Overview
Half Moon Bay Coastside is a rural seaside community about 30 miles (45 km) south of San Francisco on the Peninsula. Unlike sunny California stereotypes, this area is known for its foggy, cool climate where locals walk the beach in wetsuits while tourists shiver in bikinis.
Beach · Day Trips · Festivals · Nature · Surfing
Before you go
Connectivity
Standard US cellular service (4G/LTE) available. WiFi at restaurants and accommodations varies by venue.
Money
USD is the local currency. Prices at restaurants range from $10-40 per meal depending on venue. Accommodation spans hostel to luxury resort.
Safety
High tick activity in Bay Area fields—watch for Lyme disease symptoms. Never swim alone at beaches; check tide conditions. San Mateo County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement.
Transport
Highway 1 (Cabrillo Highway/Pacific Coast Highway) is the main route through the area. A car is essential to visit multiple beaches and attractions. Enterprise Rent-A-Car has a local office; Coast Cab Company serves the El Granada area.
Weather
Foggy and cool year-round—always pack a jacket, even in summer evenings when ocean breeze kicks up. Rain season runs mid-October through April. Typical beach days are in the 60s Fahrenheit (15-20°C).