Beaches

Several miles of broad, sandy beaches stretch out to welcome visitors to Half Moon Bay, offering world-class opportunities for sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, relaxing, swimming, and camping (at the State beach). 

The California Coastal Trail is a much-loved feature of Half Moon Bay, and it's accessible from a number of spots along the coast. This is a unique and wonderful bike/pedestrian pathway along the bluffs with views to the ocean and beaches, and plenty of opportunities for bird and wildlife watching (including the occasional whale), and wildflower viewing.

Half Moon beach
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Typical weather patterns for Half Moon Bay include fog in the summer; crisp, clear days in the fall and spring; and wet, windy winters. Temperatures are moderate with the summer highs in the mid 60s and winter lows in the mid 40s. Summer fog is most common in the mornings and evenings.

Half Moon Bay State Beach

This beach is owned and operated by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Please visit the Half Moon Bay State Beach web page for more detailed information.

Francis Beach is at the end of Kelly Avenue. This beach has a campground with 52 individual sites, some suitable for tent camping, others for trailers or recreational vehicles. Some campsites have electrical hookups. Water and sewer hookups are not available, but there is a dump station and a water filling station. Reservations required: 800-444-PARK or online at www.reserveamerica.com.

Venice Beach, situated at the end of Venice Boulevard off Highway 1, includes has outside showers and flush toilets.

Dunes Beach is located at the end of Young Avenue off Highway 1.

bluffs and curving beach
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Please note:

  • PROHIBITED on Half Moon Bay State Beach: fires, dogs, horses, fireworks.
  • Dogs are permitted in the campground, in the day-use picnic areas, and on the Coastal Trail, on-leash only (maximum six-foot leash).
  • Please refrain from removing shells, driftwood, and other natural beach features.
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Other Beaches in Half Moon Bay 

Please note that there are varying jurisdictions - City, County, State, and private - along the coastline in and around Half Moon Bay. Please be aware of private property and comply with signage and posted regulations. Some beach names are informal and not necessarily official.

  • Surfers Beach - located at the end of Coronado Street, in northernmost Half Moon Bay near El Granada, just south of Pillar Point
  • Poplar Beach - located at the end of Poplar Street west of its intersection with Highway 1, in central Half Moon Bay
  • Canada Verde Beach - located in southern Half Moon Bay, accessed via Miramontes Point Road, off of Highway 1
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Please note: 

  • 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).

Volleyball Courts on Poplar Beach - Closed for Season

In September 2021, the City received approval and installed three beach volleyball courts at the north end of Poplar Beach, as a pilot through November. Although the pilot was successful, due to winter storm damage, the courts had to be removed on October 22, 2021.  Please check back in the Spring for updates on plans for seasonal courts in 2022.

For any questions please contact Matthew Chidester at (650) 726-8272 or mchidester@hmbcity.com. 


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