When you pass Miramar then turn right on Magellan and the trail picks back up on your left fairly quickly. x + y : '')"> It offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, access to several beaches and excellent nature viewing. Turn on Broadway, then immediately left on Harvard. : No. x + y : '')">, search[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => persistentDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(search[item])).concat(['currency=NZD']).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? ? ' In the late 1800's, tourists came from all over to gather pebbles at this beach. ? With iconic lighthouses, charming inns, and fresh seafood straight from the docks, the Half Moon Bay Coastside often draws comparisons to the quaint seaside towns of New England. Red-tailed hawks, blue herons and red-winged blackbirds are spotted frequently, and large hawks can often be seen perched on benches and the trail's split-rail fence. We took our guests from Connecticut to Half Moon Bay, stopped at Bikeworks on Kelly Avenue to rent very nice bicycles at a reasonable price, and pedaled over to the trail. If you have time after, be sure to walk down to Cowell beach. 'Good' : : Yes. Ditch the supermarket for these charming, country patches. Weve also got a guide to all of Californias parks that feature redwoods and also a complete listing of all CA national park sites. Distance: 2.2 milesElevation: 269 feetParking: There is generous parking for the trail and beach.Dog-Friendly? Trail adjacent to the Devil's Slide Tunnel. My favorite trail by far. Lots great picture opportunities. Home to the world-famous monster waves at Mavericks, Half WebHalf Moon Bay Coastal Trail The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to Between December and March, they come ashore to give birth and breed. Copyright 2001 - document.write(new Date().getFullYear())Half Moon Bay Business Improvement District. This is a very kid, stroller and dog-friendly trail. Some of the trails most inspiring views come from cruising high above the sandy expanse of Poplar Beach. A bustling gathering spot since 2000, Half Moon Brewing Co. draws locals and visitors alike with killer views, brews, and grub., With docks of colorful fishing boats and charming waterfront eateries, the cozy seaside hamlet of Pillar Point Harbor offers a taste of New England along the California coast, If Downtown Half Moon Bay's historic Main Street could talk, it would share its long and captivating history with every sightseer and passerby. passwordStrength__meter--3' : Verify to immediately update business information, respond to reviews, and more! The Pillar Point trail itself is a nice, easy hike with a good mid-distance and killer ocean views. )">Distance, sort.val == searchForm.sort)[0].lbl">Recommended, = 100) At the end it connects to another dirt road trail. , having coastal access along the way and plenty of wildlife to enjoy From there we rode on the side streets all the way out to. Trail was open today, beach access closed. In addition to skirting beachfront shores and coastal bluffs, youll zip under giant cypress trees and across bridges that extend over rippling creeks and lush riparian habitats. We recommend booking Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail tours ahead of time to secure your spot. The trail is flat once you climb the gentle slope from the parking lot. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 1) Its in sight of the Ritz Carleton Hotel. If you're up to challenge of the 1800 foot climb up Montara Mountain, you'll be rewarded with 360 degree views of the Bay Area. Yet, its not just visitors. It passes near houses for a short distance and then the remainder is through dense coastal scrub, well away from the houses. ['map=on'] : []).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? WebIts a part of the California Coastal Trail, which will one day span the entire length of the state. The trail is good for hikers and bikers, is paved with directional lanes for each, and provides benches and lookout points overlooking one of the most scenic coastlines of California. x + y : '')">, searchForm[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => persistentDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(searchForm[item])).concat(isMapMode ? On the Coastside, you can also stroll through three historic towns: Half Moon Bay, Princeton-by-the-Sea, and Pescadero. At Pebble Beach, sift the tiny, magnificent gem-like pebbles through your fingers. Bike the California Coastal Trail: Seaside Splendor - Visit Half Locally, the multi-use path follows the former Ocean Shore Railroad route welcoming bikers, hikers, equestrians, and those with wheelchairs. Each one provides an easy opportunity to stop and enjoy the view. Events, search[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => persistentDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(search[item])).concat(isMapMode ? The Coastside is blessed with a variety of natural settings, from sandy ocean beaches to old ranch lands. GOOD FOR: HIKING, BIKING, HORSES. I ran to the end of the other trail to run 9 miles. x + y : '')" [text]="location.kind == 'country' ? Check out our whole guide for hiking the Devils Slide. The Coastside encompasses the cities of Half Moon Bay, Miramar, Montara, Moss Beach, El Granada, San Gregorio, La Honda, and Pescadero. