Half Moon Bay Day Trip: Quick Facts
Pressed for time? Here’s everything you need to know at a glance for your coastal escape from San Francisco.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from SF | Approximately 30 miles |
| Drive Time | 45-90 minutes, highly dependent on traffic |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Fall (Sept-Oct) for sun & pumpkins; Weekdays to avoid crowds. |
| Estimated Cost | $45 – $150+ per person |
| Top Activities | Coastal walks, tide pooling, exploring Main Street, eating fresh seafood. |
How to Get to Half Moon Bay from San Francisco
While the coast feels a world away, getting there is part of the adventure. Driving is by far the most practical option for a day trip, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. You have two main routes to choose from:
- The Scenic Route (Highway 1): This is the classic California coastal drive. You’ll hug the cliffs, pass windswept beaches, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views the entire way. It’s a two-lane road, so be prepared for a slower pace, especially on weekends.
- The Faster Route (I-280 S to HWY 92 W): This inland route takes you over the lush coastal mountains before dramatically descending into Half Moon Bay. It’s generally quicker, but be warned: Highway 92 is notorious for gridlock traffic on sunny weekends. Our advice? Leave early!
Here’s a breakdown of all your transportation options:
| Mode | One-Way Time | One-Way Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 45-90 min | $5-$10 (Gas) | Flexible, convenient for exploring | Weekend traffic can be severe, parking is sometimes difficult |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 45-90 min | $60-$100+ | No parking stress, direct route | Expensive, and it can be very difficult to get a return trip due to fewer drivers |
| Public Transit | 2+ hours | ~$10 | Very affordable, eco-friendly | Slow, requires multiple transfers, not practical for a single day trip |
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Half Moon Bay Day Trip
Once you’ve arrived, the laid-back coastal charm takes over. Here are the five essential experiences that should be on every visitor’s list.
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Explore Historic Main Street
Step back in time as you wander down Main Street, the charming heart of the city. Lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, this is where you’ll find unique boutiques, fascinating art galleries, cozy cafes, and local artisan shops. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and a cup of coffee.
- Cost: Free to browse.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the old jailhouse building, a tiny, unassuming piece of local history!
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Walk the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
Breathe in the fresh, salty air on this stunning paved pathway that stretches along the bluffs. The trail offers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean and connects several state beaches. It’s mostly flat, making it perfect for a walk, a bike ride, or a scenic jog.
- Cost: Free (Beach parking lots charge an $8-$10 day-use fee).
- Pro Tip: The section near The Ritz-Carlton offers some of the most dramatic cliffside views and access to the famous cypress tree tunnel.
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Discover the Tide Pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Witness a vibrant underwater world revealed. This protected marine area is a treasure trove of sea life. At low tide, the rocky shoreline transforms into a natural aquarium filled with sea stars, anemones, crabs, and tiny fish. It’s a magical experience for all ages.
- Cost: Free entry.
- CRITICAL TIP: This activity is 100% tide-dependent. You must check the 2025 tide charts before you go and visit during a low or negative tide to see the marine life. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes.
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See the Fishing Boats at Pillar Point Harbor
Experience the authentic, gritty soul of this coastal town at its working harbor. Watch the fishing boats come and go, listen to the barking sea lions, and smell the salt in the air. Depending on the season, you can even buy fresh-caught Dungeness crab or salmon directly from the fishermen on the docks.
- Cost: Free to walk around.
- Pro Tip: This is the epicenter for fantastic seafood. Famous spots like Barbara’s Fishtrap and Sam’s Chowder House are located right here.
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Get Seasonal at a Local Farm or Pumpkin Patch
Half Moon Bay is the “Pumpkin Capital of the World” for a reason! If you’re visiting in the fall, a trip to a pumpkin patch is non-negotiable. But the area’s agricultural roots shine year-round with nurseries full of beautiful flowers in the spring and farms offering fresh produce throughout the year.
- Cost: Varies. Free entry to patches, but activities are extra.
- Pro Tip: In October, check out Andreotti Family Farms or Pastorino Farms for the quintessential pumpkin patch experience.
A Sample One-Day Half Moon Bay Itinerary
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this timeline to maximize your day trip, designed to help you beat the crowds and see the best of the coast.
9:00 AM – Depart San Francisco
- Beat the traffic! Leaving early is the key to a stress-free day, especially on a weekend. Take the faster I-280 to HWY 92 route to get there before the rush.
10:00 AM – Tide Pooling (Tide Permitting)
- Check your tide chart! If it’s low tide upon your arrival, head straight to Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. This natural schedule dictates your morning plans. If the tide is high, swap this with your afternoon coastal walk.
12:30 PM – Lunch at the Harbor
- You’ve earned it. Head to Pillar Point Harbor for a classic seafood lunch. Grab a table at Barbara’s Fishtrap (cash only!) or get a delicious lobster roll to-go and find a spot with a view of the boats.
