Half Moon Bay, California
Half Moon Bay, California is an awe-inspiring destination for outdoor adventurers. With its picturesque beaches, lush forests, and winding trails, it's no wonder why it's a top destination for exploring and experiencing nature's wonders. From kayaking in the bay to exploring the nearby redwood forests, there are plenty of must-visit attractions in and near the area. For the adventurous, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The best trails take you through the majestic redwoods, offering breathtaking views and a chance to spot wildlife. For a day of relaxation, you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach or take a boat tour to view the stunning coastline. For a truly unique experience, you can take a guided tour of the historic Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. No matter what you choose, Half Moon Bay, California is the perfect place for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Top Spots in and near Half Moon Bay
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Livermore, California
Hike the East Shore Trail Loop
3.7 mi / 1040 ft gainThis hike is best done during the spring, fall, or winter when moderate temperatures make the hike more comfortable. Be warned that this hike has a large elevation change despite being less than 4 miles. Starting at the Arroyo Road Staging Area, take the East Shore Trail east, heading towards a s...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Photograph the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum
5.0No matter the time you'll decide to visit the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum, you'll have thousands of interesting plants and birds to see and watch. The Arboretum is located on the west side of UCSC campus, between the main campus entrance and the west entrance. Parking is 5$ for adults and 2$ for chil...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Hike Natural Bridges to Lighthouse Field
3.54.8 mi / 121 ft gainThis is a paved trail that can be used for hiking, jogging, or walking. It offers over 2 miles of beautiful California coast. Walk through flowers, see the jagged cliffs, and of course the lighthouse at the end! This walk can be done from either direction. Start at Natural Bridges and head We...Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Camp at Juniper Campground in Mount Diablo SP
Mount Diablo's summit in Mount Diablo State Park rises to 3,848ft, with Juniper Campground in Mount Diablo SP is at approximately 3,000ft in elevation. Juniper Campground overlooks the valley below and some of the San Francisco Bay. Reservations for Juniper Campground can be made at Reserveamer...Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Juniper to the Summit Loop Trail and Meridian Ridge
6.56 mi / 2037 ft gainJuniper to the Summit Loop Trail and Meridian Ridge is a loop trail that is strenuous located near Diablo, California.Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Southern Lime Ridge Loop
4.05.57 mi / 1089 ft gainThe Southern Lime Ridge Loop is a trail system located near Walnut Creek, CA. There is a parking lot at the trailhead located across the street from the Boundary Oak Golf Course. The trail is fairly exposed with limited shade, so bring appropriate sun protection especially on the warmer days. D...Read more -
Martinez, California
Muir Farm And Mount Wanda: John Muir Nature Trail
2.59 mi / 512 ft gainMuir Farm And Mount Wanda: John Muir Nature Trail is a loop trail located near Martinez, California.Read more -
San Geronimo, California
Roys Redwood Preserve Loop
5.02.37 mi / 430 ft gainRoy's Redwoods Preserve is an easily missed pocket of Redwoods off Nicasio Valley Road in Marin County. Don't miss it: heading North on Sir Francis Drake Blvd turn right onto Nicasio Valley Rd--the gate for this little park is about a half mile up on the right. From the main entrance you enter a ...Read more -
Livermore, California
Hike to Murietta Falls
4.012 mi / 4175 ft gainGet ready for one of the toughest, lung busting hikes in the east bay with over 6-miles and 4,000ft of climbing in one direction. When you make it to the hike, it's also important to realize that without recent rain, there many not actually be a waterfall. With that said, you're still getting in ...Read more -
Livermore, California
Del Valle Regional Park
4.0Looking for a quick summer escape filled with stand up paddling, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and picnics? Look no further than Del Valle Regional Park. Consistently considered one of the best campgrounds in the Bay Area, the centerpiece of Del Valle is a 5-mile long lake that allows swimming, fish...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Natural Bridges State Beach
4.3Natural Bridges State Beach is a wonderful place to photograph located in Santa Cruz off of West Cliff Drive. This is a great place to practice long exposure photography to capture awesome water movement as it passes through the "Natural Bridge" formation. The best time to shoot this spot is at ...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Surf at Natural Bridges State Beach
4.5Natural Bridges is off of West Cliff Drive to the north of popular Santa Cruz break, Steamer Lane. The break is a right point break, which breaks on a rocky shelf and reef. The break is best during sizable swells (NW, SW, and West) and a low tide. Be sure to check the wind, this break gets blown ...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Photograph Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges' Monarch Grove
4.3The park's Monarch Grove provides a temporary home for thousands of Monarchs. From late fall into winter they make this their home and if you time it perfectly you can see them in clusters in the trees. When you reached the Natural Bridges State Park, on the right of the Visitors Center you'll f...Read more -
Livermore, California
Paddle Lake Del Valle
4.0Lake Del Valle is a reservoir located in Livermore, California. The lake has boat motor boats, pedal boats, patio boats, canoes, and row boats available for rent. There is a dock and rental house in the marina.The lake is also a popular destination for picnics, barbecues, and camping. Parking fi...Read more -
Los Gatos, California
Mountain Bike Soquel Demonstration Forest
11 mi / 2070 ft gainAs with many trail systems there are multiple routes and loops available at Sequel Demonstration forest of varying lengths and difficulty. The 3 main trails are all accessed via the same parking area on highland way. The most popular trail is the all skill levels "Flow" trail, followed by two sho...Read more -
Lagunitas, CaliforniaSwim at the Inkwells
4.5These natural swimming holes are filled with water flowing from Kent Lake, so they're usually pretty refreshing. And by refreshing, we mean cold. We know this first-hand by testing the pools in the winter months. Let's just say if you can stay in for more than 5 seconds, you're a hero. If you jum...Read more
