Several miles of wide sandy beaches stretch to greet visitors to Half Moon Bay, which offers first-class opportunities for sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, relaxing, swimming, and camping (on the state beach). Picnicking is a popular activity on Francis Beach, and there are numerous picnic tables and stations for grilling visitors on the short cliffs overlooking the ocean. Many visitors also enjoy sunbathing, fishing and taking long walks on the sand. You'll often see people splashing in the water or surfing the waves, but be careful when you're near the ocean.
The water here can be very cold and rising currents can carry even experienced swimmers out to sea. Venice Beach is bordered by Pilarillos Creek to the south and Frenchman's Creek to the north. Depending on water flows, these streams flow into the ocean or create shallow lagoons. The Sweetwood camp is also located just north of Venice Beach; it offers tents for larger groups (up to 50 people), and reservations must be made in advance through ReserveCalifornia.
Because Half Moon Bay's state beaches are actually three beaches in one, it can be a little confusing. Unless a specific beach is mentioned below, these tips apply to all three. Redondo Beach is absolutely a hidden gem, and many Bay Area residents don't even know about this beach in Half Moon Bay. When you complete the form, print it out and submit it via USPS to 507-B Purissima Street, Half Moon Bay CA 94019. The Half Moon Bay State Beach visitor center is located in Francis Beach and is open on Saturday and Sunday (if the weather and the availability of volunteers allows it).
It's right next to The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, with eroded cliffs behind it, trails to explore, and of course, the long sandy beach. It's a bit difficult to get around (I'd say it's roughly 16 kilometers from Half Moon Bay), but it's well worth the effort. There aren't many facilities on Half Moon Bay's beaches, so you'll have to come with everything you need for the day. Unfortunately, access to the beach is only possible via a steep path, so keep this in mind when deciding which Half Moon Bay beach to visit. At the southern end of the park is Francis Beach, also sometimes called Kelly Beach because of its location at the western end of Kelly Street in Half Moon Bay.
Half Moon Bay is home to miles of pristine coastline and is the getaway spot for city lovers who need a break from the daily grind. They may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other Half Moon Bay beaches, but there's plenty of space for parking and walking. The coast encompasses the cities of Half Moon Bay, Miramar, Montara, Moss Beach, El Granada, San Gregorio, La Honda and Pescadero. It's the closest to San Francisco of all Half Moon Bay beaches, so if you don't want to go far, Gray Whale Cove is your best bet.
Schedule your class for a free excursion to the San Mateo coast and visit Half Moon Bay State Beach, Pescadero Marsh State Nature Reserve, or Bean Hollow State Beach. These beaches offer incredible recreational and panoramic opportunities without the typical crowds found in the Half Moon Bay area. The Visit Half Moon Bay website is a joint effort of the Half Moon Bay Coast Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, the Half Moon Bay Hotel Business Improvement District, and the Half Moon Bay Downtown Association.