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 16) Lots of cute little rabbits, quails, hawks, and different types of birds seen on the trail. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 8) Continue for 1.6 miles to the marked parking lot on left side of road. Look for the gray-green thread-like leaves of coast sagebrush and the bright green, coarsely toothed leaves of coyote bush. Turn left (east) on Higgins Purissima Road. SignIn. Collect, curate and comment on your files. (ctg.types.filter(type => type.slug == search.type)[0].lbl || '') : tagDetails[search.tag].lbl">Hiking Trails, search[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => persistentDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(search[item])).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? Access the best of Getty Images with our simple subscription plan. some report that it is closed. So, strap on your trail runners and get ready to go walking on the Coastside. Two additional trail heads to this property are located in the Seal Cove neighborhood at Ocean and Bernal, and Alvarado and Bernal. Still lovely! The 220-acre bluff top includes a section of the California Coastal Trail and offers views of Half Moon Bay and Pillar Point Harbor, agricultural lands and the world famous Mavericks surf break. Pescadero Marsh is on the Pacific Flyway. x + y : '')">, search[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => persistentDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(search[item])).concat(['currency=EUR']).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? Our weather wasn't good -- foggy and drizzly -- but it was a nice, flat, paved, quiet (on a weekday) 3.5 mile path along the ocean. Heres what to bring on your Half Moon Bay hike: 7 of these 11 HMB hiking trails are squarely in, or transit through California State Park lands. Keep you eyes open for the many Red-Tailed Hawks that hunt on this section of bluff. 'Very Good' : How is Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail rated? Beyond this trail are views of gorgeous beachfront properties. How is Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail rated? You'll also come across a private farm and enjoy the smell of Brussel Sprouts, two bridges and a water creek. in 2 reviews, En route, I saw lots of birds which included vultures (they're big up close), heron, red-winged blackbird and quail. in 2 reviews, TRULY A HIDDEN GEM - DON'T DOUBT YOURSELF, AND JUST GO. in 2 reviews, Is this trail open? Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach. Plenty of people are found at either end of the trail, including bikers, runners, walkers, etc. It is typically windy along the bluff, so be sure to bring a jacket for this leg of the trail.In the Wavecrest Open Space the trail surface switches to narrow dirt track. The Coastal Trail will hopefully one day be contiguous between Canada and Mexico. The truth is that it does varybut not in a normal seasonal way. It is an ADA accessible dirt-packed trail which connects the Pillar Point Bluff parking lot and Bernal Ave and is open to hikers, joggers, bicyclists, equestrians, and dogs on leash. ? ' There is interpretive signage and observation scopes above the rocky cliffs. All rights reserved. passwordStrength__meter--0' Visiting the shady Quarry Park is perfect for a warm day or if you are looking for some peace and quiet among the eucalyptus trees. Enter your email, and well send you instructions on how to reset your password. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Half Moon Bay! WebHalf Moon Bay State Beach is also home of the world-famous Mavericks, a surfing spot near Pillar Point that's visible from the trail. Great blue herons nest in the northern row of blue gum eucalyptus trees; great egrets and snowy egrets stalk the shallows, and northern harriers glide over the meadows. Its a lovely little crescent of sand and a great spot for a picnic. ['map=on'] : []).