Wild mustard plants grow almost everywhere! 4th of July HALF MOON BAY LIONS Pancake Breakfast. All rights reserved. The beach is an excellent place to walk while watching people catch waves. He lives in San Francisco with his wife and son. A great family getaway awaits in Half Moon Bay. The historic home now serves as a bed & breakfast hosting guests in its antique-filled rooms. The southernmost beach is better for families and to just relax with views in all directions; including Half Moon Bay to the west, Pacifica to the east, Pillar Point Harbor to the south, and a good view of that lighthouse out there too, plus I could see Princeton across the water. Youll only spot them from December to March, during their mating season, but the colony that arrives here is the largest on earth, with up to 10,000 making their way to the coastline to give birth. They surfed an inside spot in the winter of 1961 - not the outer reef; 2. Miramar Beach is located along the shore of the bay opposite the peninsula. It is called Half Moon Bay because of its crescent shape. When traveling to Half Moon Bay, its always a good idea to check out our businesses in the downtown area. Shortly afterward, it became the Bank of Italy, the predecessor to Bank of America founded by San Jose-born A.P. Wake up in the morning for a scenic jog along the California Coastal Trail, or spend an evening going for a leisurely stroll to watch the waterfront sunset. Halfmoon Bay Heritage General Store is a community gathering spot with a post office, liquor sales outlet and great ice cream. Some rooms boast uninterrupted ocean views from private balconies in addition to modern amenities for an unforgettable stay. For the latest news on the area, visit www.visithalfmoonbay.org/blog, join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/visithalfmoonbay and follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/visithmb and check us out on YouTube www.youtube.com/visithmb. 527 Main Street, Downtown Half Moon Bay. Spirits include gin, vodka, whiskey and brandy, and they also have a shop where you can purchase a bottle of your favourite as a souvenir before you leave. From chic contemporary boutiques to a delightful 100-year-old farm supply emporium with live bunnies, you'll enjoy a wide variety of locally-owned stores. Miramontes dubbed his new land Rancho San Benito, but, after the Gold Rush brought hordes of fortune seekers west, newcomers began referring to the village as Spanishtown. Mavericks: Interesting facts about California's big wave spot With iconic lighthouses, charming inns, and fresh seafood straight from the docks, the Half Moon Bay Coastside often draws comparisons to the quaint seaside towns of New England. Multiple people were killed in two related shootings Monday at a mushroom farm and a trucking firm in a . 12341 San Mateo Rd // +1 650-726-9463. Of course you can surf, ski, and bike here, but did you know you can try these adventures in California? With quaint shops, delicious restaurants and live music, youre sure to find something worth checking out while youre there. La Nebbia Winery is one of the best wineries in Half Moon Bay. Mavericks is arguably one of the best beaches in Half Moon Bay but is only popular with one type of person, surfers. The James Johnston House (c1855) This unusual saltbox-style home, known as The White House of Half Moon Bay, was built by wealthy Half Moon Bay pioneer James Johnston. The property was renovated in 2010 with a new color scheme of soft greys, blues, and slate hues that complement the stunning Pacific Ocean vistas. This site uses cookies to enhanceyour experience. Its also a great place to see seals and whales. For thousands of years, the land was inhabited by Ohlone Indians. You can even walk . 8 Best Things To do In Half Moon Bay, California - Foodie Flashpacker Grab your board and head out to catch the days surf or search the tide pools to see what marine life was left behind with the tide. The Visit Half Moon Bay web site is jointly funded and maintained by the Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, the Half Moon Bay Business Improvement District, and the Half Moon Bay Downtown Association. The singletrack Craig Britton Trail (formerly called the Soda Gulch Trail) winds around a lush ravine high above a creek, giving you an enjoyable ride. 11 best San Francisco beaches that tourists don't know about - SFGATE Aside from the sweeping beach and ocean views along the entire trail, you might be lucky enough to spot the majestic grey whales that the trail is named after splashing about in the sea. There youll find creative projects and fun events for all. Take a fresh breath at the Purisima Creek Redwoods, Hike or Bike the California Coastal Trail, Shop & Eat on Main Street in Half Moon Bay. Yet, its not just visitors, Please note: This is an older article that was. 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 . Across the street, the wonderfully atmospheric San Benito House (356 Main St.) has served as a restaurant, inn, and bar for over a hundred years with wood plank floors, taxidermy-adorned walls, and vintage saloon lamps. The drive is less than eight miles one way but full of natural sights. The tour takes you to observation platforms overlooking Cove Beach to see these oversized seals showing you how a lazy beach day is actually done. The preserve is perfect for outdoor types, with over 25 miles (40 km) of trails, although you can go to admire the trees. Indulge in the local craft brew scene with restaurants like Half Moon Bay Brewing, which cultivates a community of beer lovers. Although you can head here and try to spot them, to do the event full justice by taking a guided tour. Over the last century, many of Californias famous redwoods were cut down, and preserves such as Purisima Creek were established to protect the remaining forests. Situated on a cliff with a full spa overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is surrounded by two championship golf courses. She has travelled to