Half Moon Bay
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.
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.
About Half Moon Bay
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.
Learn about Half Moon Bay history
Hotels in Half Moon Bay
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 in Half Moon Bay
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
What pairs perfectly with the natural beauty of Half Moon Bay? Freshly-farmed-(or caught)-from-here food. It’s kind of wild how good the dining scene is here.
Half Moon Bay is full of local flavor, including fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, waterfront dining experiences and local breweries, wineries and distilleries. There are even multiple MICHELIN-recognized restaurants in the area. Yes, multiple. This place is a foodie’s paradise.
Looking for a chill spot with amazing views of the Pillar Point Harbor along with delicious Dungeness crab, seasonal oysters, fish and chips and craft beers? Then Half Moon Bay Brewing Company is your place. For more seafood goodness, get yourself a table at Sam’s Chowder House, and do yourself a favor and try their clam chowder and lobster rolls.
Brunchers rejoice! Half Moon Bay doesn’t lack in options for those that can’t decide between breakfast and lunch. The previously mentioned Half Moon Bay Brewing Company has great brunch options. Navio at the Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay also offers brunch (along with the unique experience that comes with MICHELIN-recognition) if you’re looking to zhuzh up your day.
Speaking of MICHELIN-recognition, Half Moon Bay is home to several other spots with this honor, including La Costanera Cocina Peruana and Pasta Moon Ristorante & Bar. It’s not often you have so many MICHELIN-recognized options in one place.
And, if you time things right, Half Moon Bay is host to food and drink events all year long, such as the Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival.
Local Events & Happenings
With mild weather all year long comes 365 days of local events. From the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival to the Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival to a variety of seasonal farmer’s markets, art shows, live entertainment, festivals, fairs and other outdoor happenings, there’s always something to see, do, drink, eat or listen to in the area.