Half Moon Bay attractions

The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay is an elite golf and spa resort situated on the bluffs above the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Enjoy soothing coastal breezes, breathtaking views, elegant accommodations, and an unforgettable culinary experience. If golf is your passion, two championship courses await. The Ocean Course is set atop a scenic bluff overlooking the Pacific, while the Old Course is a parkland course with Cypress-lined fairways and a finishing hole along the ocean.

1 Miramontes Point Road

Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

The James Johnston house sits on an isolated hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, just south of town. The classic New England salt-box was built by '49er pioneer James Johnston between 1853-1855. His dream was to have an eastern style dairy ranch, which became a reality when he sent his brothers back to Ohio to round up a herd of eastern dairy cows and drive them across the country to Spanish Town. The elegantly appointed house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Highway 1 at Higgins-Purisima Road

Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Perched on a cliff 20 miles south of Town, is the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in America. It has been guiding mariners since 1872, and is one of the oldest remaining lighthouses on the West Coast. The lighthouse keeper's housing has been restored and is operating as a Hostel with both shared and private rooms. Pigeon Point is a popular spot for whale watching, and a convenient base for exploring the surrounding coastal area.

210 pigeon point road

Pescadero, CA 94060

Pillar Point Harbor is located just north of Half Moon Bay. It is a working Harbor where commercial fisherman sell their daily catch right off the boat. There is a pier, a monument to the men lost at sea, hotels, and numerous restaurants serving fresh-caught seafood. You can also book Whale watching excursions and charter fishing adventures from Pillar Point Harbor.

1 Johnson Pier

Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Head south along the beautiful coastline for about a half hour, to the tiny village of Pescadero. When you near Pescadero, follow the cute, hand-painted signs of the little girl and the goat. It will lead you to Harley Farms Goat Cheese Factory where you can taste the end result of their handy work. If you arrive mid-morning, you can watch the goats being milked, and watch the cheese being made. Don't forget to purchase some treats to take home.

205 North St

Pescadero, CA 94060

Just up the coast, near Pillar Point Harbor, is Mavericks, the home of the world-renowned big wave surfing contest. The contest attracts 24 of the most elite surfers from around the world, who are summoned to the event when winter storms produce waves that typically reach 25-50 feet. Unless you're an expert, just enjoy watching from shore, and leave the big waves to the pros.

Pillar Point Harbor

Half Moon Bay, CA 94019