Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is located on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Half Moon Bay. The centerpiece of this 5,412-acre preserve is Purisima Creek Canyon, with its towering redwoods, rushing creek, and understory of ferns, berries, and wildflowers. Magnificent views of the coast and Half Moon Bay are visible from the northern part of the preserve.
Our favorite area beach, which has figured prominently in our love story — from the early days of getting to know each other while watching the waves to the evening Gary proposed with guitar in hand. It's a small beach with big views. Often whales, crabs or other visitors stop by. Tucked behind the cliffs of Hwy 1, it is accessible via a highway crossing and a somewhat steep descent. It is stunning and well worth the trek for those willing to make it!
Get there early for the pancakes, and then to line up for your spot to watch the parade and continue the celebration at the block party on main street with music, food and drinks!
Easy 3.7 miles loop. Estimated time 1 hr 15 minutes. Takes you along the coast and Mavericks cliffs overlooking famous big wave surf spot, Mavericks.
3.3 miles loop trail of moderate difficulty. Estimated time is 2 hours with 869 elevation gain. Initial steep climb to views of Pillar Point Harbor and Half Moon Bay. Not much shade.
1.5 Mile easy loop trail. About 45 minutes. Also used by mountain bikers. Mostly wooded with 351 elevation gain.
4.9 mile loop with 1,210 ft elevation gain. Estimated time 2 hours and 45 minutes. Majority of loop is open as you climb to Montara Mountain. There are a few other trails that connect to this one. Choose your own adventure!
Kayak, paddle board, and bike rentals. By hour and by day options and single and double.
Horseback riding on the beautiful Pacific Coast in Half Moon Bay.
Amazing views, a haunting ghost legend, old school bar, tasty clam chowder. One of our favorite haunts in the area.
Located by our wedding venue. One of our favorite spots with a large outdoor area and large indoor bar. Good range of beers on tap and food is consistently solid. Kid friendly.
Jettywave is conveniently located down the street from the venue. A large outdoor space and fun, chill atmosphere. Live music on occasion. The cocktails are creative and delicious, as is the food. Outdoor fire pits for those cool evenings.
Another super chill spot with a great variety of beer on tap. Outdoor space with fire pits and rotating food pop-ups on the weekends and live music on some Saturdays.
Outdoor space over looking Pillar Point Harbor. Live music on occasion.
Best BBQ in the area hands down.
Huge outdoor area. Will be packed on 4th of July due to its location on Main Street. Fun vibe. Highly recommend the nachos and margaritas.
This late night dive bar is a go-to spot in the area. Well known live music venue as well. Also, sports bar option with multiple TVs to watch. Bloody Mary's recommended.
A warm, family friendly Italian restaurant that's a go-to in the area. Offers a variety of food and drink options.
Great little coffee, breakfast or lunch spot. Small and fills up fast but worth a short wait. Also offers beer and wine.
Popular coffee spot with large assortment of pastries and panini sandwiches.
All the beers here are excellent and good vibes abound. Rotating food trucks for grub. Inside and outdoor spaces.
Cozy coffeehouse serving breakfast bites and pastries, along with a selection of teas.
Cozy main stay sushi spot just off Main Street downtown HMB.
Dad’s Luncheonette is a historic train caboose on scenic Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay, serving American roadside classics with a California focus, showcasing the best of coastal farms in the area.
When you think of a coastal seafood spot, Sam's is probably the closest to the definition. Home to a casual indoor and outdoor restaurant as well as an always packed, vibrant bar. Reservations highly recommended.
Very spacious Peruvian spot near our venue. Highly recommend grabbing drinks and food from the bar upstairs with a view of the harbor. Food is top notch. Love the cebiches here.
Novelty brunch spot at to the HMB airport. Indoor and outdoor seating with a view of the planes taking off and landing.
We love this pub. It's a short 5-10 minute drive down Hwy 1 just south of downtown. Good sports bar. If you have a horse you can park it out front!