Moss Beach, California
Moss Beach, California is a must-visit for top outdoor adventures. The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve offers a scenic hiking trail that is moderately difficult, perfect for those seeking a bit of a challenge. Along the trail, you'll encounter unique natural features like tide pools, seals, and a variety of marine life. Another best trail is the Pillar Point Bluff Trail, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the famous Maverick's surf break. This trail is easy to moderate, making it suitable for all ages. If you're looking for water activities, Moss Beach offers kayaking and paddleboarding near the shore. For bird watching, the Moss Beach Park is a great spot. The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Moss Beach are truly a treat for those who appreciate the great outdoors.
Top Spots in and near Moss Beach
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Moss Beach, California
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
5.00.89 mi / 46 ft gainLocated beside a residential neighborhood, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve offers a rare glimpse of life in the northern California intertidal zones. There are parking spaces and restrooms available, as well as ranger-led guided tours. Be sure to check the tide charts and go during low tide (preferab...Read more -
Moss Beach, California
Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach
4.50.79 mi / 105 ft gainThe Cypress Tree Tunnels are a quick jaunt from San Francisco (22 miles) and make for a great half-day trip. Getting here depends on traffic, but 30 minutes from the center of the city is doable. Parking is relatively easy. You can either park at the south end of the area at the Cypress Cove entr...Read more -
Moss Beach, California
Pillar Point Bluff Loop
4.71.84 mi / 154 ft gainSitting on a 140 acre bluff top, the Pillar Point Bluffs are a simple, easy hike with breathtaking views throughout. The bluffs are 22 miles from San Francisco – a 30 minute drive depending on the traffic. There is a small 10 car or so parking lot off of Airport Blvd, but there are two additional...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
McNee Ranch to Planet of the Apes
4.88 mi / 1427 ft gainMcNee Ranch to Planet of the Apes is a 4.8 mile trail located near Montara State Beach that offers ocean views when it is not too cloudy. You can get amazing views when you hike up above the clouds. This hike follows one of the main trails up the mountain, but there are many smaller trails to e...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Catch the Sunset at Maverick's Beach
5.01 miMaverick's beach is most well-known for the Maverick surf competition and the gnarly waves which surface here in the winter months. For the rest of the year, the beach is still a site to see. With huge waves crashing ¼ mile off shore and bluffs towering 100 feet above you, it’s a picturesque plac...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Gray Whale Cove Trail
4.52.23 mi / 367 ft gainGray whale cove trail is a splendid, short, and easy hike for the entire family with beautiful ocean views. The starting point is conveniently located near a parking lot that accesses Montara State Beach. From the south end of the parking lot, follow the trail up through the coastal scrub. Within...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Montara Mountain North & Middle Peaks Loop
4.37.22 mi / 1929 ft gainNOTE: as of 2019, North Peak has been fenced off around the installation of a radio tower and weather station. Additionally, the summit has been found to be a habitat for the endangered San Bruno elfin butterfly. The Gray Whale Cove State Beach is a popular seaside trail that’s just 20 minutes s...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Gray Whale Cove Loop
5.01.22 mi / 518 ft gainStarting at the parking lot adjacent to Gray Whale Cove State Beach, proceed to the start sign indicating "Grey Whale Cove Trail". GWCT is a fun brisk hike with slight elevation gain that should be easy enough to take a small group or even children to. Take note of the tight spaces you may encou...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Paddle Half Moon Bay Jetty
The Half Moon Bay Jetty is a calm place to paddle as it is covered on all sides. There is an opening into the ocean on the far side, but is mostly calm with plenty of beach area to launch. Keep in mind, there are boats in the harbor so keep an eye out. There is also a scenic hike nearby the West ...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Devil's Slide Bunker
4.3The Devil's Slide Bunker is perched out on a point the defiantly juts out into the ocean. The Bunker is covered in constantly changing graffiti, which provides a stunning contrast to the gorgeous seaside. Hop on Highway 1 South. Just south of Pacifica there is a tunnel. Once you go through the t...Read more -
Pacifica, California
Montara Mountain Trail
5.06.77 mi / 1900 ft gainMontara Mountain Trail is a loop trail that takes you through a forest out to ocean views at the top of Montara Mountain. This hike located near Pacifica, California. and can be accessed from Highway 1 as well. If you're looking to do a similar loop hike from the coast, consider Montara Mountain ...Read more -
Pacifica, CaliforniaSurf at Pacifica State Beach
4.5If you're looking for a place to surf and Ocean Beach isn't quite your speed or Santa Cruz is too far, head to Pacifica, specifically Linda Mar. Linda Mar is usually more wind protected and user-friendly than ocean beach. Break out your longboard or hybrid board and head to this beach. There is e...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, CaliforniaCamp at Francis Beach Campground
4.0If you love to log as much water time as possible, this little gem is the campsite for you. Half Moon Bay State Beach is actually four smaller beaches, with a total of two miles of sandy shore, but you'll be camping right at Kelly Ave., one of Half Moon Bay's most consistent surf spots. Keep in m...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Hike Along the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
4.65 mi / 104 ft gainStart at the visitor center along Kelly Avenue. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2016 for each vehicle. You will then be able to enjoy both the Coastside Trail and Francis Beach (plus other beaches) with access to the amenities such as coin-operated showers and a semi-private beach.Th...Read more -
Pacifica, California
Rockaway Beach
5.0Rockaway is a dark sandy beach located in the south of Pacifica, CA. It has numerous hiking trails around it, most notably Mori Point. The Mori Point trail will take you through the hills and overlooks Rockaway Beach. There are paths to come down to the beach. There are biking paths and park...Read more -
Pacifica, California
Mori Point Loop
4.82.54 mi / 276 ft gainStart at the parking lots close to the pier, where bathrooms are also available. Walk along the pier to watch the sunset as it begins. Next, walk along Sharp Park Beach to discover the plethora of wild flowers and friendly locals always ready to guide you on your walk. Take the stairs up to the...Read more
Camping and Lodging in Moss Beach
Pescadero, California
Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA
Santa Cruz North/Costanoa KOA is an eco-adventure campground designed to encourage exploration of the protected California coastline. Th...
