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Half Moon Bay State Beach
Overview
Half Moon Bay State Beach offers a serene coastal retreat where the rugged Pacific coastline meets miles of sandy shores. Comprising four distinct beaches—Francis, Venice, Dunes, and Roosevelt—this state park provides a picturesque backdrop for RVers looking to escape the city. The Francis Beach Campground serves as the primary hub for overnight visitors, offering a rare opportunity to camp directly overlooking the ocean in Northern California. It is a place defined by the constant rhythm of crashing waves and refreshing salt air.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just 30 miles south of San Francisco, the park is remarkably accessible while feeling worlds away from the urban bustle. The surrounding area of Half Moon Bay is famous for its historic downtown, local art galleries, and coastal agriculture. The park itself is nestled along a stretch of bluff-top terraces, providing panoramic views of the water. To the east, visitors will find rolling hills and coastal scrub, while the west is dominated by the vast Pacific Ocean, making it a prime destination for sunset enthusiasts.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground at Francis Beach features sites specifically designed to accommodate both trailers and motorhomes. Many of the campsites provide electrical hookups, which is a significant convenience for a state park setting. While individual water and sewer connections are not available at the sites, the park offers a central dump station and potable water fill-up points. Visitors also have access to clean restrooms and coin-operated showers, ensuring a comfortable stay while maintaining a connection to the natural environment.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Coastside Trail, a paved multi-use path that runs for miles along the bluffs, perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely sunset stroll. The beaches are ideal for beachcombing and birdwatching, and the nearby Pillar Point Harbor offers a chance to see local fishing fleets or enjoy fresh seafood. During the winter months, the area becomes a destination for whale watching, while the autumn season brings famous local pumpkin festivals to the nearby farms.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who value scenic coastal views and direct beach access over the high-end amenities of a private resort. It is a fantastic choice for families looking for a weekend getaway or coastal road-trippers navigating the iconic Highway 1. Because of the limited hookups, it best suits RVers who are comfortable with a rustic camping experience while still enjoying the modern convenience of on-site electricity. It is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys the misty, atmospheric beauty of the California coast.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Gregory Golie
I absolutely loved it. Went for my birthday and loved it. Camped next to the beach and enjoyed listening to the waves crash all night long.
Joyce Rodriguez
This is a public beach with ample picnic tables. It also has campground. Parking is $10.00 for day use to the beach. I walked by the water side and reach poplar beach…
Michelle Riley
Super cute RV park-ish campground. A couple people did have tents but it’s mostly an RV park. The best sites back up to the ocean and each has its own sandy path to the beach and its own little sandy area at the top of the hill to put chairs that overlooks the ocean and sunset.
Nidhi Baid
Such a beautiful location, easy access to beach and there are showers and flushable toilets! Most of the campsites are designed for RVs but work great for tent camping as well. They have running water, picnic table and fire pit. Do carry cash if you want firewood from the camp host, it was $15 when we visited. But also this campsite is in 6 min driving distance to Safeway, so easy to get firewood or anything you forgot from there. Sunset walk along the beach was our favorite. Also biking the half moon bay trail, oh so gorgeous! Can’t wait to camp here again
Angelica K
I had the opportunity to camp here a few weeks ago and loved every moment! There were lots of RV campers while we did the traditional tent and car. Our group were in sites #13 and #14 if I'm not mistaken, and are a close but also a good distance away from the bathrooms as well as right in front of the bike paths. There is a small visitor entrance by the front before you enter and a day use parking lot for day visitors. It's a $10 parking fee. From what I caught of the remaining sunset light, it is so beautiful. The wildflowers are amazing. I'm glad we went before it was too hot, so there were basically no bugs. Since it's close to the beach, it's very windy so definitely bundle up for those chilly nights. I could hear the ocean every night which was so soothing and also helped knock me out lol. Camping is one of my favorite activities and I'm so grateful to be able to go this year. Have fun, remember to pack out what you bring in and leave no trace, respect wildlife and stay present. Happy camping!