Too Big to Trail The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail is an amalgam of several trails that run thru HMB and goes for 11.5-miles one-way from start to finish. The southerly end is at the Cowell Ranch Trail in HMB and runs all the way north to Dardanelle Trail in Moss Beach. The Good: *Great views *Easy flat to moderate trails *Trails are mostly AC with some compact dirt, as well, and they are mostly in good to great shape. *Bike, dog, & horse friendly *Multiple beach access *Lots of different (free) parking lots up and down the coast The Meh: *Little to no shade for most of the trail. This isn't really a big deal, as HMB is almost always cloudy, foggy, and cold--but there's always a few days a year where it can get into the 80s and low 90s. The Ugly: *Some of the lots do require payment, so be sure to check signage before parking. Oh, and in case you're wondering, they most definitely *DO* enforce parking. Conclusion: One of my all-time favorite trails in The Bay. read more

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This trail is long and there are a ton of parking locations that I discovered as I walked along this trail. I parked in a spot for $10 and there seemed to be some free parking spots along the trails, but anyway, it was a nice trail! Very flat! Easy access to the beach. But there is no shade at all on the trail, so don't forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and/or sunscreen. We saw a lot of walkers, bikers, campers, and people on horses along the walk. There are a few benches throughout the trail to sit, relax, and enjoy. I would come back if I live closer to HMB! read more

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This place is absolutely beautiful! Nice place to go relax and enjoy the awesome scenery here! Highly recommended

Interesting trail, each section has its own traits. It's truly awesome to be able to walk these paths near the water. I went from north to south through these beaches: Miramar Beach - (paved) closest to the beach you will get Dunes - Venice - (paved) oh so pretty wildflowers (my favorite part!) Francis - Poplar - (somewhat paved) camping ground to the north, starting to branch into dirt paths, many "openings" facing the ocean Wavecrest - Redondo (dirt, semi-rocky) - tree-lined, many branched paths, some lead to cliff so don't walk mindlessly *tip - if you are semi-ok with going down-up slopes I suggest doing this to avoid very round-about path slightly north of Redondo Beach. North side has stair-like paved path I forget now if there is more to this but that's all for now cause I'll be back! read more

Bike, hike, take a breezy walk alone or with your pups, run or even horse ride on the beautiful Half Moon Bay Coastal trail is simply EPIC! It's about 12 miles from start to finish. Trail is relatively easy and flat. Nature beauty from sandy ocean beaches to old ranch lands will be your view! The coastal trails are along gorgeous ocean bluffs, through wetlands with wildlife like coyotes, rabbits, countless birds, sea life, and surrounded under some redwoods, cypress, eucalyptus groves and wild flowers like yellow primrose, purple lupine. California poppies during the spring season. You can start from Half Moon Bay to Princeton-by-the-Sea, Moss Beach, Montara, the Devil Slide trail, or even to Pescadero or Santa Cruz. Since the weather is unpredictable so make sure to wear changeable layers, always carry a jacket and a hat on the trails. Garbage in. Garbage out please. Please help to maintain the coast pristinely clean and beautiful. Enjoy! read more

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Nice walking or running path in half moon bay. I needed to get in a longer run and the terrain changed greatly. One minute in on a path, then trail running and ended at a golf course and had a roundabout way of getting back to the true path. I enjoyed the ocean views along the way! read more

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An easy scenic walk on the Coast that's easily accessible. Plenty of free parking available at Pillar Point Harbor near the boat ramp.The entire trail spans 7.5 miles from the harbor to Half Moon Bay Golf Links. This review is for the section from the harbor to Miramar. There are sweeping views of the coast, the bluffs and surfers. Benches along the trail to relax or take in the sunset. I highly recommend this trail if you are looking for an easy trail and some Vitamin Sea, read more

