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Discover Moss Beach

Your Coastside Getaway on The San Francisco Peninsula

It’s kind of wild that only 10 minutes north of Half Moon Bay, you’ll find the small coastside town of Moss Beach, CA. Home to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, the historic (and haunted) Moss Beach Distillery, the Half Moon Bay Airport and amazing ocean views, Moss Beach is the perfect place for your next getaway. Plan your trip to The San Francisco Peninsula today

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About Moss Beach

Moss Beach was home to the native Ohlone people for thousands of years before European settlers arrived on the Peninsula. By the early 1880s, the area began to develop as a resort destination. The  Ocean Shore Railroad provided a convenient way for San Franciscans looking for a quick getaway from the city to visit the coastside city. During Prohibition, Moss Beach gained notoriety for Frank’s Place (now the Moss Beach Distillery), a cliffside speakeasy where rumrunners and bootleggers smuggled alcohol under the cover of fog. After Prohibition was repealed in 1933, Frank’s Place became one of the most successful restaurants in San Mateo County. 

In 1969, the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve was established to protect the area’s intertidal habitat and marine wildlife. Today, this hidden gem on The San Francisco Peninsula is known for its natural beauty and historic charm. Visitors can explore the tidepools at the Marine Reserve, go horseback riding at Moss Beach Ranch or enjoy a bite to eat as they take in the ocean views at the Moss Beach Distillery.

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Hotels in Moss Beach

Looking for a memorable stay in Moss Beach? Check in to Seal Cove Inn. This boutique hotel sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is only steps away from the beach. Guests enjoy in-room fireplaces, complimentary breakfast, evening wine and rooms that overlook the Pacific Ocean. The hotel also features a boardroom-style conference room and complimentary Wi-Fi for those looking for a serene place to get work done or to host a business meeting. 

There are also many more hotel options just outside of Moss Beach. The Ocean View Inn in Montara offers spectacular sunsets and ocean views. Stay in luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. Or for more nearby hotel options, check out the Oceano Hotel & Spa, the Half Moon Bay Inn or the Harbor View Inn.

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Ocean View Inn

Experience the epic statewide landmark of the Pacific Coast Highway. An amazing charming turn of the…

Ocean View Inn

Things to Do

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Moss Beach?

Moss Beach is located on the coastside of The San Francisco Peninsula, approximately 20 miles south of San Francisco. It’s located on the Pacific Coast Highway between Montara and Half Moon Bay.

Where are the best places to eat in Moss Beach?

Moss Beach offers a wide array of locally-loved restaurants. Enjoy wild-caught seafood as you overlook the ocean at the historic (and haunted) Moss Beach Distillery. Head to Odyssey Pizzeria & Cafe for pizza, sandwiches, burgers and more. Or stop by El Gran Amigo Taqueria for Mexican food. 

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 What are the top things to do in Moss Beach?

Moss Beach offers visitors many fun things to see and do. Explore the tidepools at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, spend a day at the beach or go horseback riding at Moss Beach Ranch. 

 

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What cities are close to Moss Beach?

When you stay in Moss Beach, you’re only a short drive to many other coastal cities on The San Francisco Peninsula. Explore Half Moon Bay, Pacific and Montara, all along the Pacific Coast Highway.