almost 30 countries, most recently Cuba and Sri Lanka. (which uses the island as a port of call for its cruise ships). Now a pedestrian trail, this former highway was frequently closed due to rockslides and other accidents confirming its name. Afterward, drive a few miles north on Highway 1 to . Housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services account for over two-thirds of total expenses. Discover With immense scenery and small-town charm, the Half Moon Bay Coastside offers visitors a broad range of experiences. The beach is entirely protected from ocean waves by two large jetties. Take a stroll then enjoy lunch at Sams before hitting the water at Mavericks or other nearby surfing spots. Kelly Chamberlin Rent a boat from the Hall Moon Bay Kayak Company to paddle the bay, where friendly sea otters are never shy to approach your boat to say hello. Whale watching tours are popular from March to May when pods of gray whales migrate near the shore en route to Alaska. If youre looking for some ultra-luxe pampering after a day exploring the coast, the grandRitz-Carlton, Half Moon Baycommands a bluff overlooking the ocean. Lemos Farm is particularly great for the former, as a fully functioning farm with pigs, goats, chickens and bunny rabbits, which kids can pet and play with. For visitor information, the Visitor Center is located at 235MainStreet, HalfMoonBay,CA94019 4th of July HALF MOON BAY LIONS Pancake Breakfast, charming storefronts brimming with locally owned shops and eateries, Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Ditch the supermarket for these charming, country patches. Bring out your inner naturalist when exploring the JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. The trails outstanding coastline can be enjoyed year-round. They often offer sample flights containing three or four beer samples in case you cant decide on one. In the 1800s, Mexican settlers and American pioneers would traverse a simple wooden bridge that spanned Pilarcitos Creek. At the corner of Kelly Avenue and Johnston Street, its hard to miss the Simmons House (751 Kelly Ave.), an ornate home built for William Adam Simmons, an early Anglo American resident of Spanishtown who operated a dual business behind his home. If visiting with small kids, be aware that the waves here can be strong, so stick close to the shallow tidal pools. Experience a unique SoCal sunset from the saddle of your gentle steed, awaiting your next command to continue the journey. The school was founded by the Johnston family for their children and neighbors. Half Moon Bay has multiple stunning golf courses on the coastal cliffs, with views of the Pacific Ocean. From the historic, to the adventurous, to a cool slice of naturethe best way to appreciate your destination is to get out there and see it for yourself. Take a stroll along the cliffs to visit and youll find a bookshop and visitors centre, plus you can even stay the night. Things to do in Half Moon Bay include shopping opportunities at Downtown Half Moon Bay, being home to many unique shops, restaurants, wineries, and more. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a luxury beachfront resort, offering breathtaking ocean views while encompassing a sense of coastal elegance within the California enclave. Both coasts have their own beauty, and Half Moon Bay tends to be a bit more expensive than New York. Its all copyrighted. If youre a golf enthusiast or pro, these two are not worth missing, and afterwards, you can grab a cold drink at the Ritz Carltons famous bar and gaze through floor-to-ceiling windows at ocean views. United States Copyright, 365 Atlanta Family, LLC, View our Privacy Policy | Subscribe to our Newsletter | Contact Site Owner | View Terms & Conditions | About Us, Bryan Shelmon is a travel writer, living the digital nomad lifestyle as of the past few years to, Latest posts by Bryan Shelmon, Staff Writer, 23+ of the Best Things To Do in Massachusetts, 23+ Things To Do in Rochester NY (and the Finger Lakes), 21 Best Things To Do in Alaska You Cant Miss, 11+ Best Things To Do in Santa Monica, California, 30 Best Things To Do in Palm Springs, California, Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, 22 Things To Do In Newport Beach You Cant Miss, 17 Things To Do In Pismo Beach For Fun In The Sun, 23 Of The Best Lake Tahoe Camping Destinations, 47 Phenomenal Things To Do In San Francisco, CA, 19 Things To Do In Santa Barbara You Cant Miss, 37+ Awesome Things To Do in San Jose, California. Things To Do In Half Moon Bay. The California Coastal Trail is a dream destination for walking, but if you are looking for an adrenaline stop, just head for the beach and attempt to catch the waves. Join a guide on a 90-minute gallop through the sandy coastal equestrian trails. It's located on the waterfront in Halfmoon Bay near the government wharf (from which you can see Anchor Rock, Whale Island and Coopers Green). As you kayak across the bay, watch for the sea lions and seals that populate the area. Live in the moment by staring into the Pacific Ocean from the shores of Bean Hollow State Park as the cool waters wash against your feet. Despite the obvious environmental damage that has been done to this area, there are still a few nice redwoods worthy of a short detour off of the Purisima Creek Trail. Outdoor team building activities, Indoors or Outdoors, Coastside lodging venues offer great options for location and decor. Whether its your first time riding a horse, or youre a self-proclaimed cowgirl at heart, Sea Horse Ranch has well-trained horses to accommodate all skill levels. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. Police tape is placed near the scene of a shooting, Jan. 23, 2023, in Half Moon Bay, Calif. Half Moon Bay developed a new personality during The Prohibition Era (1920 1933) because the hidden ocean coves and thick fog provided the ideal setting for rumrunners from Canada and for local moonshiners. Half Moon Bay Bucket List: 30 Things to Do Along California's Coastside