The Coastal Trail
11.5 MILES, 1 WAY, EASY. GOOD FOR: HIKING, BIKING, HORSES, ON-LEASH DOGS
. The Coastal Trail will hopefully one day be contiguous between Canada and Mexico. The Half Moon Bay Coastside has done a great job of filling in most of the expanse along this portion of the San Mateo County coast.
Where can I walk around Half Moon Bay?
- Gray Whale Cove Trail, McNee Ranch State Park at Montara.
- Mills Creek Ranch Road, Burleigh Murray State Park.
- Coastside Trail, Half Moon Bay.
- Cowell-Purisima Trail, south of Half Moon Bay.
How long is the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail?
Enjoy this
3.7-mile
out-and-back trail near Half Moon Bay, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. This is a very popular area for trail running and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Where does the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail start?
I'm always surprised to run into people who love to visit Half Moon Bay but who have never heard of the Coastside Trail. It runs from
a little south of the Ritz Carlton south of town north
to Pillar Point Harbor a few miles north of town.
What should I wear to Half Moon Bay?
A lightweight rain jacket and rain pants
are essential as Half Moon Bay sits right on the ocean and the weather can change in minutes. Slip your rain gear into the side pocket of your golf bag so you have it if you need it.
Is Half Moon Bay open?
×
This park unit is fully open
. State Parks will continue to use a monitor and adapt strategy to meet any new guidance it may receive from local and state public health officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly, especially for the elderly, immune-compromised and the unvaccinated.
Are beaches open in Half Moon Bay?
Most state beaches in the Half Moon Bay area are open
. What other recreation is open in Half Moon Bay? Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, Memorial Park, Sam McDonald Park, Quarry Park, Pillar Point Bluff, Mirada Surf West, and Devil's Slide are open.
What time does Half Moon Bay beach open?
Visitor Center:
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Can you hike the California Coastal Trail?
Our work to complete the Coastal Trail takes many forms. The Trail provides for many types of uses depending on location —
hiking, backpacking, walking, cycling, skating, equestrian
. In some regions it is both a recreational and a transportation trail. Its variety is what makes it so wonderful.
Why is Half Moon Bay famous?
Half Moon Bay is known for
Mavericks, a big-wave surf location
. It is called Half Moon Bay because of its crescent shape. Originally an agricultural outpost to Mission San Francisco de Asís, the town was found in the 1840s first as San Benito, and then as is its Anglo fishing community grew, it was renamed Spanishtown.
Can you swim at Half Moon Bay?
Yes, you can swim at Half Moon Bay
. But No, it's not really safe. Half Moon Bay is known for strong rip and high tides. If you want to take the chance to swim, go with a swimming partner and study the tide before heading into the water.
How long is Devil's Slide trail?
Devil's Slide Trail is a
1.3-mile
multi-use trail, converted from a former segment of Highway 1, that gives hikers, runners, bicyclists and equestrians access the rocky heights of Devil's Slide above the Pacific Ocean.
How do you hike on the beach?
- My Coastal Hiking Experience.
- Wear Gaiters.
- Use Hiking Poles.
- Don't Stress About Sand.
- Prep for Tea-Coloured Water.
- Waterproof Everything.
- Keep Your Sleeping Bag Dry.
- Beware of Blisters.
Where can I park in Miramar Beach Half Moon Bay?
To access the beach at this location, find parking spaces
near the intersection of Mirada Rd and Medio Ave
or look for legal parking spots south of the footbridge (next to address 201 Mirada Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019).
Is Montara Mountain Trail open?
The trail is
open year-round
and is beautiful to visit anytime. San Pedro Valley County Park charges an entrance fee of $6/vehicle. North Peak via Montara Mountain Trail is a popular hike just outside of Pacific in San Pedro Valley County Park.
Is Half Moon Bay worth visiting?
There are many beautiful beaches, state parks, picturesque coastal villages, and historical landmarks in the Half Moon Bay California area. Being located along the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, you'll enjoy an area full of marine biodiversity. Here are a few of our favorite spots that are
well worth a visit!
How big are the waves in Half Moon Bay?
While San Diego has been seeing big waves, nothing compares to the surf at Mavericks in Half Moon Bay, where the waves have been
40 to 50 feet
.
Is alcohol allowed on Half Moon Bay beach?
Some of the typical rules for Half Moon Bay State Beach are: Dogs and horses are not permitted on State beaches. Leashed dogs are permitted only the Coastal Trail and in campground.
Bonfires, alcohol and fireworks are not permitted on beaches
.
Is Half Moon Bay a nice beach?
Half Moon Bay is
one of Northern California's best beach towns
. It has a cute downtown shopping district, great hiking and good restaurants. But more importantly, the Coastside has some incredible beaches.
Can you have a bonfire at Half Moon Bay?
Fires on beaches are prohibited, except a portable camp stove or barbecue
. Smoking, including vaping, is prohibited. Glassware and single use plastic containers and bottles are prohibited. Dogs are permitted on the beaches only on leash (maximum 6-foot leash).
Do you have to pay for parking at Half Moon Bay?
Is there free parking in Half Moon Bay? Most of the parking in Half Moon Bay is completely free, except for some parking at the beach, and paid lots that operate only during special events like the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival.
How many beaches are there in Half Moon Bay?
Half Moon Bay State Beach is a single state park made up of
four
beaches: Francis Beach, Venice Beach, Dunes Beach, and Roosevelt Beach. It's a favorite spot for sunbathing, picnics, surfing, fishing, and camping.
Is Mavericks beach dog friendly?
From the parking area hike down the trail to the harbor and turn right. Follow the trail to the jetty and around the corner.
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach
.
