Nature guided tours near parks in Half Moon Bay, California

Cypress Lawn Memorial Park, located at 1370 El Camino Real in Colma, California, is a unique institution that serves as a cemetery, funeral home, and park all in one. Founded in the late 1800s by Hamden Holmes Noble, Cypress Lawn is a sanctuary of healing and beauty that pays tribute to the larger-than-life individuals who helped shape California's early years. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking natural surroundings, Cypress Lawn is not just a place for mourning, but also a place for celebrating life. Visitors can tour the internationally recognized arboretum, admire the exquisite architecture, and plan arrangements for their loved ones. The institution prides itself on serving families of all faiths and ethnicities with compassion and expertise, ensuring that each memorial truly reflects the individual being honored.

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.

The Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center, located in Half Moon Bay, California, is a travel agency that offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance. The center also provides information on guided hikes, public programs, and backpacking adventures through the Santa Cruz Mountains. The campground, now on the new reservation system ReserveCalifornia, offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups. The center is open on weekends and offers educational exhibits on the beach's cultural history. Visitors can enjoy four miles of sandy beaches, picnicking, fishing, and sunbathing. The Coastside Trail runs along the beaches, allowing for walking, jogging, and biking. Dogs are allowed on the trail but not on the beaches. The park offers an all-terrain beach wheelchair for wheelchair users to access the beach. Drones are not allowed in the park, and collecting natural beach features is prohibited. Special event permits are required, and field trips for school groups are available. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.