Half Moon Bay Bed and Breakfast

History

The history of Half Moon Bay harkens back to the 1840s which makes it the oldest settlement in San Mateo County. Back in the early days, it was referred to as ‘Spanishtown’.  Prior to the formation of the town, the land was home to the Ohlone Indians for thousands of years. However, when land grants were given to the areas Mexicans settlers the rugged area was quickly turned into a small community that quickly grew when gold was discovered in the state and the gold rush was launched.In 1874, Spanishtown was officially renamed Half Moon Bay due to its crescent-shaped harbor which sits north of the town. Sadly, the earthquake of 1906 destroyed many of the area’s brick business building and adobe homes. However, many of the wooden homes and shops managed to survive and remain today.During the 1920s to 1933, Half Moon Bay become a hug for rum runners who sought to circumvent the Prohibition laws. Local moonshine production increased, and the rum runners would take the hooch all the way from the California coast north to Canada.Today, Half Moon Bay is home to around 12,500 people. The historic buildings of the down are iconic and always draw many tourists every year. Many of the area farms that date back to the 1800s also still flourish and many offer tours.

Activities

If you are looking for a charming seaside respite then Half Moon BayCoastside will not disappoint. Escape the hustle and bustle of San Francisco and make the 35-minute drive to the hamlet for a wonderful weekend getaway. You can hunt for seashells along miles of white sandy beaches, take a trek through the redwood forest, or explore the town’s historic downtown. You can also go horseback riding on the beach, shop, hike, bike, golf, surf, enjoy many dining opportunities and visit area farms. There are several wineries and distilleries in the area that offer tours and classes.Take the time to explore the picturesque Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park. Typically, the lighthouse is obscured in dense fog which only adds to its appeal. The structure was built in 1871 to prevent shipwrecks. The 115-foot lighthouse has the reputation of being the tallest in the United States. Nowadays, it is primarily automated and an impressive sight to behold. If you are lucky, you’ll also could see seals which regularly swim around the surf. The annual whale migration occurs from December to May. The rocky reef is also home to many diverse plants. Be sure to enjoy a guided tour of the grounds to learn more about the area around Half Moon Bay.Take the time to explore the historic downtown of Half Moon Bay where you’ll find shops, bookstores, clothing boutiques, and restaurants. One of the most popular spots is the Pasta Moon farm-to-table restaurant which has been an iconic dining location in the area for 30 plus years.

Natural Features

Half Moon Bay is a combination of lush redwood forests, farmlands, wineries, and rugged coastal beauty. Head to the North Ridge Trailhead located on Skyline Drive (highway 35) at the Purisima Creek Redwood Preserve. To explore 4,711 acres. The trail was an original logging road that runs alongside a creek and creates a gradual grade of 15 percent. As you explore the park, you’ll also find several other trails that meet the varying experience levels of many hikers The trees that run alongside the road are over 100 years old and are an example of a ‘reborn’ forest that has grown after extensive logging left the area bare in the late nineteenth century. As you walk the trail, you’ll see the stumps of the once-grand trees that existed prior to the logging incident.After hiking through the forest and redwoods, why not take a leisure stroll on the beach? You can watch the seabirds and look for other aquatic life.

Things to do

If you want to sink your toes in the sand of a beach then explore the Half Moon Bay State Beach. The beach stretches for four miles and is a great place to soak up some sunshine, look for seashells, fly a kite, or build a sandcastle.Half Moon Bay’s Main street is rich in Northern California history. You’ll see architectural examples of many historic buildings. The parks downtown also offer live music during the weekends. There is ample parking and many shops, galleries, and eateries to explore. During the weekends from May to December, the Coastside Farmers Market takes place at the Shoreline Station. Hundreds of growers’ flock to the event. If you have kids, let them play at the large outdoor playground Oddyssea which is formed into a sunken ship. Mac Dutra Park is also home to many outdoor concerts during the summer and fall months. You can also indulge in a historic walking tour where you can explore the town’s original jail and check out other interesting structures.Pillar Point Harbor is a refuge in San Mateo County. You can look over the colorful fishing boats or grab a bite to eat at one of the local seafood eateries. Many people use Pillar Point Harbor as a great place to view the world-famous Mavericks surf break which creates some of the biggest waves in the world. The waves can easily reach 60 feet in the winter months and then create a crash that registers on the Richter scale. Every year, when the conditions are perfect, twenty-four of the world’s best surfers descend on the site to participate in a one-day surf contest.

