California tourism attractions in Half Moon Bay, California

The Half Moon Bay Coastside Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 637 Main Street in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. This center serves as a hub for tourists looking to explore the beautiful coastal town of Half Moon Bay and its surrounding areas. Visitors can find information on local attractions, accommodations, dining options, and activities to make the most of their visit. The knowledgeable staff at the visitor center are eager to assist travelers in planning their perfect coastal getaway. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an outdoor adventure, the Half Moon Bay Coastside Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your trip.

Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. This beautiful preserve is home to majestic redwood trees, picturesque creeks, and lush greenery, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and serene setting. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors.

Surfers Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 555 Obispo Road in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. This stunning beach is a haven for surfers of all skill levels, with its consistent waves and beautiful coastal scenery. Visitors can watch experienced surfers catch waves or try their hand at surfing themselves. The beach is also a great spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying the fresh ocean air. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking views, Surfers Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

Pillar Point is a picturesque and peaceful institution located at 300 West Point Avenue in Half Moon Bay, California. This beautiful location serves as a church, park, place of worship, and tourist attraction all in one. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, relax in the serene surroundings, or attend services and events held at this spiritual sanctuary. Whether you are seeking a moment of reflection, a place to connect with nature, or simply a unique destination to explore, Pillar Point offers a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere for all who visit.

Gray Whale Cove State Beach, also known as Devil's Slide, is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. The beach features a sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs that drop abruptly into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and opportunities to see migrating gray whales up close. Visitors can access the beach via a steep trail from the parking lot on the east side of Highway 1. Please note that camping is not available at this park and online reservations are not accepted. However, guided hikes and public programs can be scheduled through the Parks Events page. Additionally, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer.

Cowell Ranch Beach Access is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. Offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this beach access point is the perfect spot for visitors to relax, take a stroll along the sandy shores, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. With its convenient location and beautiful surroundings, Cowell Ranch Beach Access is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the California coast.

Pomponio State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 19369 Cabrillo Highway South, San Gregorio, California, United States. This beautiful beach is situated 12 miles south of Half Moon Bay along the San Mateo coastline, offering miles of gently sloping, sandy beaches at the base of high sandstone bluffs. Visitors can enjoy the small lagoon and roaring surf, as well as facilities such as picnic tables and pit toilets. Please note that camping is not available at this park, and online reservations are not accepted. However, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" Family Camp at Big Basin. Online registration is currently open for these adventures.

San Gregorio State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 20063 Cabrillo Highway South in San Gregorio, California. The park is open from 8:00am to sunset and offers a stunning natural setting with a wide sandy beach, grassy bluffs, and a driftwood-strewn estuary that is home to many birds and small animals. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, as well as learn about its historical significance as California Historical Landmark 26 commemorates the passage of Spanish explorer Captain Gaspar de Portolá through the area in 1769.

The James Johnston House is a historic landmark located at 100 Higgins Canyon Road in Half Moon Bay, California. This beautiful estate is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and stunning grounds. Guests can explore the house and learn about its rich history, enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming location. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the James Johnston House is a must-visit destination in Half Moon Bay.

Located in Half Moon Bay, California, the Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park offers a peaceful retreat in a pristine valley. The park, purchased by the State of California in 1983, is home to groves of mature eucalyptus trees and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the historic Mills Barn, dating back to the late 1800s, and enjoy a leisurely hike along the old ranch road alongside Mills Creek. Dogs are welcome at the park on a leash, and camping is not available on-site. The park offers guided hikes and other public programs, as well as naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Online reservations are not available, so visitors are encouraged to check the Parks Events page for upcoming activities.

Riptide Charters is a renowned store and tourist attraction located at 1 Johnson Pier in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. Offering a wide range of fishing charters and excursions, Riptide Charters provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying a thrilling fishing adventure. With experienced guides and top-of-the-line equipment, Riptide Charters promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a novice looking to try your hand at fishing, Riptide Charters is the perfect destination for a day of fun on the water.

The Coastside History Museum, located at 505 Johnston Street in Half Moon Bay, California, is a popular tourist attraction showcasing the history of the San Mateo Coastside. The museum features exhibits on the Ohlone period, farming, surfing, railroads, and the diverse cultures of the area. Visitors can also explore the historic 1919 Jail on the property, which remains open for tours and cell-fies. The museum is ADA accessible and open on weekends from 11am-3pm, as well as during Make it Main Thursday evenings and select weekdays when docents are available. The museum's construction was completed in June 2023, with exhibits highlighting local artifacts and the history of the Coastside. Additionally, the museum plans to restore the jail cells to their original state for visitors to experience. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this fascinating institution and learn about the rich heritage of the Half Moon Bay area.

Pillar Point #9 is a captivating tourist attraction located at 11820 Cabrillo Highway North in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. This picturesque spot offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Pillar Point Rock. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline, explore the tide pools, and watch surfers ride the waves at the famous Mavericks surf spot. With its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Pillar Point #9 is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.