Best Surfing Beaches in Half Moon Bay

Located near the northern end of the city of Half Moon Bay, Mavericks Beach - also known as Pillar Point Beach - is situated adjacent to Pillar Point Harbor. Mavericks Beach has light brown sand and rocky reefs along its shoreline and is located below the bluff-top Pillar Point Air Force Station. The water near the beach is known for its gigantic and monstrous waves and is extremely dangerous for swimming, so it's recommended to be careful when visiting the beach’s shoreline. Big wave surfing enthusiasts often flock to this location, drawn by the renowned waves and the legend of discovering Mavericks.

Located in Pillar Point Harbor, Pillar Point Marsh Beach is a wide beach with light brown sand. The beach is present near the Pillar Point Marsh Wetlands along with the town of Princeton-by-the-Sea and has sparse vegetation and interesting rock formations along its shoreline. A creek flows through Pillar Point Marsh Beach into the Pacific Ocean. There used to be a wharf near this beach called the Romeo Wharf which was torn down in 2018. Pillar Point Marsh Beach does not have lifeguards. However, the beach has restrooms and walking trails. While the beach allows dogs on leash, they are not allowed on the adjoining wetland. 

Located within Pillar Point Harbor, Pillar Point Harbor Beach is a narrow beach with light brown sand. The beach is situated below the blufftop residential area of El Granada. Pillar Point Harbor Beach is protected by two jetties present around it, which ensure that the water here is calm and the beach is not constantly eroded. Pillar Point Harbor Beach does not have lifeguards. However, it does have restrooms and a boat launch.