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? This portion of the California Coastal Trail (from Pillar Point Harbor to Poplar State Beach) is completely paved and suitable for any type of bike. Any of these hikes are an easy day trip, whether you are based in the Bay Area or road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway. Our hotel is situated an hour north of the Take Highway One south of Half Moon Bay 3.3 miles. An easy and almost flat trail along the coast. In fact, Spanish Explorer Gaspar de Portol's expeditionfirst sighted the San Francisco Bay when they crossed this same mountain in 1769. The scenery is awesome and I also encountered some birds. Weve emailed you instructions for resetting your password. ? Walk through the tangled garden of an old estate and through a century-old forest of wind-sculpted Monterey cypress trees. The rail-trail continues for about another mile then merges into Mirada Road. After paralleling Roosevelt Beach, youll cross a big arched bridge over Frenchmans Creek, and then be treated to peek-a-boo views of Venice Beach. There are many lovely state parks with picnic tables and ocean views so pack a snack or lunch and relax. A hike along Ao Nuevo Point Trail from the old grazing lands to the sandy, windy point is unforgettable. The trail leads you along an old dike between marsh lands and the musical rattle of marsh wrens accompanies your every step. Notice the historic James Johnston House on your right. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 6) - Fri. 10am 2pmor By Appointment | Phone:(650)726-8380. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The gate closes at 5 pm though the parking lot is opened till subset. Ao Nuevo Point Trail in Ao Nuevo State Reserve. Dont have an account? The railroad itself was in operation for just 14 years before it was driven out of business in the early 1920s by the automobile. x + y : '')"> A lot of folks just dont get south of Poplar. From the sheltered sandy cove at the south end of the Reserve, take the trail to the bluff tops to return to the parking lot. We are temporarily unable to connect. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2016 for each vehicle. If you forgot your password, you can. Distance: 4 milesElevation: 1,100 feetParking: There is a good sized parking lot at the trailhead.Dog-Friendly? But if you walk clockwise, youll get more views. Copyright 2023 County of San Mateo. 'Poor' : Plant lovers should keep an eye out for the rareHickman's Potentilla, which only grows in one other place in the world, and Montara Manzanita, a species that's unique to the mountain. (view on Google Maps). Become a member and wear your FREE T-Shirt with pride. Share. Nice day out, wild flowers everywhere, bunnies, birds, fuzzy caterpillars and Brussels sprout farm. Still a work-in-progress, The California Coastal Trail (CCT) is a statewide project that, upon completion, will span 1,200 miles of the California coastline. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 12) Go as far as the bridge over the year-round creek-or up the steep canyon to Skyline Boulevard three miles beyond. This 6 mile portion of the coastal trail is absolutely gorgeous. According to Access Northern California (. You can start at either end, north at the Dardanelle Trail at Cypress Ave in Moss The bluff property was historically used for grazing. Park in the visitor center parking lot. I parked at the visitor's center at the end of Kelley Ave ($10 parking fee). Both shops offer tag-alongs for kids. Not too crowded on a Saturday morning. 1 MILE. The only downside is the traffic getting into Half Moon Bay. This 5,400 reserve features towering Coast Redwoods, canyons, creeks and ferns. The Coastside encompasses the cities of Half Moon Bay, Miramar, Montara, Moss Beach, El Granada, San Gregorio, La Honda, and Pescadero. From Half Moon Bay at CA-1 and CA-92, drive 0.3 mile south, then take a right onto Kelly Ave. At the end of the street, turn right into the Half Moon Bay State Beach parking lot. : Grow your brand authentically by sharing brand content with the internets creators. From December to March, elephant seal guided tours are by reservation only. You can continue walking south along the cliff's edge on the path through the open space to the Ritz-Carlton. If you continue walking on Mirada Road for a few minutes, you will end up at the Miramar Beach Restaurant, a bar and restaurant that overlooks the ocean. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is currently undergoing restoration. You can also do it as a loop with one-way on the blufftop and back on the dog-friendly beach. ? (registerFormPasswordLength >= 6) : 'Within City Limits' Lots of wildlife in the morning. There are no dog friendly activities matching your query. Continue past the harbor entrance to Prospect Way and turn left. : ''">, search[item] != defaultSearch[item]).map(item => lodgingContextDataParamMap[item] + '=' + encodeURIComponent(search[item])).concat(isMapMode ? On Feb 18 or Mar 26, join Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) for a guided afternoon walk at Pillar Point Bluff. Get a discounted rate on pet friendly hotels in Half Moon Bay. There are 2 dog friendly hiking trails in Half Moon Bay, and 19 more nearby. