Hotels in Half Moon Bay

Nestled along California’s stunning coastline, Half Moon Bay is a seaside sanctuary just south of San Francisco. Known for its breathtaking beaches like Miramar and Moss Beach, this charming destination invites travelers to unwind by the Pacific Ocean. Explore nearby lighthouses, savor fresh coastal cuisine, or stroll through picturesque harbor areas. With its dramatic coastal cliffs and vibrant tide pools, Half Moon Bay offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm, making it an ideal getaway for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a romantic escape. Discover the magic of this coastal gem! For the best hotel rates in Half Moon Bay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Half Moon Bay

Some of the best places to stay in Half Moon Bay are Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf and South of Market. Half Moon Bay, California, offers easy access to vibrant areas like Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf, and South of Market, each with unique attractions. Downtown San Francisco is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring iconic sights and dining. Fisherman’s Wharf provides waterfront views and fresh seafood, while South of Market boasts a trendy atmosphere. Accommodations vary, from luxurious hotels to charming inns, ensuring a comfortable stay, whether in the city or at scenic Half Moon Bay hotels like the Oceano Hotel and Cypress Inn. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Half Moon Bay:

1. Downtown San FranciscoOpens in a new window: Downtown San Francisco is a vibrant hub filled with historic charm and modern attractions, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. With easy access to iconic sites like Pier 39 and the Moscone Convention Center, it's perfect for those looking to explore or conduct business. Notable hotels include Fairmont San FranciscoOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel situated in a historic building that caters to adventurers and business travelers alike, offering various amenities such as a 24-hour business center and adventure sports nearby. Another option is The Ritz-Carlton, San FranciscoOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star property, which focuses on luxury and family-friendly services, providing multiple meeting rooms and childcare amenities. For a luxurious city experience, The St. Regis San FranciscoOpens in a new window stands out with its central location and business facilities, making it perfect for corporate guests.
2. Fisherman's WharfOpens in a new window: Fisherman's Wharf is a lively area known for its waterfront views and family-friendly activities, boasting attractions like Pier 39 and access to the iconic Alcatraz Island. The area offers a range of accommodations, including Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli SquareOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that combines beach access with business amenities, perfect for families. Another excellent choice is Kimpton Alton Fisherman's Wharf, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel allowing pets, located conveniently near shopping options, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. For those seeking romance, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts CollectionOpens in a new window provides a unique experience with its special packages and full-service spa, ideal for couples looking to unwind.
3. South of MarketOpens in a new window: South of Market is a booming area known for its trendy atmosphere and proximity to major attractions like the Chase Center and Moscone Convention Center. This area is well-suited for business and family travelers alike. Home2 Suites by Hilton Alameda Oakland AirportOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, offers essential business services while being pet-friendly, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry companions. Holiday Inn & Suites Oakland Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, provides family-oriented amenities along with business facilities, ensuring comfort for all guests. Lastly, Hilton Garden Inn Oakland / San LeandroOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star hotel, features multiple meeting spaces, catering to corporate needs while providing family-friendly accommodations.

Half Moon Bay is a stunning coastal destination best explored over three days, where travelers can enjoy picturesque beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Activities like hiking, surfing, and birdwatching abound, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, all while soaking in the serene Pacific Ocean views. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Half Moon Bay:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Half Moon Bay at Half Moon Bay State Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a stroll along the scenic coastline. After soaking in the ocean views, head to the Pulgas Water Temple, a serene spot featuring beautiful architecture and lush landscaping—perfect for a peaceful moment. Conclude your day with a visit to Burleigh H. Murray Ranch, where you can explore the historic buildings and enjoy a hike through the picturesque surroundings.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration in the vibrant San Francisco Bay area. Enjoy the stunning vistas and recreational opportunities at Coyote Point Park, where you can walk the trails or picnic with a view of the bay. Next, visit the San Francisco Bay Discovery Site, which offers insights into the rich history and ecology of the bay. Wrap up your day by taking in the beautiful scenery of the bay itself, watching the sunset over the water for a truly memorable experience.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Venice Beach in Half Moon Bay, where the unique atmosphere and stunning views invite you to relax and unwind. Afterward, head to Filoli, a grand estate with beautiful gardens and rich history—perfect for a leisurely stroll through its picturesque landscapes. Finally, make your way to Mavericks Beach, famous for its surfing and breathtaking cliffs, where you can enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery and, if you're lucky, catch some surfers in action.

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Half Moon Bay is in February, November, and December, as hotel rates are lower during these months. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure better prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for discovering the area's main attractions, such as the beautiful beaches and scenic coastal views. This destination offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget looking to enjoy a picturesque getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Half Moon Bay can offer fantastic opportunities for travelers seeking both value and availability. To uncover these deals on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you're more likely to find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To ensure you stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could find the best value for your stay while enjoying the stunning coastal views.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Half Moon Bay.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Half Moon Bay is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bicycle to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Half Moon Bay and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Half Moon Bay

Here are some top-rated dishes in Half Moon Bay, California, United States of America:

• Cioppino: This hearty seafood stew is a beloved dish originating from the Italian immigrant communities in San Francisco. In Half Moon Bay, you’ll find cioppino brimming with the freshest catch, including crab, shrimp, and fish, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with garlic and herbs. It's typically served with crusty sourdough bread, perfect for dipping and savoring every last drop. Enjoying cioppino often becomes a communal experience, bringing friends and family together around a shared pot.
• Fish Tacos: A staple in coastal California, fish tacos in Half Moon Bay are made with locally caught fish, grilled or lightly battered, and served in warm corn tortillas. Topped with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and a zesty crema, these tacos reflect the vibrant flavors of the region. They’re a spontaneous and customizable meal, perfect for enjoying by the beach while soaking in the stunning ocean views.

Best time to go to Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay experiences its lowest average temperatures in January, February, and December, at 52.5°F (11.4°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 62.8°F (17.1°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Half Moon Bay, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.