When people ask me where I am from my usual answer is California. I was born in the San Francisco Bay Area in the suburbs of San Jose. Though I moved to Maryland just before middle school, I’ve been fortunate to return nearly every year to visit family, friends and my favorite places. I also spent two summers in college living with my grandma in Mountain View, now famous for being the home of Google. What I love most about the Bay Area, aside from the San Francisco Giants and outstanding Mexican food, is the variety of different places to see on day trips. A Half Moon Bay day trip from San Francisco is one of my favorites!

Half Moon Bay Day Trip From San Francisco

Half Moon Bay is an easy day trip from downtown San Francisco. Just 28 miles south of the city, Half Moon Bay lies on the Pacific Coast. To get to the city from San Francisco you can drive along the coast and witness stunning vistas of sea cliffs and oceans. My aunt, uncle and cousins live here so my annual pilgrimages to my home state usually include a visit to this coastal city.

Things to do in Half Moon Bay

On a day trip to Half Moon Bay, you will have plenty of time to explore the destination’s most unique offerings.

Half Moon Bay State Beach is an idyllic California beach with a long stretch of uninterrupted sand. Other local beaches offer tidal pools to explore marine life. For up close views of sea anemones and urchins, head to Moss Beach. You may even spot a sea lion or two.

Surfing in Half Moon Bay is world class. Every winter, the city is host to Maverick’s Invitational, a surfing contest in which more than 20 top big-wave surfers take on thunderous waves.  Prefer the land? Head to Maverick’s Surf Shop for locally made gear and clothing. Surfer’s beach, located right off Highway 1, is a great place for beginners to learn the sport, especially in summer months when the waves are smaller.

For more shopping, head to Downtown Half Moon Bay, home to a variety of cute local shops.

Princeton harbor is the go to spot to grab some grub. Barbara’s Fishtrap has great seafood, while our family favorite is Mezza Luna for Italian.

Hotels in Half Moon Bay

Looking to extend your Half Moon Bay day trip into a longer experience? While I am lucky enough to get to stay at my aunt and uncle’s home when I visit the city, Half Moon Bay is famous for its wide arrange of accommodation options from Bed and Breakfasts to budget hotels to fine resorts.