About Half Moon Bay
Established not long after San Francisco was founded just 25 miles to the north, Half Moon Bay began as an agrarian community for the St. Francis de Asis Mission. The once-rural community, like San Francisco, attracted a culturally diverse community and remains so today.
Along with its fishing industry, the community thrives on tourism – the weather is mild year-round and rarely hot, and the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay offers visitors a luxury experience. The crescent-shaped bay is also known for Mavericks and attracts surfers looking to ride the coast’s giant waves. Because of it’s diversity, Half Moon Bay’s food scene is influenced by global flavors and often feature’s the area’s signature fresh seafood.
The quiet coastal community makes a perfect getaway spot for weddings, organizational retreats, private parties or beautiful sunset photo shoots on the beach. Located in San Mateo County, Half Moon Bay is just a short drive from San Francisco and Silicon Valley and is convenient to other major cities including Los Angeles, San Diego and San Jose.
Attractions in Half Moon Bay
While it’s only a short drive from San Francisco’s many activities, Half Moon Bay has its own entertainment, education and interesting attractions. Because of the city’s agreeable weather and frequent sunshine, outdoor enthusiasts of all types will enjoy everything the coastal community has to offer.
- Surfer’s Beach
As its name suggest, Half Moon Bay Jetty, also known as Surfer’s Beach, is home to some of the best waves along the northern California coast. Half Moon Bay is known for its mavericks – large, breaking waves – and Surfer’s Beach is a prime place for beginner and intermediate surfers to learn and enjoy the sport. Even if you’re not a surfer, you can still enjoy the picturesque beach – it’s a great place for a picnic, and the area is pet friendly.
- Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Constructed in 1872, Pigeon Point Lighthouses is one of the tallest lighthouses in the country. It also makes for a perfect Half Moon Bay photo shoot location as it’s one of the most-photographed lighthouses in America. The view from the top of the tower is stunning, looking out for miles over California’s smooth coastline. The grounds for the lighthouse are also great for wildlife viewing, like seals, whales and many kinds of birds.
- Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
The tide pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve are perfect for families to explore everything California’s coastal environment has to offer. Tide pool explorers can see different types of intertidal species, including algae, crabs, sea sponges, starfish, shellfish and various species of fish.
- The Old Course
Golfing against the spectacular backdrop of the Pacific Ocean is an experience like no other in Half Moon Bay. The Old Course was designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer and has hosted many US Open Qualifiers over the years. The course features varying degrees of difficulty as played by the master himself, and the final hole is one of the highest-ranked holes in the country.
Production Locations in Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a city in love with the Pacific Ocean, and it features beautiful production spaces for projects seeking to capture the beauty, diversity and even danger that it has to offer. Along with miles of beaches, you’ll find rolling parklands and elegant residential neighborhoods perfect for filming or photographing projects.
- Half Moon Bay State Beaches
Half Moon Bay is a scenic city in many different ways, especially sandy beaches framed by rugged cliffs. With a mild climate year-round, Half Moon Bay beaches are perfect for a sunset photo shoot or filming an exciting surfing scene. The beaches are easily accessible, pet-friendly – pet photo sessions are trending – and are spacious enough for a production crew of any size.
- Film Studios
If you require special equipment or atmosphere for some scenes, you’re in luck. Half Moon Bay is home to several professional film studios. You’ll be able to set up props and sets, utilize a sound stage, or tap into the creativity and experience of a professional video production and editing staff.
- Upscale Restaurants
If you’re looking to get that inspiring date scene just right, consider renting out event space in one of Half Moon Bay’s upscale eateries. Many feature scenic al fresco dining options which are a perfect backdrop for a romantic film scene. If you’re also looking for a bit of privacy, consider a captivating courtyard with an elegant yet casual atmosphere.
Event and Meeting Venues in Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a perfect location for many different types of events, from luxurious beachfront wedding ceremonies to corporate retreats and fundraising galas. You’ll find a wide variety of event and meeting venues to suit every need, offering your guests a memorable getaway experience for both work and play.
- Restaurants
Half Moon Bay is known for its beautiful fresh seafood, and local restaurants in the city do not disappoint in terms of both food and ambiance. Half Moon Bay’s restaurants, from casual to upscale, can make a gorgeous wedding venue or serve as the perfect luxury lunch for leadership retreats. Large and small gatherings can be accommodated in unique surroundings, like a wonderful wine barrel room in an authentic Italian restaurant.
- Public and Private Beaches
Give the gift of sunshine and salty sea air for that special occasion – birthdays, graduation celebrations, wedding ceremonies and more. Half Moon Bay’s numerous public and private beaches can accommodate gatherings of any size. Pets and potlucks are welcome!
- Private Homes
Whether you’re looking for a secluded den to get down to business or a beachfront porch to propose to your partner, you’ll find both in some of the area’s elegant residences. There are many homes situated right on the beach, as well as those located in the heart of the city’s nightlife and Main Street districts.
- Events Center
For hiring events, conferences, seminars and other professional or education events, consider using an event center, which can usually accommodate all your needs. The facility can be set up in a number of configurations, has room for more than 100 people, and often has private rooms for breakout sessions, interviews, administrative work or other necessary tasks.