Weekend getaway from San Francisco · #9 of 10
Half Moon Bay
A rugged surf town 40 minutes down coastal Highway 1: wide beaches, coastside trails, cozy B&Bs and famous pumpkin patches each October. Big-wave surfers chase the Mavericks break just offshore in winter.
Only 40 minutes down coastal Highway 1, this rugged surf town is packed with sweeping state beaches, cozy B&Bs, and a downtown celebrating local produce. Catch winter's giant Mavericks waves or October pumpkin patches.
Getting there
The stunningly scenic, direct 30-mile run. Highway 1 gets tight around Devil's Slide, so prepare for some weekend slow-downs.
A speedier inland route dropping you into town from the east. It's your best bet if you are kicking off from the Peninsula.
Day 1
Salt air, harbor views, and rustic farm town charm- 19:00 AMDrive
Drive down the coast to Half Moon Bay
Cruise south along the dramatic cliffs of Pacifica and Montara, passing misty coastal fields and crashing waves on your way to town.
- 210:00 AMActivity
Walk the Coastside Trail at Half Moon Bay State Beach
Stroll or pedal along this paved bluff-top path linking gorgeous state beaches, offering uninterrupted ocean views the whole way.
📍 Half Moon Bay State Beach, Half Moon Bay
- 311:00 AMSight
Pillar Point Harbor and the Mavericks lookout
Witness the birthplace of the legendary Mavericks big-wave break. It is best enjoyed safely from the harbor bluffs, not the chilly water!
📍 Pillar Point Harbor, Half Moon Bay
Tip · Winter brings the monster swells and major surf crowds, while summer keeps things sweet and calm.
- 411:45 AMSight
Tide pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Just north of town, find the Peninsula's ultimate marine nurseries. Peer into pools filled with colorful anemones, crabs, and starfish.
📍 Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, Moss Beach
Tip · Check those tide charts before you go! You will only spot these critters for a few hours right around low tide.
- 51:00 PMFood
Lunch at Sam's Chowder House
A lively beachside spot famous for its killer lobster rolls. Grab a seat on the deck by the fire pits and soak in the ocean views.
📍 Sam's Chowder House, Half Moon Bay
Tip · Book a table ahead of time, especially if you are heading here on weekends or holidays.
- 62:30 PMSight
Browse downtown Main Street
Take a lazy after-lunch wander down Main Street to check out cute local boutiques, a cozy used bookstore, and the visitor center.
📍 Main Street, Half Moon Bay
- 73:30 PMActivity
Pumpkin patch or farm stand visit
Hit the local farm stands for fresh produce year-round. If it is October, get ready for massive pumpkin patches and corn mazes!
📍 Half Moon Bay, California
Tip · October brings the fun but also serious traffic gridlock. Try visiting on a weekday to beat the rush.
- 86:00 PMFood
Dinner at Ketch Joanne
A bustling, unpretentious harbor joint serving up massive plates, with a lively attached bar that gets hopping as night falls.
📍 Ketch Joanne Restaurant, Half Moon Bay
- 97:30 PMDrive
Drive back to San Francisco
Wind your way back north up Highway 1 along the coast, wrapping up a perfect day with a 45-minute drive home to San Francisco.
Where to eat
An iconic beachfront hangout famed for legendary lobster rolls and cozy outdoor fire pits.
A local favorite harbor joint offering huge portions, a laid-back vibe, and a bustling bar.
An authentic, quirky English pub on the south side of town serving hearty pasties and classic bangers.
When to go
Expect brisk, foggy breezes rather than baking sun. Always pack a warm layer, even in the middle of summer!
Festival time! Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and the famous Art and Pumpkin Festival light up Main Street and local farms.
Mavericks wakes up! Giant winter swells draw brave pro surfers and thrilled spectators to the cliffs.
Good to know
- Dress in layers! The coastal fog can roll in fast, making it much chillier here than in downtown San Francisco.
- Always check the tide charts before visiting Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, as the pools only show off their magic at low tide.
- Snag your dinner reservations early for weekend visits, especially during the busy October pumpkin craze.
- Stay out of the water at Mavericks and never swim alone on these open beaches. Those currents and rip tides are no joke.
