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Weekend Getaways to Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay
photo © (Cunha's) Gary McGrath / Half Moon Bay Coastside CVB
A mere 45-minute drive from San Francisco lies Half Moon Bay, an idyllic enclave and truly the perfect place to spend some time away from the big city. Horseback ride along a scenic beach, play golf on a spectacular course overlooking the ocean or browse through the numerous shops and art galleries in the historic section. If you decide to stay, as many do, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the town's fine restaurants. Then check into an enchanting bed and breakfast, a charming inn or boutique hotel. Your Half Moon Bay experience will not be soon forgotten.
 
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General Travel Info and Advice
Don't-Miss Attractions
Where to Stay
Recommended Reading
Where to stay
The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
Beach House at Half Moon Bay
Old Thyme Inn
Comfort Inn Half Moon Bay
Holiday Inn Express Half Moon Bay


General Travel Info and Advice
Insider tipsInsider tips
Temperatures in Half Moon Bay rarely top 70 and it often rains sporadically. Bring a sweat shirt or rain coat, just in case.

Don't-Miss Attractions
TripAdvisor's editorial team reviewed our attractions database and selected the best local attractions to highlight in this itinerary. Some are popular, some are off the beaten path, but all are worth a visit.
BeachesBeaches
Gray Whale Cove State Beach: Gray whales can often be spotted close to the shore of this scenic beach. Surrounded by high cliffs, it features a clothing-optional section during the spring.
Address: Highway 1, Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: 650-728-5336
Free
Half Moon Bay State Beach: This broad and sandy beach, stretching more than four miles, features campground facilities and trails for hikers and horseback riders.
Address: Kelly Avenue, Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: 916 653 6995
Free
Cowell Ranch State Beach: The kind of place only the locals know about, this scenic state park is just south of Half Moon Bay and features a sandy beach and a seal preserve, plus trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Address: Highway One , Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: 650-726-8819
Free
Horseback riding on the beachHorseback riding on the beach
Sea Horse Ranch & Friendly Acres: This ranch offers guided horseback rides along the scenic beaches of Half Moon Bay through more than seven miles of trails. There are also pony rides for small children.
Address: 1828 Cabrillo Highway, Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: 650-726-2362
Admission fee
GolfGolf
Half Moon Bay Golf Links: This resort offers two championship golf courses, the 18-hole Ocean Course and the par-72 Old Course, both with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Address: 2000 Fairway Drive, Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: 650 726 1800
Greens fee
RestaurantsRestaurants
Barbara's Fish Trap: From steamed clams to fish and chips, plenty wait in line to savor the fresh seafood dishes.
Address: 281 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, California
Phone: (650) 728-7049
Things to doMore attractions
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Half Moon Bay goLists

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Where to Stay
Our editorial team selected local hotels and resorts that have good reputations and good deals. Because we know travelers' budgets differ vastly, we chose hotels at different price points rather than listing the city's top five hotels, which might all be in the same price range.
Luxury hotelsLuxury hotels
The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
Popularity index: #2 in Half Moon Bay
Expedia.com To See if this Hotel Qualifies Click Through and Enter Dates
Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay Best Rates Guaranteed. Book Direct.
hotels.com Low Rates Guaranteed! Click or Call an Expert at 1-800-434-6835
View all travel offers for this hotel
Beach House at Half Moon Bay
Popularity index: #3 in Half Moon Bay
Expedia.com To See if this Hotel Qualifies Click Through and Enter Dates
hotels.com Low Rates Guaranteed! Click or Call an Expert at 1-800-434-6835
Travelocity Hotel rooms at up to 50% off.
View all travel offers for this hotel
Moderate hotelsModerate hotels
Old Thyme Inn
Popularity index: #3 in Half Moon Bay
Expedia.com To See if this Hotel Qualifies Click Through and Enter Dates
hotels.com Low Rates Guaranteed! Click or Call an Expert at 1-800-434-6835
View all travel offers for this hotel
Comfort Inn Half Moon Bay
Popularity index: #7 in Half Moon Bay
Orbitz.com View Hotel Photos, Reviews & More Compare & Save on Hotels at Orbitz
ComfortInn.com Free High Speed Internet & Breakfast. Best Web Rate Guaranteed!
Expedia.com To See if this Hotel Qualifies Click Through and Enter Dates
View all travel offers for this hotel
Budget hotelsBudget hotels
Holiday Inn Express Half Moon Bay
Popularity index: #5 in Half Moon Bay
HIExpress.com Free Breakfast & Internet. Book online or call 877-270-6397
Orbitz.com View Hotel Photos, Reviews & More Compare & Save on Hotels at Orbitz
InterContinental Hotels Group Click, Book & Save 10% when you book the Advance Purchase Rate.
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Recommended Reading
"Half Moon Bay: Sun, surf and serenity"  Los Angeles Times (free registration required), May 11, 2007
This Northern California area is a favorite for bird watching, biking, hiking and those who appreciate the tranquility and beauty of nature.
"Tide is Turning, Bringing Tourists to Once-sleepy Half Moon Bay"  Seattle Times, Apr 21, 2002
Get a taste of this coastal town's history before it loses its special flavor.
"Planning your trip to Half Moon Bay"  Los Angeles Times (free registration required), May 9, 2007
Recommendations for hotels, restaurants and points of interest.
"California Golfing: The Pebble Beach Experience Just Up the Coast"  New York Times (free registration required), Nov 26, 2006
Pack your golf clubs if you're planning a trip to California.
 View all articles, guidebooks and user reviews about Half Moon Bay