2:00 PM – Explore Main Street
- Drive into town and find street parking. Spend a relaxing couple of hours browsing the unique shops, grabbing a coffee at a local cafe, and soaking in the small-town atmosphere.
4:00 PM – Coastal Walk & Sunset Views
- Drive to a state beach like Poplar Beach or Half Moon Bay State Beach. Pay the day-use fee and take a leisurely walk along the Coastal Trail. The bluffs here are the perfect vantage point to watch the sun dip towards the horizon.
5:30 PM – Head Back to SF
- Leave before the main dinner rush to avoid the worst of the return traffic on Highway 92. You’ll head home with a camera full of photos and a belly full of good food.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Half Moon Bay
From dockside shacks to upscale dining, Half Moon Bay’s food scene is a highlight. Here are our top picks for every budget.
For a Splurge ($$$)
- Sam’s Chowder House: An institution famous for its award-winning lobster roll and stunning ocean-view patio. A perfect spot for a celebratory meal.
- Pasta Moon: Located on Main Street, this beloved restaurant serves up sophisticated, farm-driven Italian cuisine in a refined setting.
For a Great Meal ($$)
- Half Moon Bay Brewing Company: A lively and casual spot with a fantastic dog-friendly patio, great craft beer, and a crowd-pleasing menu of pub favorites.
- Barbara’s Fishtrap: A no-frills, cash-only legend at the harbor. The line is often long, but the perfectly fried fish and chips are worth the wait.
For a Quick & Cheap Bite ($)
- Dad’s Luncheonette: Serving inventive, delicious, and simple food (like a mushroom sandwich or hamburger) out of a historic train caboose. A truly unique experience.
- The Barn: This rustic-chic spot offers fantastic burgers, coffee, and salads with a focus on local, farm-fresh ingredients.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
A little local knowledge goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smoother trip.
- Dress in Layers: This is non-negotiable. A classic coastal day can start with thick fog at 55°F and turn into a brilliant, sunny 70°F afternoon. A windbreaker is your best friend.
- Check the Tides: We can’t say it enough! For tide pooling at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, the tide schedule is everything.
- Book in Advance: For popular weekend spots like Sam’s Chowder House, a reservation can save you a very long wait.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, visiting Monday through Thursday is the single best way to avoid traffic and crowds.
- Bring Cash: Some parking kiosks at state beaches, smaller food stands, and old-school spots like Barbara’s Fishtrap are cash-only.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty along parts of Highway 1 and in more remote coastal areas.
What to Pack for a Day in Half Moon Bay
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a simple checklist:
- ☑ Layered clothing (t-shirt, fleece or sweater, windbreaker/jacket)
- ☑ Comfortable walking shoes (sturdy enough for trails and slippery rocks)
- ☑ Sunscreen & Sunglasses (the sun is strong even through fog)
- ☑ Camera and/or Binoculars
- ☑ A reusable water bottle
- ☑ Cash
Estimated Budget for a Half Moon Bay Day Trip
Your day trip can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want. Here’s a sample breakdown per person.
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Splurge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas/Parking) | $20 | $20 | $20 |
| Food & Drink | $25 | $50 | $100+ |
| Activities | $0 | $10 (Souvenirs) | $30+ (Shopping) |
| Total Per Person | ~$45 | ~$80 | ~$150+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to spend a day in Half Moon Bay?
The perfect day involves a mix of nature and town. Start your morning with a coastal activity like tide pooling at low tide or a walk on the Coastal Trail. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Pillar Point Harbor, then spend your afternoon browsing the charming shops on Main Street. Catch the sunset from the bluffs before heading home. For a detailed plan, check out our sample itinerary above.
How much is an Uber from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay?
An Uber or Lyft from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay typically costs between $60 and $100+ each way, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Warning: It is often very difficult and more expensive to find a ride back to San Francisco from Half Moon Bay due to a limited number of available drivers in the area.
What are the best day trips from San Francisco?
Half Moon Bay is easily one of the top coastal day trips from San Francisco for its beauty and accessibility. Other fantastic options include the charming bayside town of Sausalito, the majestic forests of Muir Woods, and the wild, rugged coastline of Point Reyes National Seashore.
Is Half Moon Bay worth seeing?
Absolutely, yes! Half Moon Bay is a worthwhile escape from the city. Its stunning natural beauty, laid-back small-town feel, fresh seafood, and easy proximity to San Francisco make it the perfect destination to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the coast.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Half Moon Bay Day Trip
In a rush? Here’s the short version:
- Go on a weekday to skip the traffic. If you must go on a weekend, leave SF by 9 AM.
- Drive yourself. Take scenic Highway 1 there and faster Highway 92 back.
- Check the tide chart for Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. It’s a must-do at low tide.
- Eat seafood at Pillar Point Harbor. You can’t go wrong.
- Dress in layers. The weather is famously unpredictable.
