1. Wander Through History at Burleigh H. Murray Ranch
Location: Higgins Canyon Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Recommended For: Nature lovers, history buffs, and hikers looking for peaceful coastal trails with a rustic twist.
What I Love: ♥ “Tucked in a quiet canyon, the Mills Barn and eucalyptus groves feel like a step back in time.”
- Explore a hidden gem on the San Mateo Coast just outside Half Moon Bay.
- Walk scenic hiking and horseback trails through peaceful valleys and woodlands.
- Discover the historic Mills Barn, a rare example of an English-style bank barn in California.
- Relax beneath towering eucalyptus trees in one of several shaded picnic areas.
- Spot local wildlife and enjoy the sights and sounds of this coastal preserve.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for clear weather, wildflowers, and active wildlife
Local tips: There are no restrooms or drinking water on-site, so plan accordingly and bring supplies.
More Info: Burleigh H. Murray Ranch, Phone: 650-726-8819
2. Take in Serene Views at Crystal Springs Reservoir
Location: Near San Mateo, CA (San Mateo County)
Recommended For: Hikers, birdwatchers, nature photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic walk close to the Bay Area.
What I Love: ♥ “Walking the trail with panoramic views of the reservoirs and spotting deer and hawks feels like a secret nature escape.”
- Explore two man-made lakes tucked into a stunning rift valley shaped by the San Andreas Fault.
- Hike the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which follows the eastern ridge above the reservoirs.
- Admire the Diverse Habitats—including old-growth Douglas fir, chaparral, and wetlands.
- Spot over 180 bird species and wildlife like bobcats, coyotes, deer, and squirrels.
- Appreciate the beauty and protection of a designated biosphere reserve.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Fall through spring, when the weather is cooler and wildlife is more active
Local tips: There are no dogs allowed on the trail due to its watershed protection status. Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching.
More Info: Crystal Springs Regional Trail, San Mateo County Parks Department
If you are traveling with kids:
3. Explore Tide Pools and Wildlife at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Location: Moss Beach, California (San Mateo County)
Recommended For: Tidepool explorers, marine biology enthusiasts, school groups, and families
What I Love: ♥ “It’s like peeking into a living aquarium—sea stars, crabs, and anemones at your feet!”
- Discover nearly 3 miles of rocky shoreline, bluffs, and reefs supporting a thriving marine ecosystem.
- Explore vibrant tidal pools teeming with crabs, sponges, seaweed, mollusks, and sea stars.
- Learn about the fragile intertidal zone, protected as a designated marine reserve.
- Spot rare native plants like coastal bluff scrub and arroyo willow forest, and look out for non-native species like pampas grass and German ivy.
- Join a guided tour or explore on your own—a great hands-on science adventure.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Low tide is best for tidepooling; spring and summer mornings offer clearer views
Local tips: Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes for tidepool exploration, and check the tide schedule before you go. No collecting or disturbing marine life.
More Info: Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, 200 Nevada Ave, Moss Beach, CA 94038, Phone: 650-728-3584
4. Soak Up the Sun and Surf at Francis Beach
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Beach walkers, campers, picnic-goers, and coastal trail users
What I Love: ♥ “Wide sandy shores, ocean views from the bluffs, and the peaceful hum of waves—it’s the perfect coastal retreat.”
- Relax on a lovely, wide sandy beach with access to a grassy bluff park offering picnic tables and barbecue grills.
- Stroll the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail, which runs through the park and connects to other beaches.
- Enjoy sunbathing and long beach walks, especially in the morning or at sunset.
- Camp by the ocean with tent and RV campsites available right at the beach.
- Note: Swimming is not advised due to cold water and strong rip currents.
Cost: Day-use fee; campground fees vary
Best time to visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds; spring and fall for the best weather
Local tips: Reserve campsites in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Bring layers—it can get chilly and windy even on sunny days.
More Info: Francis Beach, Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, Phone: 800-444-7275
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
5. Bike or Stroll the Scenic Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Hikers, bikers, families, beachgoers, and nature lovers
What I Love: ♥ “A breezy ocean path with stunning coastal views, easy beach access, and trails for every mood.”
- Explore the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail, a 5-mile paved route ideal for both hiking and biking along the coast.
- Visit four connected beaches in Half Moon Bay State Park, offering 3 miles of sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing and casual walks.
- Enjoy the easy access to all beaches, with convenient parking and restrooms at each one.
