S.F. Bay Area — California
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay Attractions
Half Moon Bay Beaches
— Coastside Beaches

Beaches in Half Moon Bay
and along the San Mateo Coast
We love spending time at the beach. And with Half Moon Bay's beaches being so close in proximity to the Bay Area (just half an hour south of San Francisco), it makes a FUN day out. There's nothing better on a warm sunny day than taking a brisk walk along an ocean bluff or enjoying a leisurely stroll along a sandy beach — and there are plenty of them dotted along the San Mateo Coast.

Pack a picnic lunch, a blanket and beach chairs... take a good book and you're ready to go! See ya there :)

NOTE: Prices at California State Beaches went up in 2009, so be prepared to pay a little extra upon entry.

Scroll down for more information on some of our favorite beaches in Half Moon Bay and along the San Mateo Coast.

Francis Beach
From Hwy 1, turn west on Kelly Avenue (south of Highway 92) in Half Moon Bay. Francis Beach is one of the area's most popular beaches. The site includes picnic tables, camping, RV grounds and restrooms. Sandy trails and steps lead down to the beach. Picnic tables overlook the ocean — it's a great place to hang-out with family and friends. This is also the location of Half Moon Bay State Beach headquarters office.
Francis Beach Photos

Poplar Beach
This is one of our favorite Half Moon Bay beaches. Bluff Top Coastal Park and its scenic walking path overlook Poplar Beach and the Pacific Ocean — the views
are spectacular.
More Beach Photos

Miramar Beach
and El Granada Beach
From Hwy 1, turn west on Magellan Avenue and left on Mirada Road.

Pelican Point Beach
Hwy 1 at Miramontes Point Road,
two miles south of Half Moon Bay.

Pescadero State Beach
Hwy 1 at Pescadero Road in Pescadero, 17 miles south of Half Moon Bay.

Pillar Point Marsh
Popular with bird-watchers and beach-hikers — located past Pillar Point Harbor in Princeton-by-the-Sea, 4 miles north of Half Moon Bay.
More Info and Photos

San Gregorio State Beach
Hwy 1 at Hwy 84/La Honda Road in San Gregorio, 12 miles south of Half Moon Bay.

Roosevelt Beach
Roosevelt Beach, Dunes Beach and Venice Beach are all located in close proximity.

Dunes Beach
From Hwy 1, turn west on Young Avenue, north of Half Moon Bay.

Venice Beach
From Hwy 1, turn west on Venice Boulevard, north of Half Moon Bay

Top