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Ready for a getaway?
Growing up in the Bay Area, Half Moon Bay was always a day destination for my family + friends — whether for a beach day, a waterfront lunch, visit to the pumpkin patch, or a walk along the Coastside trail. It also happens to be my husband’s hometown, which gives us a reason to visit whenever we can.
Why go?
- Offering beaches, surfing, local food + wine, stunning stays, and outdoor activities Half Moon Bay’s small town charm makes for a great destination year-round.
- Welcome in the fall season at the 51st Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival, happening October 14-15. Kick off the autumnal celebrations with costume contests, live music, festival fare, and local sips.
- Bookmark this 3-day family vacation guide and this travel guide for more recommendations.
Act like a local:
- Coffee: Start your morning with a walk along Main Street and a coffee + pastry from Cafe Society. I recommend window shopping at some of my favorite spots: Hometown Mercantile, Crow’s Nest, and Abode.
- Food: Every time I’m home, I make Barbara’s Fish Trap in the Harbor one of my first stops. The Fish & Chips are my favorite ever (pro tip: try them with a side of ranch). I prefer to order from the to-go window and either eat on the beach or at one of the picnic tables lining the marina.
- Drink: A margarita from The Cantina at San Benito House. The Cantina features craft beer, tequila + Mexican fare in one of the oldest buildings in Half Moon Bay.
- Surf: HMB is known for its big wave surfing. Depending on how swell your surf skills are, try your hand at surfing Montara Beach, Miramar Beach, or Maverick’s.
- Wine: Grab a glass + a snack while you soak up Main Street’s charm at Half Moon Bay Wine & Cheese, Barterra Winery, or Vinoteca. I recommend a wine flight for the best tasting experience.
- Explore: Hike or bike Devil’s Slide or walk the Coastside Trail.
- Wellness: Unwind from your travels with a trip to the Spa at the Ritz and finish with a drink while you take in the coastal views.
Completely rebuild + decorated by a famous San Francisco architect, this rental home sits a few walking blocks to great restaurants, a winery + distillery, steps away from scenic hikes, and is the closest house to world-famous surf beach Maverick’s.
Photo via Airbnb
Where to stay:
- Vrbo: Seaside Haven: Modern Retreat with Breathtaking Views and Beachside Charm (~$540/night)*
- Airbnb: Beautiful Beach House steps from the Beach (~$550/night)
- Splurge hotel: The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay (~$800/night)
- Save hotel: Oceano Hotel & Spa (~$279/night)
Pro tip: Cue up Half Moon Bay by the San Francisco pop rock band Train as you’re driving along Highway 1 and you’ll feel right at home on the California coast.