- Catch spectacular ocean views while getting in some vigorous yet relaxing exercise.
- Note: Swimming is possible, but the water is cold and there may be occasional rip tides.
Cost: Free to access; parking fees may apply
Best time to visit: Spring through fall; arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds
Local tips: Bring layers—coastal breezes can be chilly even on sunny days. For a quiet stroll, try the early morning.
More Info: Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
6. Sip Local Spirits at Half Moon Bay Distillery
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Spirit enthusiasts, foodies, and travelers looking for unique local experiences
What I Love: ♥ “Small-batch perfection meets coastal history at the only distillery on the San Mateo coast.”
- Tour the Half Moon Bay Distillery, a craft spirits producer making vodka, gin, whiskey, and brandy in small batches.
- Learn the art of distilling during a 45-minute guided tour of the production facility.
- Sample signature spirits like Purissima Vodka and Harvard Avenue Gin in the cozy tasting room.
- Discover the area’s Prohibition-era rum smuggling history while sipping local spirits.
- Enjoy a visit to San Mateo County’s only distillery, nestled in scenic Half Moon Bay.
Cost: Tours and tastings are typically $15–$25 per person
Best time to visit: Weekends or afternoons; reservations recommended for tours
Local tips: This is a great rainy-day activity or relaxing stop after beach hikes. Don’t miss the gift shop for exclusive bottles!
More Info: Half Moon Bay Distillery, 103 Harvard Ave #4, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, Phone: 650-728-7226
7. Enjoy Oceanfront Dining at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Beer lovers, live music fans, and anyone craving ocean views with a pint
What I Love: ♥ “Coastal brews, live tunes, and sunset views—what more could you want?”
- Savor award-winning craft beers at the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, one of the top coastal breweries in the U.S.
- Hang out at the spacious taproom and restaurant just steps from Mavericks, the world-famous surf break.
- Chill on the outdoor terrace with a fire pit and epic views of the sea.
- Enjoy live local bands on weekends and pair your pint with their stellar pub fare.
- Relax with friends and locals during Friday and Saturday evenings or a laid-back Sunday afternoon.
Cost: Pints start around $7; food menu ranges from $10–$25
Best time to visit: Late afternoon to evening on weekends for music and atmosphere
Local tips: Grab a seat by the fire pit early—it fills up fast! Bring a jacket; ocean breezes can be chilly.
More Info: Half Moon Bay Brewing, 390 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, Phone: 650-728-2739
8. Paddle the Pacific with Half Moon Bay Kayak Company
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Outdoor lovers, paddlers, families, and adventure seekers
What I Love: ♥ “Up-close encounters with marine life while gliding peacefully across the Pacific—unforgettable.”
- Paddle through Pillar Point Harbor’s calm waters or venture into the wild Pacific with a sea kayak or paddleboard.
- Rent a single, double, or triple kayak or join guided tours with expert naturalists.
- Spot seals, turtles, seabirds, and more as you explore Half Moon Bay’s diverse marine ecosystems.
- Take a lesson or join crabbing and fishing kayak trips for a hands-on coastal experience.
- Suit up with top-tier gear including wetsuits and waterproof jackets provided by the company.
Cost: Rentals start at around $35/hour; guided trips vary
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for the calmest waters and clearest views
Local tips: Mornings tend to have less wind—perfect for beginners. Book weekend tours in advance.
More Info: Half Moon Bay Kayak Company, 2 Johnson Pier, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
9. Relax and Reconnect with Nature at Half Moon Bay State Beach
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
Recommended For: Campers, hikers, families, and coastal nature lovers
What I Love: ♥ “Four miles of sun-soaked shoreline and trails just steps from town.”
- Relax on a 4-mile stretch of wide sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
- Camp overnight at the Francis Beach campground, which offers well-maintained facilities and easy beach access.
- Learn about the area's natural history at the Visitor Center, open on weekends.
- Walk or bike the 3-mile Coastside Trail that links multiple beaches and leads to Pillar Point Harbor.
- Ride horses along the parallel trail between Roosevelt Beach and Francis Beach.
Cost: Free day use; campground fees vary
Best time to visit: Late spring through fall for warm, dry weather and ocean breezes
Local tips: No fires allowed on the beach; swimming is possible but beware of cold water and rip currents.
More Info: Half Moon Bay State Beach, Kelly Avenue, Half Moon Bay, CA, Phone: 916-653-6995
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