Half Moon Bay is approximately one half mile off Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Whether you're driving from the north or south, take Highway 1 to Kelly Avenue, where you'll find one of three parking lots near Francis Beach. The two other parking lots can be found off Highway 1, one at the end of Venice Boulevard and the other at the end of Young Avenue. From San Francisco, take either Highway 1 or merge onto the Pacific Coast Highway from Interstate 280 South.
For Half Moon Bay State Beach, you can secure year-round reservations through Reserve America (reserveamerica.com) or by calling Reserve America at 800-444-PARK. When making reservations, you will select the specific site that you'll be camping on. At least nine people need to be in your party in order to secure group site reservations.
Half Moon Bay State Beach provides several dozen campsites on Francis Beach. At the time of publication, no hookup sites are available and only a few sites are for tent camping; most campsites are designated for recreational vehicles and trailers. Venice Beach provides flush toilets and showers, while Francis Beach provides coin-operated hot showers. All fires on the campground are limited to the fire rings; campfires along the beach are not allowed.
In addition to the campground's scenic views, enjoy a range of outdoor activities including surfing and surf fishing at Half Moon Bay. During early mornings, you'll find a few local surfers taking advantage of the bigger swells. As it's often crisp and cool, wear jeans along with a windbreaker, sweater or coat. Due to the water's year-round cold temperature and strong currents, swimming is recommended for experienced swimmers only. Whether you're swimming or surfing, a wet suit is highly recommended, as even short swims can cause hypothermia. In addition, enjoy surf fishing, and when the fog lifts in the afternoon, picnic near the shoreline. After lunch, take a walk or bike ride along the Coastside Trail, which runs for three miles along the beach's eastern boundary toward Pillar Point Harbor.
