California's Gorgeous Coastal City Offers Picturesque Beaches And Views

It's no secret that California's rugged and picturesque coast is full of enchanting beachside communities. From the hidden haven of Davenport to the iconic Spanish-inspired city of Santa Barbara, California boasts 840 miles of scenic shoreline dotted with amazing beaches and cool coastal towns. Once such settlement is Half Moon Bay. Situated just 30 minutes from San Francisco International Airport, this super chilled-out beach community feels a whole world away from the hectic hustle of the Bay Area. Blessed with rolling hills, idyllic farmland, and unspoiled nature, the city is probably best known for its miles of sand and big surf, along with its downhome vibes.

Half Moon Bay offers the cozy comforts of a small coastal town, while surrounded by redwood forests and the raw beauty of the Pacific Ocean. This makes it a magnet for nature lovers of all stripes, who flock there to experience California's Central Coast in all of her untamed glory. And the fact that it's just a stone's throw from San Francisco — one of the country's great metropolitan areas — makes it that much easier to visit. 

Originally inhabited by around 50 Indigenous tribal groups — now collectively called the Ohlone people — the first European settlers in the area were Spanish rancheros. American settlers arrived en masse during the California Gold Rush, but the city wasn't incorporated until 1959. Today, Half Moon Bay draws tourists keen to soak up its natural wonders, ride its legendary waves, stroll on Main Street, sip local wines, and take a swing at its world-class golf courses.

Half Moon Bay is home to three city beaches — Poplar, Surfer's, and Canada Verde — as well as the larger Half Moon Bay State Beach. All of these are ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, swimming, and especially surfing. In the winter — when the conditions are just right — professional surfers from around the world come to Pillar Point Harbor on the northern tip of Half Moon Bay in hopes of riding the Mavericks, the biggest waves on the West Coast. These monster swells can reach heights of 60 feet, but anticipating when they will appear remains more of an educated guess than a science.

Other outdoor activities in Half Moon Bay include kayaking, paddle boarding, tide pooling, and hiking. The area is home to 6 miles of the California Coastal Trail, which will one day span the full length of the state's coastline. This bike and stroller-friendly path hugs the beach and also ascends bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where wildlife lovers can catch glimpses of seabirds, seals basking on the rocks below, and migrating gray whales between December and May.

While the ocean views may be the star of the show in Half Moon Bay, the city itself is more than worthy of exploration. Start with Main Street, which is home to a number of charming shops and eateries. Treat yourself to retail therapy at Crow's Nest or The Posh Moon clothing boutiques, or take in some local art at M Stark Gallery before relaxing with a craft beer and a bite at Sacrilege Brewery + Kitchen.

If it's grapes you crave, pop into the tasting room at Barterra Winery, adjacent to Pillar Point Harbor. While you're there, head to the docks to watch the fishermen unload their boats, or sit down for some fresh fare at the old-school fish shack known as Barbara's Fishtrap. If you're feeling fancier, hit Mezza Luna for quality pastas, local seafood, and breathtaking harbor views.

Any golfers passing through Half Moon Bay will want to reserve a tee time at Half Moon Bay Golf Links. Overlooking the surging waters of the Pacific, this course boasts 36 holes set amid idyllic natural surroundings that will only serve to enhance your game. For more coastal charm, check out Ragged Point, California's "Gateway to Big Sur." Of course, the best way to savor the views is by cruising on Highway 1, the California coast's most immaculate drive.