The Coastal Trail that runs from the bluffs next to Half Moon Bay Golf Links in the south to Pillar Point Harbor to the north is one of the most popular, beautiful and well-loved paths on the San Mateo County Coast. It is often cited as one of the main reasons people move to the coast. While only sections of it run through State Park property it links some of the best beaches on the Coastside.
This 11+ mile trail is a combination of paved asphalt and concrete — perfect for strollers, bikes, wheelchairs and walkers — and a crushed gravel section that runs through the Wavecrest property. This section was recently improved and is a perfect path for hikers, runners or walkers who don’t mind slightly rougher terrain. If you are a dog owner, you’ll be happy to know that the entire trail is leashed-dog friendly. While dogs are not allowed on many of our State Beaches, it’s a great place to get you and your four-legged friends some exercise.
The overall goal of the Coastal Trail will be to create a contiguous trail from Canada and Mexico. While this is a long way out, our community has done a great job of filling in most of the expanse along our portion of the San Mateo County coast. You will encounter countless birds, sea life, and wildlife along the way. Frenchman’s Creek Bridge and the John Hernandez Bridges cross picturesque creeks. Golden orange California poppies, primroses and yellow lupines line the trail. Brush rabbits nibble along the trail’s edge. You may even see a long-legged, long-eared jack rabbit bound across your path.
Since it is spring, there is often a stiff wind coming from the north. We recommend starting at Francis State Beach (parking is $10) and follow the paved trail north past Venice Beach (the site of Coastal Wildflower Day), Dunes Beach, and Roosevelt Beach. If you are with your dog, you’ll find many trailside benches to take a rest and take in the view. A favorite is the bench right near the Sweetwood group camp site.
If not, you’ll find many places to access the sand, some with stairs and others that require navigating a path — some can be rather steep. Turn around near the Miramar Beach Restaurant for an approximately 5-mile round trip. Or, at low tides, you could return by walking entirely on the beach.
Whichever way you visit the Coastal Trail, you’ll be sure to enjoy beauty of the beaches and the bluffs the entire way!
– Bill Murray, Coastside State Parks Association Board Member