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Half
Moon Bay Day Trip Weekend Getaway
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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.
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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.
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Surfer
Rides Huge Wave Mavericks |
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. |
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Half
Moon Bay Hotels |
Call toll free 1-877-300-6138 for reservation
assistance |
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Zaballa
House, restored 16 room Bed and Breakfast,
in downtown Half Moon Bay. |
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Discount
Tickets |
Half
Price Family Deals |
Northern
California |
Central
California |
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