Half Moon Bay State Beach

Four miles of broad, sandy beaches stretch out to welcome visitors to Half Moon Bay. This picturesque setting is ideal for sunbathing, fishing and picnicking. A campground provides accommodations for those who wish to visit longer.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Coastal access is available at Roosevelt Beach, Dunes Beach, Venice Beach and Francis Beach.

Camping

The Francis Beach campground has 52 family sites, some suitable for tent camping, others for trailers or recreational vehicles. Although hookups are not available, there is a dump station. Coin-operated hot showers are also available.

Trails

The level, 4-mile multi-use Coastside Trail extends along the beach’s eastern boundary from Kelly Avenue north to Pillar Point and south to Poplar Beach, offering spectacular ocean views. A horse trail parallels the Coastside Trail between Roosevelt and Francis Beaches; horses are not permitted on the beaches. Restrooms are adjacent to parking areas.

Fishing

From late spring through summer, Half Moon Bay is noted for good runs of surf smelt. Anglers use throw nets and are known to bring along gear to catch the striped bass that sometimes follow the smelt.

Swimming

Swimming is not recommended here because of extremely cold water temperatures and unpredictable rip currents.

Surfing

Surfing conditions here are nearly impossible to forecast because of the unpredictable weather and surf action. However, depending on the direction of swell and the level of

the tide, lucky surfers have been known to catch some memorable waves, particularly around the southern end of the crescent. A mile offshore Pillar Point, where waves can reach 20 feet in height, the worldfamous Maverick’s surfing spot is for experts only. The gentle swells at The Jetty near El Granada make it perhaps the most popular surfing spot in the area for beginners.

Visitor Center

The park’s visitor center features information and exhibits about the cultural and natural history of the area. Summer hours are Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call the park for winter hours.

BOATING

OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
Hike or Bike Campsites
RV Dump Station
RV Access

TRAIL USE
Bike Trails
Hiking Trails
Horseback Riding

DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Exhibits and Programs
Fishing
Interpretive Exhibits
Beach Area
Swimming
Vista Point
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Windsurfing/Surfing
Family Programs
Geocaching