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Enjoyed a 4 miles walk along this paved coastal trail. We deviated into a worn dirt path at some points during our walks as well to get a closer view of the ocean. It was such a refreshing walk and there were many other walkers and bicyclists as well. Love being near the ocean and watching the waves crash onto the shore. We saw many beautiful flowers along the trail as well as abundance of creaturss as well. We spotted many birds, bunnies and 1 dead snake. read more

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Glad this coastal trail is available again to the dog friendly public. A while back the area at HMB Golf Links was closed to everyone except golfers and that same day, while we were just minding our own business, an entitled golfer almost ran my dogs and I over. Just rude and unacceptable behavior. read more

The Coastal Trail is 11.5 miles. We only walked the trail near The Ritz-Carlton. The trail was quite busy, but it was nice. There are views of the waves on one side and the hotel on the other. read more

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OK, now that I've finally traversed what I assume is the entirety of the coastal trails in Half Moon Bay, I can confidently add another star to my rating. Originally, I just reviewed the section that went through the ritzy grounds of the Ritz-Carlton and remember how I had to give golf carts the right of way on their concrete walks. So bougie. I wasn't aware that I could continue my walk above the golf course and onto Poplar Beach. It wasn't a straight shot because the rock formations along the beach required a more roundabout route. There were several dirt trails I could take across a wide field until I finally came back to the coast. Dramatic cliffs, bracing winds, and permanently windswept trees became the norm as the path led to Francis Beach where everyone in HMB appeared to congregate, as it was dominated by picnic tables and a huge RV park. Things got quieter and more suburban as I continued northward, passing by a series of community beaches. The end point for this stretch was Miramar Beach where I was actually walking on the street (Mirada Road) until I reached the popular namesake restaurant. I walked briefly up Magellan Avenue and reconnected with the coastal trail that stretches to the tourist hamlet of Princeton-by-the-Sea and passes by the surfers waiting for the next curl in their matching black wetsuits. You get extra points if you make it to Pillar Point by way of the streets in Princeton, and then if you're still full of energy, you can make it all the way to Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. It took me a few trips to discover how all these walkways connect because I wasn't looking to break records. But hey, it was worth it for the constant views of the Pacific. RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2OrC8nU read more

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Nice views of the coasts and golf courses. You can also access the beach from near the parking lot south of the Ritz-Carlton. There are several seats near the hotel for anyone to use to just enjoy the views. There's a great outdoor dining area at the hotel, but it may only be for overnight guests (at least according to their website). Trail is well paved and ideal for families with strollers, dog walkers. Great for a quick visit (e.g. 30min) to hiking as far north as Pillar Point. Parking Options: Small parking lot just south of Ritz-Carlton. If full, you can try your luck at RC as they have 25 free parking spots for coastal trail access. Otherwise, head to Redondo Beach for additional parking. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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During the holiday weekend, this trail is not a fun bicycle trail because it's too crowded. Because of a washed out bridge, there is a slight detour at Miramar Beach where you'll have to ride on a protected part of the main road for one block. As you near the Ritz-Carlton from Pillar Point, the last part of the trail is unpaved and rides much like a mountain bike trail with its loose gravel and ruts in the dried clay soil. When it rains, I would definitely stay away from this part of the trail. Parking at the Pillar Point parking lot is free and has clean bathrooms, but be prepared for long lines for the women's room on holiday weekends. Along the trail, I did see several bathrooms or port-o-potties. When you see the Ritz-Carlton, it's time to turn around. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - When you see the Ritz, it's time to turn around - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Beautiful 3.5 mile trail. Wonderful luscious golf course on one side and the coast on the other, a very quiet relaxing, easy trail! + you can bring your amazing dogs :) read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Half moon bay beach - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

This trail is beautiful every day of the year, and it has some of the best views in Northern California. Located right off the highway, you can get to this trail through one main road which comes up pretty quickly when you're driving on the highway. It's easy to miss when you're coming here for the first time! Even on a Saturday afternoon in December, it was super crowded and cold, but the weather was as clear as could be! There are plenty of spots to look over the beach or even sit around and watch the waves from the cliff. Great spot for the family or a date. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Don't know why they call it a trail, more of a side road. There are plenty of foot traffic and in some parts horse traffic and droppings too. The area has a nice view of the houses in the Half Moon Bay area with a bunch of weeds in between. Expected a trail to be away from cars and houses, this is not. read more

