Popular Activities

Top 10 Activities to Enjoy in Half Moon Bay

There are so many activities you can enjoy in Half Moon Bay. Just one visit to this charming city on the Pacific coast will leave you impressed for years to come. It offers a wide range of options to suit every taste, whether you are looking for a secluded and peaceful vacation or an active experience with sports and adventures. 

Here, you can choose from slow hiking or extreme surfing. It all depends on your preferences and expectations for your trip. Below, you will learn more about the 10 most popular activities that tourists resort to, so that you can choose the ones that suit you best.

1. Stroll Along the Scenic Half Moon Bay Beaches

Since Half Moon Bay is a coastal location, its numerous beaches are the first thing you’ll notice. The Bay State Beach is a collection of small beaches that stretch along the shoreline.

One of the most popular places is Francis Beach. It is a wide sandy beach with numerous picnic and relaxation areas. You can stroll along it or sunbathe during the warmer months. Venice Beach is another famous beach in the bay. It is located close to the center and has all the amenities for relaxing with friends or family.

No matter what season you come to Half Moon Bay, its beaches are almost always available for a walk. You can watch the waves, admire the sunrise or sunset, or just enjoy the unique scenery.

2. Explore the Famous Mavericks Beach and Its Surfing Culture

Being the most famous beach in the area, Mavericks Beach is undoubtedly one of the top 10 activities to enjoy in Half Moon Bay. Its history dates back to 1967 when it was first opened to surfers.

Located near Pillar Point Harbor, the beach is the largest surf break in the area. Although the beach itself is small and secluded, it has attracted the best surfers from around the world for decades. The waves here can reach 60 feet, which opens up unlimited opportunities for professionals who want to conquer extreme heights.

If you are not a surfer, this beach is still worth visiting. You can watch the surfers, get an impression of the towering waves, and see the popular place with your own eyes.

3. Hike the Gorgeous Coastal Trails

Half Moon Bay offers all the opportunities for exciting walks along the ocean coast. The trails here lead along the cliffs and tall sequoias and fascinate with the picturesque landscapes that open with every step.

Coastside Trail is one of the most popular routes in the region. It stretches along the ocean for about 3 kilometers. Therefore, you can master it in 1-2 hours, regardless of whether you are an experienced tourist or a beginner.

While walking, you can see unique birds and go down to any of the beaches. Hiking in Half Moon Bay allows you to combine moderate sports activity with contemplation of enchanting views.

4. Visit the Pigeon Point Lighthouse for Stunning Views

If you don’t mind taking a short trip to see one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States, this is the option for you. Pigeon Point is a state park surrounding the lighthouse. It is located about 20 miles from the bay and offers stunning scenery along with historical exploration.

The Pigeon Point Lighthouse stands at about 115 feet tall. It is surrounded by rocky hills and tide pools. Here, you can observe wildlife, see native birds and animals, and witness the migration of gray whales. This place has several activities to offer, including fabulous views that are hard to find anywhere else.

5. Discover the Local Art Galleries and Shops

In addition to outdoor recreation, Half Moon Bay also offers numerous art galleries and boutiques to visit. The historic main street is full of locations that are ideal for a cultural vacation.

If you are an art lover, here are some places to consider:

  • Coastal Repertory Theater. It has been operating since 1986 and allows you to enjoy both dramas and comedies.

  • Half Moon Bay Art Glass. It is a hot glass studio where you can not only see the products but also learn how to work with glass.

  • Mirada Art. It is a collective gallery where the products of local craftsmen are presented.

As for the shops, your choice is unlimited. You can buy souvenirs, clothes, decor, and even furniture. To get walking access to most places, you should stay in the central part of town. Nantucket Whale Inn is a modern hotel complex located in the heart of Half Moon Bay.

6. Enjoy a Day of Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards

Half Moon Bay is famous for its wine tasting rooms and wine bars, where you can try local drinks with a panoramic view of the ocean. Below are several of the most popular:

  • Barterra Winery;

  • Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyard;

  • La Nebbia Winery.

If you want to not only taste delicious wine but also have a good time, the annual Wine and Jazz Festival can be one of the extra activities to enjoy in Half Moon Bay. It has been held for several years in a row and allows you to combine wine tasting from the best wineries and listening to famous jazz performers at the same time. In addition, you have the opportunity to taste local dishes and immerse yourself in an unforgettable atmosphere.

7. Try Horseback Riding on the Beach

The Bayside Ranch offers both horseback riding and riding lessons. So whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced rider, Half Moon Bay has something for you. 

The ranch’s instructors will match you with a horse and teach you the basics of different riding styles. If you’re looking for a more adventurous option, you can join a horseback ride along the beach and enjoy the scenery in a unique format.

8. Go Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Pillar Point Harbor is ideal for sea kayaking and paddleboarding. You can combine the sport with watching seabirds and seals. In addition to kayaking itself, you can:

  • Rent kayaks or wetsuits.

  • Arrange a guided tour.

  • Visit one of the children's entertainment programs.

  • Go fishing.

  • Do yoga on paddleboards.

If you are already a professional, you can organize a program yourself. If not, the location has many options so that you can gain more skills and try something new.

9. Experience a Thrilling Shark Boat Tour

Unlike Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, California’s Half Moon Bay doesn’t offer organized shark tours. But that doesn’t mean you can’t see great white sharks or gray whales. 

At Pillar Point, you’ll find a marina with lots of colorful boats, and you can set off on a trip at any time. You can fish or watch wildlife. The choice is yours.

10. Explore the Half Moon Bay Farmers Market

The weekly farmers market completes the list of 10 activities to enjoy in Half Moon Bay. Here, you will find not only fresh local produce but also a variety of artisanal products.

You can walk through the market to buy some unique items or natural food, or you can support local craftsmen and farmers so that this wonderful city has new opportunities for development. Either way, you will get unforgettable emotions that will complement the impressions of the overall trip.

Making the Most of Your Half Moon Bay Visit

Half Moon Bay is such a diverse location that you will hardly have enough time to see it all in a few days. Start with a list of must-see places and move on. Make your choices based on your hobbies and expectations to get the best memories from your voyage.