Half Moon Bay is a coastal community offering small-town charm, dramatic Pacific Ocean scenery, and an agricultural heritage just 30 miles south of San Francisco. Known for its beaches, farms, the famous Mavericks surf break, and the annual Pumpkin Festival, it provides a relaxed alternative to urban Peninsula life.
Living in Half Moon Bay means embracing coastal California at its most authentic. Residents walk on beaches, explore tide pools, and watch for whales from bluffs above the Pacific. The climate is cool and foggy, significantly different from the warmer Peninsula—perfect for those who appreciate marine air and moody coastal weather. The Cabrillo Unified School District serves local families, with schools that benefit from small-town community support. Weekend activities often center on the outdoors—hiking in Purisima Creek Redwoods, cycling on coastal roads, horseback riding at nearby ranches, or surfing at local breaks. The town's restaurants emphasize fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood from the harbor. While Half Moon Bay attracts visitors, particularly during the October Pumpkin Festival, it maintains genuine community character away from tourist areas.
Living in this Neighborhood
Half Moon Bay occupies a beautiful stretch of San Mateo County coastline, protected from the Peninsula's urban development by the Santa Cruz Mountains. The town's approximately 12,000 residents enjoy a distinctly different lifestyle than their inland neighbors—slower-paced, connected to the land and sea, and defined by the natural beauty that surrounds them. The historic downtown along Main Street features local shops, restaurants, and galleries that cater to both residents and the visitors who come for coastal recreation. Surrounding the town, fields of flowers, pumpkins, and vegetables reflect an agricultural heritage that continues today, with roadside stands and the farmers market offering local produce. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort brings upscale amenities and world-class golf, while the harbor supports a working fishing fleet and recreational boating. Mavericks, the legendary big-wave surf break, has put Half Moon Bay on the global surfing map.
Real Estate Snapshot
Median home price in 2025: $1.7 million
Price per square foot (2025): ~$849
Average days on market: 17
Market trends: Somewhat competitive coastal market
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