Weather

During the summer months, the weather of Half Moon Bay is very mild and warm. The temperature throughout the year can vary from 38 degrees Fahrenheit to 76 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter months, the weather tends to be very cold and wet. The wind can also kick up and the days are typically cloudy.  Despite the dreary winter weather, surf lovers continue to visit the town to enjoy the waves and beauty of Mother Nature. Also, the variety of shops and restaurants are always appealing even when the temperature is cool.

Food and Drink

Half Moon Bay is home to a few breweries where you can enjoy refreshing microbrews. Hop Dogma Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers. The building is fashioned like any Abbey which only adds to the ambience. In addition, they pair with Lamas Restaurant to serve up delicious Latin-inspired cuisine.Anyone visiting Half Moon Bay should stop at Dad’s Luncheonette which is a cute red caboose that has been fashioned into an eatery. They serve up a variety of lunch specials that are beloved by the locals.No visit to the area is complete without dining at a seafood establishment. Sam’s Chowder offers an impressive menu and calls themselves the ‘best seafood restaurant in the Bay area.

Half Moon Bay Bed and Breakfast FAQ

Why Stay at a Bed & Breakfast in Half Moon Bay?

There is something special about staying at a B&B in Half Moon Bay. It feels more intimate than any other lodging choice. From the minute that you check-in, you feel right at home. You can even pick a beach house that provides you with a breathtaking ocean view. If you want to stroll on the sandy expanse of the beach then pick one of the bed and breakfasts with an oceanfront location. Without a doubt, the many bed and breakfasts in Half Moon Bay will not disappoint. Whether you want a historic B&B or a more modern establishment, you are sure to find exactly what you seek.

What type of amenities can I expect when booking a Half Moon Bay Bed and Breakfast?

When staying at a Half Moon Bay Bed and Breakfast, you can expect certain amenities that will make your stay perfect such as free parking and free Wi-Fi in your guest room. Also, many provide you free cancellation if something should suddenly come up and you must reschedule or cancel. Ideally, when shopping for the perfect B&B in Half Moon Bay, you should make a list of amenities that matter to you such as private bath, jacuzzi tub, ocean view, balcony, breakfast, and more.

How can I get around Half Moon Bay?

When visiting Half Moon Bay, you’ll probably want to use your own transportation or rent a car from the airport where you arrive. SamTran does provide limited public transportation and there is transportation from the small aviation facility located at Moss Beach.If you stay at a central B&B then you can always rent bicycles to ride around the area. Exploring the historic district of Half Moon Bay is easily achieved on foot. You can also rely on taxis or services like Uber

What Are the Different Types of B&Bs in Half Moon Bay?

When picking the best bed and breakfastHalf Moon Bay then you will definitely want to check out Mill Rose Inn. An elegant European style boutique establishment, they offer comfortable rooms and truly luxurious suites. The lovely Half Moon Bay bed and breakfast on the beach is within easy walking distance to the vast sandy expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy massages and relax in the garden Jacuzzi spa. The coastside inn is a lovely place to escape for a romantic excursion.The Nantucket Whale Innprovides a secluded suite that is located steps away from a lavish garden. The maximum occupancy is two individuals. The room boasts a stunning zinc metal King bed, sitting area and large cathedral ceiling. There is even a whirlpool tub positioned beneath a skylight where you can catch glimpses of the stars as you relax.Snuggle beside a roaring fire at the Half Moon Bay Lodge. It is the perfect bed and breakfast inn for a cold winter day. The seaside haven is the perfect spot to relax.Seal Cove Inn is located on a bluff overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. It’s a lovely location to seek peace and quiet. The rooms are modern, and the staff is happy to meet all your needs during your stay.The Zaballa House sits in the center of Half Moon Bay right on Main St. The B&B’s exterior is very mundane, but the rooms are wonderfully decorated and the staff exceptional.TheCypress Inn on Miramar Beach sits steps away from the sandy surf. The doors of your room literally open to the crashing waves of the ocean. The Bed and Breakfast is the perfect location for anyone who adores the ocean with easy accessibility. Enjoy an in-house massage or eat your breakfast in your room while you look out at the sea.