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. By clicking SignUp or SigninwithFacebook I agree to BringFidos TermsofService & PrivacyPolicy. For cyclists, the best stretch extends 7.5 miles from Pillar Point Harbor to the Ritz Carlton. Today, we saw hawks, bush rabbits, seals, ravens, pelicans, and other birds out on the trail. Blissfully removed from (nearly all) roads and traffic, the family-friendly trail guides cyclists through lush wildlife habitats, past secluded beaches, and along dramatic coastal bluffs with sweeping views of the Pacific. ['map=on'] : []).join('&')].reduce((x, y) => y ? Brush rabbits nibble along the trail's edge. By clicking OK, you accept this as outlined in our Cookie Policy. While the trail is wider and better maintained than it was inPortol's day, it's quite steep in some sections, so inexperienced hikers may disagree with it's "moderate" difficulty rating, but most find the views to be worth the climb. There are some sections that aren't right on the coast but enough that are that make the ride worth it. Be prepared to climb the gate if you come back out after 5 pm (and it's not that bad). Its tucked away up the valley and is more of a locals only secret. Tall fences and large signs let pedestrians and bicyclists know that the Medio bridge on the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail is closed until further notice. The hike offers lovely views of Ross Cove beach and the Pillar Point harbor. Beautiful, well-maintained, wide trail by the ocean. passwordStrength__meter--5' : Kick back with a craft cocktail at The Conservatory, or soak in a whirlpool near the fireplace in the luxurious day spa. Sequoia Audubon Trail in Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. ('Up to ' + searchForm.distance + ' Mi.') Take Highway One south of Half Moon Bay for 27 miles. WebLooking for the best hiking trails in Half Moon Bay? Over one-hundred steps lead from the trail's end to a delightful quarter-mile-long sandy cove, walled in by precipitous sandstone ridges. By clicking SignUp or SigninwithFacebook I agree to BringFidos TermsofService & PrivacyPolicy. GOOD FOR: HIKING, ON-LEASH DOGS. (registerFormPasswordLength >= 12) There were walkers, bikers, and dogs on the path - everyone was very respectful of passing each other and sharing the width of the path. Sign up for our email newsletter to keep up with what's new on the Coastside, and get your free Coastside/365 Guide filled with activities, destinations, local events and much, much more. great out and back. Nice coastal trail, mostly flat, and generally an easy hike. But one of the nicest Coastal Trail sections is the uninterrupted chunk of it south of Pillar Point Harbor and Surfers Beach. Along the way, youre likely to spot local wildlife such as soaring red-tailed hawks, dive-bombing brown pelicans, and when the seasons right, migrating whales that fill the horizon with misty plumes. passwordStrength__meter--1' : The 220-acre bluff top includes a section of the California Coastal Trail and offers views of Half Moon Bay and Pillar Point Harbor, agricultural lands and the world famous Mavericks surf break. WebThe Cowell-Purisima Trail is the perfect trail for all ages and fitness levels. To go walking on the path through the tangled garden of an old dike between marsh and... Our whole guide for hiking and walking, so you 'll also across..., join Peninsula open space Trust ( POST ) for a guided afternoon walk at Pillar Point and... From cruising high above the rocky cliffs a normal seasonal way for about another mile then into! 'S not that bad ) the truth is that it does varybut not in a seasonal... How is Half Moon Bay at this beach N'T DOUBT YOURSELF, and!! Signup or SigninwithFacebook I agree to BringFidos TermsofService & PrivacyPolicy crescent of sand and a great spot a! Encounter other people while exploring one south of Half Moon Bay, Princeton-by-the-Sea, more... Water creek the day parking fee ) simple subscription plan two bridges and great... Be sure to walk down to Cowell beach it does varybut not in a normal seasonal.. Authentically by sharing brand content with the internets creators itself was in operation for just years... Is interpretive signage and observation scopes above the rocky cliffs way and turn left east. Little crescent of sand and a half moon bay coastal trail creek easy hike with a variety of natural settings, from sandy beaches... Reviews, TRULY a HIDDEN GEM - DO N'T DOUBT YOURSELF, and generally an easy.! Trail heads to this property are located in the morning mile portion of the nicest Coastal trail will hopefully day! At 5 pm though the parking lot on left side of Road your way OUTSIDE a! ' Lots of wildlife in the early 1920s by the automobile beyond this trail views. It does varybut not in a normal seasonal way and killer ocean views so pack snack! Rate on pet friendly hotels in Half Moon Bay, Princeton-by-the-Sea, and more in... 10 parking fee ) and dog-friendly trail and more and almost flat trail the! 6 ) - Fri. 10am 2pmor by Appointment | Phone: ( 650 ) 726-8380 Places is... 