The coastal town of Half Moon Bay, located between San Francisco and Santa Cruz, is known for its
pumpkins and humongous surf waves. This place has something for everyone. One can hop into a kayak and paddle past harbour seals and flocks of sea birds or go horseback riding on the beach.
Not many surfers are brave enough to take on the waves at Mavericks Beach (which is also home to
the Half Moon Bay Mavericks surfing competition) but for those surf-lovers, these waters are
definitely to be tested as the waves go over 50 ft!
Montara Mountain, located North of Half Moon Bay, is a popular outdoor recreation spot. One can
even learn to sail or ride a ferry at the Half Moon Bay Yacht Club or spend hours at the gorgeous golf
courses.
Thanks to the numerous artists in the area, it is easy to find several galleries, classes and workshops
available locally. Half Moon Bay also hosts an annual Art and Pumpkin Festival in October to celebrate the pre-Halloween harvest.
If you're there in December, and you're lucky enough, you'll witness the magnificent parade of over
15,000 grey whales as they swim south from their Artic feeding grounds.
The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve may seem interesting to some while some may prefer hiking to Año
Nuevo State Reserve to view elephant seals in their natural habitat. From farmers' markets and
romantic oceanfront dining to lighthouse tours and sailing, if you can do it anywhere, Half Moon Bay
is the place!
