new staples when dining out. My homemade pesto chicken sandwich was pretty tasty too.
- Cafe Classique: They bake all their own items, including breads, muffins, and bagels. Go for a meal or a muffin- you won’t be disappointed. Sit on the outside patio – you’ll get great views of the harbor. Cool FYI – they open up at 4am to serve the local fisherman. A TRUE local gem. Edit: Permanently Closed.
- 3-Zero Cafe: Located at the Half Moon Bay Airport, this great little diner is filled with toy replicas of model airplanes and lots of aviation paraphernalia. Be prepared to wait about 15-20 minutes, the place gets busy on the weekend! FYI- The banana walnut waffle was top notch. Edit: Permanently Closed.
- Pasta Moon: Contemporary, modern Italian, known for it’s house made pasta and butternut squash ravioli. Better save room for dessert-wouldn’t wanna miss the tiramisu or the meyer lemon parfait. Sounds great a like fall meal to me.
- Navio at The Ritz Carlton: Oh my, what can I say about this first-class dining experience? If you’re looking for a romantic place to spend a birthday or anniversary, Navio is the way to go. With exceptional seafood dishes and even better service, you’ll be glad you chose the Ritz Carlton. Plus, the stunning views of the California coastline don’t hurt either. 😉 I’ve heard the buffet breakfast (albeit pricey), is worth trying at least once as well. You can’t really go wrong with the Ritz Carlton.
Hope you enjoyed my personal favorite things to do in Half Moon Bay! Have you been before? What are you adding to your HMB bucket list?!
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