California Day Trips

Half Moon Bay Day Trip Weekend Getaway

 
Half Moon Bay is a scenic area of the California coast is about a one hour drive from San Francisco. Half Moon Bay is a popular day trip or weekend getaway offering visitors art galleries, small restaurants and shops in its small downtown. Lodging ranges from inexpensive motels and bed and breakfast to the 5 star Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay.

Just outside of town are farms growing vegetables and pumpkins which Half Moon Bay is famous for. Every year Half Moon Bay hosts a Pumpkin Festival with arts and crafts from over 250 artists.Half Moon Bay has several beaches, Moss Beach to the north, Martin’s Beach and San Gregorio State Beach to the south.

Half Moon Bay is home to the world-famous surfing spot Mavericks, located one-half mile off the coast by Pillar Point Harbor. Mavericks is considered to be one of the most challenging surfing areas in the world, with waves reaching up to fifty feet high during the winter. Once a year “The Maverick’s Big Wave Invitational,” contest is held. Swells at Mavericks typically have to reach 30-40 feet in order for the contest to take place.

Half Moon Bay State Beach has four miles of sandy beach just south of town. Sunbathing, fishing, picnicking and camping are popular activities. The Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center is open Saturdays and Sundays and entrance is free. Dogs are only permitted in the campground, in the day-use picnic areas, and on the Coastal Trail, provided they are on a leash. The ocean water is cold at all times of the year so unless you have a wetsuit plan on taking a just a quick dip.
Half Moon Bay California
Half Moon Bay California

Things to do:
Pigeon Point Lighthouse is about 20 miles south of Half Moon bay and a wonderful day trip while staying in town. Pigeon Point Lighthouse is one of the most picturesque lighthouses on the Pacific coast. The tower has long been a landmark for ships approaching San Francisco Bay from the south. On weekends, free history walks guided by State Parks docents are available. The restored lighthouse keepers housing also serves as a youth hostel for travelers

Filoli House and Gardens
area about a 15 mile drive from Half Moon Bay. Filoli is an historic site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and one of the finest remaining country estates of the early 20th century. Filoli is open for public tours. Attractions include self-guided tours, guided tours, and nature hikes. The largest gardens are working gardens for the production of cut flowers for the mansion and for the growing of some vegetables.

Lemos Farm Half Moon Bay. If you bring kids along on your trip to Half Moon Bay you won't want to miss Lemo Farm. Offering pony rides, hay and train rides, the farm also has a jump house and petting zoo. Seasonal events include a pumpkin patch and Christmas on the Farm. 12320 San Mateo Road.Half Moon Bay. Open Saturdays & Sundays 9 am to 5 pm.

Where to Stay:
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay this grand seaside resort and spa is situated on dramatic bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The hotel features 261 luxurious guestrooms, a bluff side Jacuzzi and fireplace and world-class dining. An ideal location for family getaways, “The Ritz Kids Program” is offered year-round and has fun activities such as board games, basketball, arts and crafts projects, tennis, nature exploration and much more.

Zaballa House Bed and Breakfast
is conveniently located in the heart of historic. All guests are provided a complimentary and hearty Full Breakfast, consisting of waffles, various quiches, breakfast breads, coffee, tea and juice. In the early evenings from 5pm to 7pm, a complimentary Wine and Cheese Reception is served. Double-sized whirlpool tubs and fireplaces are available.

Oceano Hotel & Spa Half Moon Bay
California .overlooking picturesque Pillar Point Harbor. The hotel is adjacent to a quaint seaside shopping lane where guests can enjoy unique restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. After shopping and exploring local coast-side culture and activities, the Oceano full service spa offers an ideal retreat. Only 25 minutes from San Francisco International Airport.

Surfer Rides Huge Wave Mavericks
Surfer Rides Huge Wave Mavericks
Pigeon Point Lighthouse Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Half Moon Bay State Beach is located a half-mile west of Highway 1 on Kelly Avenue in Half Moon Bay. There are three parking and beach access points: Francis Beach, at the end of Kelly Avenue in the City of Half Moon Bay. Venice Beach, at the end of Venice Boulevard off Highway 1. Dunes Beach at the end of Young Avenue off Highway 1.

Pillar Point Harbor at the northern edge of Half Moon Bay. Fishermen sell crab and fish catches straight off their boats at discount prices directly to the public, and restaurants will fillet the fish for customers.

Half Moon Bay is located approximately 25 miles south of San Francisco, 10 miles west of San Mateo, and 45 miles north of Santa Cruz.
 

Half Moon Bay Hotels
Call toll free 1-877-300-6138 for reservation assistance
Landis Inn Half moon Bay
Zaballa House, a restored 16 room Bed and Breakfast, is conveniently located on Main Street in downtown Half Moon Bay
Oceano Half Moon Bay
 Beach House Hotel
Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is set atop a bluff overlooking the northern California coastline
Landis Shores Oceanfront Inn offers eight elegantly appointed oceanfront rooms.
Zaballa House, restored 16 room Bed and Breakfast, in downtown Half Moon Bay.
Oceano Half Moon Bay Located on the edge of the bay and steps from the Pillar Point Harbor.
Beach House Hotel great location and gorgeous views, a perfect romantic getaway.

 
Content © californiadaytrips.com. All rights reserved | site map | contact | privacy policy | terms of use