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A little boring to do it round-trip. This is, no doubt, a great afternoon walk. The northbound four miles or so is great. The trail is paved and there's plenty of room for bikes and walkers. Dogs and kids everywhere. Great family outing. Take a few diversions and walk down the beach. If you time it just right, you can get dinner at Sams near Half Moon Bay. WARNING: There's a bridge out that requires a detour through a residential area. The detour is well marked and very safe, despite part of it being on HWY 1. The walk back is a little boring. read more

The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail runs along the lovely Half Moon Bay. We started out at the Ritz Carlton and took a leisurely stroll. A bit of fog and a chilly sea breeze today. It was nice to get out and about as the Virus continues. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

This is more of a casual stroll than a work out hike, so challenging wise 3 stars. It's a winding trail that goes in and out from the edge of the pacific coast. So unless you actually walk into the sand (where it is harder to walk/run), a serious sweat is hard to achieve. Zero elevation changes as well. BUT the scenery you are immersed in upon this nice stroll, is just so darn soothing. The aroma of briny sea spray. The caress of the sea breeze to dry any beading of sweat you may achieved. The sun and clouds all taking turns in appearance. The clean crisp air coursing through your lungs. And the breath taking views where cascading cliffs merge with sand, sea and sky. I feel very small here...and that is the point. The trail is maybe 3 miles, but I stopped short of where the massive Ritz Carlton imposes its presence. So I don't know how much further the trail continues south of the Ritz. When you get around that area, you start to share the trail with the golf course and high society entertainment. Which is why I keep my distance from that radius. Just takes away from the purpose on why you're here. I like to park in a large lot off of Kelly St, right by the camp grounds. As others have noted, some try to park by the Ritz, where there is a clearance gate to enter. It is free, but why bother? By starting on Kelly St. you will be hiking north to south, then back obviously. The trail starts off on paved trail. So lots of joggers and bikes to share this stretch. You cross a small bridge, then the trail turns to gravel. Another mile or so another small bridge, then the trail turns to dirt. This is where the hike gets interesting because it is a tad more wild, more plant life, more animal/bird action, less people. And the dirt trails weave around, some go more inland, whilst others perch a dropping cliff to the sea. A round trip jaunt, maybe got me 5 miles of beautiful action, and lots of photo ops and a very nice morning stretch. Pro Tip: I love the coming here at the crack of dawn. No issues with crowds in the beginning, and the views and lighting are unlike anything you would encounter during regular daylight hours. It is so breathtaking, you will not need a drop of caffeine to feel a rush. Feeling small never made me feel so big. #trust read more

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All-time favorite hike! Clean paved paths, biking friendly, kid friendly, stroller friendly, restrooms available at the beginning point/campground area (also open during covid). We have come here a few times in 2020, loved it every single time read more

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3.5 stars! The trail is really beautiful if you can call it a "trail" it's much more of a stroll along the golf course and coastline. You walk along the golf course and have to watch out for golf carts and golf balls. The view is the coastline is beautiful but it isn't what I think of as a trail. There is limited amount of trail and only 2 benches at the very end of the "trail." The trail is paved the whole way and you share the space with guests of the Ritz and golfers. Parking lot is really small too. read more

Small parking area, but we found a spot within minutes after arriving around 2:30pm Saturday. Very easy and well paved walking trail, great beach view with stairway down to beach area. Highly recommended for all ages, it's very windy so make sure to bring a jacket. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Parking sign - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

