Your Coastside Getaway on The San Francisco Peninsula
Just eight miles north of Half Moon Bay and 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco, you’ll find the quaint, coastside town of Montara, CA. It’s small (less than 3,000 people), but with its scenic coastline, sandy beaches and historic lighthouse, this hidden gem is worth the trip. Discover all there is to do and see in Montara.
Montara is a must-stop spot for those traveling along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. The land was originally home to the Chiguan band of the Ohlone people before European explorers started establishing missions in the 1700s. In the 1800s, the area became part of Rancho El Corral de Tierra under Mexican rule and was primarily used for cattle ranching. The rugged coastline remained largely undeveloped until the late 19th century, when the Point Montara Lighthouse was built to help guide ships along California’s foggy shoreline.
The name Montara is believed to be a misspelled interpretation of the Spanish word for mountains or wilderness. Like many of the other costside cities on The San Francisco Peninsula, Montara has mild weather with typically foggy mornings that lift by the afternoon. It has remained a small community, and as of 2023, Montara had a population of fewer than 3,000 residents. Visitors enjoy surfing and soaking up the stunning ocean views at Montara State Beach, hiking at Devil’s Slide Trail and exploring the James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.
As you’d expect from such a small town, there are only a few hotel options in Montara, but the lodging accommodations they do have are truly one of a kind. The Ocean View Inn is located across from Montara State Beach along Highway 1. This charming turn-of-the-century inn has been beautifully restored and features nine guest rooms with spectacular views of sunsets and pristine coastlines. Ever wanted to stay in a lighthouse? The historic Point Montara Lighthouse is also a hostel where you can wake up to the sounds of waves crashing on the coast.
There are also plenty of nearby hotel options in Half Moon Bay. From luxurious stays at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay to the boutique Seal Cove Inn in Moss Beach to the coastside Lighthouse Hotel in Pacifica, all of these hotels are just a short drive away from Montara.
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Montara, CA is located on the coastside of The San Francisco Peninsula. It’s eight miles north of Half Moon Bay, 20 minutes from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco.
La Costanera is a great coastside dining spot in Montara. Enjoy Peruvian cuisine while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Or, if you’re looking for a grab-and-go option, Gherkin’s Sandwich Shop is the perfect place to get a sandwich before heading to Montara State Beach.
