Half Moon Bay

📍 Local Knowledge

Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County is a semi-exposed beach and point break complex that picks up west to northwest swells, offering both long peeling lefts and rights over varying terrain. It performs best around mid to high tide with light offshore winds from the east or southeast, and tends to be most consistent from October through March when winter swells arrive. The bottom is primarily sand, shaped by shifting sandbars, with occasional submerged rocks near the point. The lineup ranges from moderately crowded near the main beach to quieter at the point. Hazards include rip currents, cold water, shifting sandbars, and submerged rocks, so caution and local knowledge are recommended.