Montara State Beach, located just north of Half Moon Bay along California’s scenic Highway 1, is a stunning coastal gem known for its mile-long stretch of golden sands. The beach is enveloped by rugged cliffs and rolling hills, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, Montara is particularly popular among surfers, beachcombers, and nature enthusiasts. The beach’s northern end is dominated by the striking Montara Mountain, which provides an excellent spot for hiking and offers panoramic views of the ocean. The foggy mornings often give way to sunny afternoons, making it a perfect spot for picnics, sunbathing, and beach walks.
Half Moon Bay’s historic downtown, the waterfront hamlet of Princeton-by-the-Sea, and the rural town of Pescadero each offer a walkable thoroughfare chock-a-block with charming storefronts. Browse locally produced coastal decor and rustic furnishings at a home goods shop, boost your kitchen cred with striking hand-crafted La Chamba cookware from a specialty kitchenware store, and treat the kids to a marine-themed store that is one part gift shop, one part cabinet of curiosities. And before heading to the beach for a waterfront picnic, fill your basket with yummy edibles from a charming general store and wine and cheese shop.
Devil’s Slide Trail offers a hike with magnificent views following the old Highway One road. From this trail overlooking the Pacific Ocean, one can see a myriad of sea life and migrating birds. There is interpretive signage and observation scopes above the rocky cliffs. 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.
The City by the Bay! While you are on the West Coast, check out the place where Colleen and Jake fell madly in love.