I love this trail so much. Just to walk parallel to the ocean for hours is lovely! There are a couple nice little benches scattered as you go on the trail which is nice if you feel like stopping to enjoy the peacefulness of the sea. I parked at the Half Moon Bay State Beach lot which was $10 flat (I went on a Saturday morning) and there was so many spaces open when I arrived at around 10:30 AM! The trail is nicely paved so you can take a casual stroll there, but there are a good amount of bikers and pedestrians. I recommend having your mask ready to pull up as you walk by other people. Also, I'd be curious to see if there is anywhere I can park on the street side incase I come more often. read more

Excellent trail along a spectacular stretch of California coastline. Don't forget to stop for a drink at the Ritz-Carleton! The only downside of this trail is parking on weekends. There are many ways to access the trail, but you might need to get creative on weekends. The Coastal Access parking lot on Miramontes Point Road near the Ritz only holds 15 cars. Poplar and Wavecrest Beach parking lots hold more cars. Cowell Ranch is also an option, and there are others. read more

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We're lovin' this trail in Half Moon Bay (near the Ritz!). Views are stunning, air is crisp and clean, pets allowed too! We spent a good 1-2 hours, walking along the trail, embracing the nice views, and looking out into the ocean. :) You can park in the golf parking lot near the Ritz (for free)! read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Views south of Ritz, along the coastal trail! - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Wow what a breathtaking view. I would definitely recommend going early (as in 8-9am) because we were able to find parking easily and there weren't a ton of people. I've heard that this place can get pretty busy and the parking spaces are very limited. The beach looked relaxing but because we had a stroller and you need to go down some stairs - we chose to save it for another day. Great spot to sit and eat a quick lunch. read more

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We use this trail on road bikes so we can only travel 5.5 miles of it before the road turns into gravel. This 11-mile roundtrip trail beginning at Pillar point offers a great scenic ride on a twisting paved trail that is great for both bikers and walker/joggers alike. The trail passes through various beach parks that provide resting spots as well as restrooms. There is currently a clearly marked detour around a specific bridge repair and riders must take great care when sharing the path with other users. Riders face the challenge when riding against the wind, but it's otherwise an easy level ride. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - our rides - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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Pleasurable is the word to describe a bike ride along the Coastal Trail in Half Moon Bay. We parked at Poplar Beach (city lot, $2 per hour using credit/debit card, no cash) and rode north. There are really no hills to speak of, just a few small grades. You pass several beaches (all part of the Half Moon Bay State Beach), benches, picnic tables, and restrooms along the ride. When you reach Miramar, you spend a little time riding on surface streets, then it's back to the trail until you arrive at Pillar Point Harbor. From there we rode on the side streets all the way out to Pillar Point, roughly six miles from our starting point. We then returned the same way, passed our car and rode up to scenic Blufftop Park just south of Poplar Beach. We had a picnic lunch with us, but next time we may eschew the PBJ and stop in at one of the half dozen or so restaurants we passed for a bowl of chowder. The restaurants are all up at the northern end of the ride. You can also ride south from Poplar Beach down by the Ritz-Carlton and through to Cowell Ranch Beach. From there, on weekends the Cowell Purisima Trail is open for a continued ride south for another few miles. Poplar Beach is a good midpoint for riding either north or south. There are several parking lots to the north, but fewer access points south. The trail north of Poplar Beach is almost entirely paved; the trail south from there is mostly dirt/gravel. Finally, the beaches are beautiful! In fact, most of the shoreline along the trail is just one long beach, so you could walk on the sand for miles. read more

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What's not to love about this trail? Gorgeous views! Wind in your face! Soothing surf sounds from below! Easy path that is paved and dog friendly (leashed!) read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

What a scenic, short trail this is. Perfect for a nice walk, just be careful/mindful of the golfers! Whatever you do, don't get hit by a golf ball, ha. The holes seem pretty out of range, not to worry. We went off the paved path a bit but there were quite a few bugs that way. Otherwise, getting a view of the ritz, having coastal access along the way and plenty of wildlife to enjoy...this is one of my favorite trails along the coast (Point Lobos being my absolute fave of course)! read more