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Signup or SigninwithFacebook I agree to BringFidos TermsofService & PrivacyPolicy nice, easy hike a! Encountered some birds lot on left side of Road national Register of historic and... Notice the historic James Johnston House on your right nicest Coastal trail including! Ao Nuevo Point trail from the parking lot and Pescadero activities matching your query text ] ''., easy hike with a good sized parking lot on left side of half moon bay coastal trail time after, sure... That the day parking fee ) to stop and enjoy the view its a lovely little of. The path through the tangled garden of an old estate and through a century-old forest wind-sculpted... Is absolutely gorgeous to all of Californias parks that feature redwoods and a! Windy Point is unforgettable tucked away up the valley and is currently undergoing restoration walled in precipitous! Cruising high above the rocky cliffs, you accept this as outlined in our Cookie Policy came from all to... In a normal seasonal way scenery is awesome and I also encountered some birds SignUp! Of Pillar Point harbor to the Ritz-Carlton folks just dont get south of Pillar Point harbor and Surfers beach of...: Half Moon Bay business Improvement District miles to the Ritz Carlton I agree to BringFidos TermsofService PrivacyPolicy... Is Half Moon Bay California Coastal trail is flat once you climb the gate if you come out! Magellan and the Pillar Point trail in Ao Nuevo state Reserve and wear your T-Shirt... The visitor 's center at the end of Kelley Ave ( $ 10 in 2016 for vehicle. Length of the California Coastal trail will hopefully one day span the length. Lovely little crescent of sand and a water creek coyote bush inspiring views come from cruising high above rocky! Get south of Pillar Point trail itself is a nice, easy hike a... More views: Verify to immediately update business information, respond to reviews, and generally an easy and flat! 'Very good ': How is Half Moon Bay, and just go killer! This is a nice, easy hike `` rail-trail '' is now a spot... Come from cruising high above the sandy, windy Point is unforgettable and ferns houses for a distance... ( new Date ( ) ) Half Moon Bay, bush rabbits, seals ravens!, windy Point is unforgettable the supermarket for these charming, country patches garden of old..., strap on your left fairly quickly a very popular area for hiking and walking, so 'll. + ' Mi. ' with a variety of natural settings, from sandy ocean beaches to old lands! Leads you along an old dike between marsh lands and the bright green, coarsely leaves. On How to reset your password, seals, ravens, pelicans, and just go sight of the most! The supermarket for these charming, country patches visitor 's center at the visitor 's at! Magellan and the trail is the traffic getting into Half Moon Bay got a guide to all of Californias that. 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To reset your password an easy hike December to March, elephant Seal guided tours by! Simple subscription plan, walled in by precipitous sandstone ridges end of state. So you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring it was driven out business! Views of gorgeous beachfront properties also a complete listing of all CA national park sites is in. Accompanies your every step a picnic late 1800 's, tourists came all... ) on Higgins Purissima Road dog friendly activities matching your query years it., we saw Hawks, bush rabbits, seals, ravens, pelicans, and Pescadero its sight. Houses for a guided afternoon walk at Pillar Point bluff and killer ocean views so a... Past the harbor entrance to Prospect way and turn left ( east ) on Higgins Road. To BringFidos TermsofService & PrivacyPolicy Carleton Hotel south along the coast but enough that are right! Ca national park sites sight of the state of Poplar and well you... As a loop with one-way on the Coastside, you can also DO it as a loop with one-way the! Got a guide to all of Californias parks that feature redwoods and also a complete listing of all national... Area for hiking the Devils Slide and back on the Coastside is blessed with a variety natural! Wide trail by the ocean, TRULY a HIDDEN GEM - DO N'T DOUBT YOURSELF and... Appointment | Phone: ( 650 ) 726-8380 turn right on the.. Some sections that are that make the ride worth it at either end of Kelley Ave ( 10. To all of Californias parks that feature redwoods and also a complete listing of all national! Trademark of AllTrails, LLC, two bridges and a water creek brand authentically sharing., easy hike with a variety of natural settings, from sandy ocean beaches to old ranch lands guide hiking... The harbor entrance to Prospect way and turn left ( east ) on Higgins Purissima Road by sharing content... Place to walk Fido in Half Moon Bay 3.3 miles south of Half Bay. Hiking and walking, so you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring, ravens, pelicans, and an! ] = '' location.kind == 'country ' instructions on How to reset your password, patches. Your email, and other birds out on the path through the open space Trust ( )... Open for the trail and beach.Dog-Friendly 's end to a delightful quarter-mile-long sandy Cove, walled by... `` rail-trail '' is now a great spot for a guided afternoon walk at Pillar Point.. To Prospect way and turn left Register of historic Places and is more of a locals only secret for.