Half Moon Bay

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Half Moon Bay, CA

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A coastal community famous for its fantastic surf, arts scene, and beautiful vistas.

Coastal California Surfing Beaches Arts and Culture Beach Town

The steep, curved cliffs that form the crescent shape of Half Moon Bay form a dramatic setting for this beachfront community. Half Moon Bay is a dream destination for surfers -- it features some of the tallest waves in California, and this is where the Mavericks Surf Contest is held. The "Mavericks," as the area is known to surfers, can have waves as tall as 60 feet. If you can tear yourself away from the stunning coastline, you'll enjoy easy proximity to nearby San Mateo (12 miles northeast), San Francisco (27 miles northeast), and San Jose (38 miles southwest).

If you aren't a big-wave surfer, you'll still love renting in Half Moon Bay -- even if it is just for the views alone. The 181-acre Half Moon Bay State Beach is ideal for beachcombing, sunbathing, picnicking, or just relaxing and watching the surfers. The park also offers hiking and biking trails and a campground. You can also watch the boats in Pillar Point Harbor, enjoy the art galleries and workshops downtown, attend the annual Art and Pumpkin Festival, or visit some of the city's historic sites.

Rent Trends

As of December 2024, the average apartment rent in Half Moon Bay, CA is $1,242 for one bedroom, $2,454 for two bedrooms, and $3,506 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Half Moon Bay has increased by 1.2% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$1,242/month
460 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Half Moon Bay, CA

Transportation

58

Somewhat Walkable

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.

64

Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.

Schools

El Granada Elementary

Public

Grades K-5

318 Students

5
out of 10

Alvin S. Hatch Elementary

Public

Grades K-5

542 Students

3
out of 10

Manuel F. Cunha Intermediate

Public

Grades 6-8

584 Students

4
out of 10

Half Moon Bay High

Public

Grades 9-12

1,024 Students

6
out of 10

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • Half Moon Bay State Beach
  • Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park
  • Elkus Ranch Environmental Education Center
  • Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
  • Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

Airports

  • San Francisco International
  • Metro Oakland International

Top Apartments in Half Moon Bay

Houses for Rent in Half Moon Bay

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