Discover Half Moon Bay

Your Coastal Gateway on The San Francisco Peninsula

Whether you’re looking for a day of outdoor adventure, an afternoon of shopping, or a night of gourmet dining — Half Moon Bay has it all and more.

About Half Moon Bay

A quaint small town in the heart of The San Francisco Peninsula coastal region — and a quick drive from San Francisco — Half Moon Bay is one of the oldest communities in the county. It’s also one of the most beautiful and has everything you may possibly need or want for a classic trip to the bay, whether you’re visiting for fun, business, or a little bit of both. 


Book a stay and enjoy comfortable year-round weather, beautiful coastal views, tons of outdoor activities, a charming downtown full of local businesses and unmatched locally-grown (or caught) flavors, just to name a few things.


If you’re looking for a range of affordable lodging options or meeting venues, there are plenty of those too. This place has everything. It truly is a charming coastal destination.


The second you step foot in Half Moon Bay, you’ll know what makes this place so special.
 

First, there’s the natural scenery. Half Moon Bay is chalk-full of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, rolling coastal hills and protected harbors. Whether you like the water or you prefer to be land-based, Half Moon Bay is the best of both worlds — It’s truly a sight to see for nature lovers (or anyone that enjoys a really good view). It’s kind of wild how beautiful it is.
 

But it’s not just pretty to look at — the mild climate here allows for 365 days of things to do and see. Looking to immerse yourself in that natural beauty? Along with a variety of water-based activities like kayaking and surfing, Half Moon Bay has plenty of coastal trails to hike, bike, run or walk, as well as protected natural preserves if you want to simply relax and enjoy the views (and perhaps spot a few birds or two). There’s also a rich art and culture scene in the area, with historic sites, museums, art galleries, gardens, events and more. 
 

There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Half Moon Bay.

 

Where to Stay

 

If you're planning a trip to Half Moon Bay — be it for business, pleasure or both — then you’ll definitely need a place to get some rest before continuing to explore this beautiful city. Luckily for you, there’s a variety of lodging options in the area at various price points. Looking for a luxury resort with beautiful coastal views? The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is calling your name.
 

Perhaps you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option? The Miramar Inn & Suites or the Quality Inn Half Moon Bay are great places to stay that won’t break the bank. Or maybe you’re looking for a boutique hotel with views of the ocean? The Oceano Hotel & Spa or the Beach House Hotel come to mind. Looking for bed-and-breakfast options for the fam? The Half Moon Bay Inn, the Mill Rose Inn, or the San Benito House are here for you! And don’t forget to take advantage of the various amenities offered at the many Half Moon Bay lodging options, from spa services to on-site dining to event space to proximity to beaches (some are literally on the beach).
 

Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget, family-friendly, or even somewhere to host a work meeting, there’s a variety of stays in Half Moon Bay. There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Half Moon Bay.

Things to Do

Half Moon Bay is jam-packed with things to do all year long. 
Are you an outdoor adventurer and nature lover? What better way to enjoy the natural surroundings than to immerse yourself in it with a range of outdoor activities from beachcombing to surfing to kayaking to hiking coastal trails. Or take a stroll down Half Moon Bay State Beach and enjoy the beautiful coastal views. There are also whales to watch and farms and orchards to explore here.
Perhaps you’re an art enthusiast or history buff? Well, you’re in luck because Half Moon Bay has plenty of cultural offerings too, including galleries, museums and historic sites. 
Pillar Point Harbor, homeport to the vital commercial fishing industry, has opportunities for kayaking, drinking local beer at Half Moon Bay Brewing Co., eating fresh seafood, and more. Add in a plethora of local shopping, dining options, wineries, breweries, spas, golfing and a calendar full of events such as farmer’s markets and pumpkin festivals (Half Moon Bay is the Pumpkin Capital of the World, after all), and you’ll never be bored here.

Restaurants in Half Moon Bay

Fattoria e Mare

Fattoria e Mare ("Farm and Sea") is a vibrant Italian seafood restaurant in the Bay Area utilizing…

Navio

Located at The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay, Navio’s main dining room offers spectacular views of the…

Ketch Harbor Pub

Ketch has been a beloved spot since 1975 for people of the Coastside communities. We are reinventing…

Mezza Luna Restaurant

Nestled in cozy Princeton Harbor, Mezza Luna Italian Restaurant has been a Half Moon Bay favorite…

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Half Moon Bay?

Due to the mild coastal weather, Half Moon Bay is great to visit year-round. But spring and fall offer fewer crowds and scenic beauty.

Are there pet-friendly beaches and hotels?

Yes! There are many pet-friendly beaches and hotels in Half Moon Bay. We want your four-legged friends to enjoy this beautiful place too.

How far is Half Moon Bay from San Francisco?

Approximately a 30-40 minute drive. Perfect for a day trip or a quick coastal escape.

Where can I park and how accessible is the area?

Public lots and street parking are available, especially near the beaches and downtown. Check local signs for any restrictions. Our downtown area is extremely walkable and it’s also easy to get around town using public transportation or your favorite rideshare.

Can I rent bikes or surfboards locally?

Yes, several rental shops such as Half Moon Bay Kayak offer bikes, boards, and gear for exploring the coast.