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Based on the reviews, we were expecting something quite different! The free parking at the Ritz Carlton is really nice, but the unpaved part of the dirt trail is really long and hazardous for road bikes, and I'd imagine for runners as well! The horse there was really nice though! read more

Paved trail on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort, but once you pass through the gates and move off the hotel grounds, the trail soon becomes very unlevel and not very good for running. Ruts !!! An easy place to turn an ankle. Spoke with one of my fellow runners who said he did exactly that - turn an ankle. Beautiful coastal views (if it's not foggy) is the attraction . . . But the trail itself is in bad shape once you get off the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton. read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Trail ON the grounds of the Ritz Carlton is paved & has beautiful views. - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

The trail is closed at Miranda road. The bridge is gated now and looks like it will be for the foreseeable future. So the trail ends rather abruptly and there is no good detour unless you want to bike on the freeway. read more

I imagine it's a much better bike trail than a walking one. Starting at the southern campgrounds and going to the beach/restaurant end took us an hour and a half. As the road is nicely paved, we were constantly passed by bikes on this narrower trail. After getting through the campgrounds/wooded portion of the trail, views of the coast were great. The ocean breeze made the temperature noticeably cooler. With a dirt trail adjacent to us, we saw many passing horses too! While we appreciated it was dog friendly, I highly advise you keep the dog on leash at all times. We had been walking about a mile with our golden retriever when an officer saw us and stopped us immediately. He sternly reprimanded us and detained the group for 10mins while he wrote us a written warning and did a check on my ID. Apparently dogs off leash is an exciting infraction for these folks. When the trail got close to the beach, we saw plenty of dogs off leash and let her loose there! read more

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail - Hiking Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

This trail is not necessarily a hike, but more of a scenic walking path. However, it offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, access to several beaches, and excellent nature viewing. There's a lot of foot traffic near the Ritz-Carlton, but fizzles out once the coastal trail "ends". From there, you can take the dirt path behind the fence and enjoy more views of the coastal bluffs. Tip: there's a small parking lot just outside the resort, but they also offer free coastal parking! Just go to the gate and tell them and they will give you a parking pass. There's limited parking inside, but it doesn't hurt to go inside and check it out. read more

The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail are mainly covered by asphalt from Marimar Beach to Poplar Street. Beyond Poplar Street, it is off-road biking until you reach Ritz Carlton Hotel. The asphalt portion is safe for kids and lots of fun. We parked at Venice Beach ($10 parking) and head north first to Marimar Beach for coffee. We then head back south toward Ritz Carlton Hotel. The off-road portion is very bumpy and may not be safe for kids. The off-road trail is not well maintain, many holes and some are just next to the cliff you have to be careful when riding with kids. Since the road are not even, the kids have problem keeping on the trail and we have turn back mid way on the trail The entire Coastal Trail with asphalt is at least 3 miles long each way and you share with hiker and runners. Plenty of stop for restroom break and nice view of the ocean along the route. There are so much to explore along the route for the kids. it will be good if they have asphalt all the way to Ritz Carlton Hotel. read more

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Went to Pillar Point Bluff and walked South to see tide pools. Sat afternoon and plenty of parking and not crowded. Went late April on cloudy day. 45 min traffic on way home, but lighter traffic at 35 min to arrive by noon. Saw: mouse, raptors, purple and black aphids, anenonme, small crabs, sand jumping crabs, and other critters. Will definitely be coming here again, but only on cloudy days to avoid the crowd. read more

Loved walking on the beautiful beach trail .... Brilliant weather , clean beach , beautiful view . Easy access to city n restaurant... beautiful bistro nearby... had nice fun day out with friends. read more

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This was a perfect place to spend a sunny summer day. We went on a hike. I would recommend to bring some water and a snack for the trail. The views are gorgeous! read more

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Beautiful coastal trail just on the outskirts of the Ritz. You will pass by the parking lot on the way into the Ritz but the parking lot is small so majority of the time there will not be parking. The trail leads you through the golf course and straight to the stairs down to the beach. read more