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PrintMoss Beach Marvels
Less than an hour from San Francisco or San Jose but thriving at a gentler pace ruled by the moon’s magnetic pull, the hamlet of Moss Beach unfolds its magic. Along the coast, the twice-daily ebb of ocean tides exposes an otherwise hidden world. Life slows down to match the rhythm of the sea as beachgoers scan the rocky reefs for hermit crabs, starfish, and anemones. Moving inland, visitors find an unpretentious seaport with locally owned shops and restaurants, where friendly conversation is just as important as commerce.
BEACHCOMB Consult a tide table. When the tide drops to one foot or less, show up at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve to view the splendors of the reef. Proper timing is critical for the maximum “reveal.” Below-zero tides show off the greatest variety of intertidal treasures. 650.728.3584, fitzgeraldreserve.org
SIP Do as the locals do. Imbibe in a Mavericks Amber Ale while you listen to live music at the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. You might find yourself seated on a barstool next to brewmaster Alec Moss or one of the coast’s surfing legends. 650.728.2739, hmbbrewingco.com
LUNCH Order a Dungeness crab quesadilla on the Moss Beach Distillery’s outdoor deck, then scan the sea for the telltale spouts of passing gray whales. If the fog moves in, wrap up in a wool blanket (they’re provided) and snuggle with your sweetie by the gas fire pits. 650.728.0220, mossbeachdistillery.com
STAY The casually elegant Oceano Hotel & Spa offers 95 fireplace suites with private balconies overlooking Pillar Point Harbor. Eco-friendly features include organic bamboo linens, low-VOC paints, and chemical-free room cleaning. 650.726.5400, oceanohalfmoonbay.com
BROWSE Savor a fair-trade latte while perusing the selection of native perennials at Blue Sky Farms Nursery & Café. If you are thinking about replacing your water-guzzling lawn, you’ve come to the right place. 650.726.5999, blueskyfarmsltd.com
Do you love a leisurely drive along the Northern California Coast? Then explore these laid-back beach destinations: Davenport, Capitola, Moss Landing, Pescadero.
