Half Moon Bay Local Customs

  Can't remember the name of these cool...
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  • Can't remember the name of these cool looking ones
      Can't remember the name of these cool...
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  • Fairytale Pumpkins
      Fairytale Pumpkins
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  • Green Pumpkins (can't remember the name)
      Green Pumpkins (can't remember the name)
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  • Variety of Sugar Minis
      Variety of Sugar Minis
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  •   Local Customs
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Best Rated Local Customs in Half Moon Bay

Pumpkin Festival
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SJTravel 162 reviews

Half Moon Bay loves their pumpkins. They have several pumpkin patches and they take so much pride in them. So their annual Art and Pumpkin Festival is something that they take a lot of pride in as well. The festival takes place every year some time in October. It is a two day event (on a weekend). Each day provides you with a lot of live entertainment. When I went, I think there were 2 or 3 different stages. There is a lot of great booths with local crafts, art, and food. And they have lots and lots of pumpkins. You can view all of the great pumpkins that have won contests, like the year's largest. They also have some carved pumpkins which are usually quite creative. It is a lot of fun and free to attend.
The only drawback is getting to and from Half Moon Bay and parking can be a turn off. I suggest getting there early to avoid the midday traffic surge. Because there are only a couple of ways to get into Half Moon Bay, the traffic can be horrible, so expect that. Parking can be a bit far, but the good thing is that they are so orgnized because they have been doing this for years.

Updated Jul 27, 2007

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Take a Stroll on the Coast Side Trail
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SJTravel 162 reviews

Many people who come to Half Moon Bay enjoy the beach in one way or another. A great way to enjoy the beach and not get your feet dirty is to do like a local and take a walk on the Coast Side Trail. The trail follows the beach and it is really easy to follow. You can really park anywhere at one of the beach parking lots off of Highway 1 and then start the walk from there. The trail offers a lot of spectacular views. You obviously get to see the amazing beach and the ocean. You will also pass by the beautiful homes and businesses that line the beach. The trail is also lined with several native plants and trees, and some not so native plants. You may also be lucky enough to see some pretty cool animals along the trail as well. My friend once saw a dolphin, but I have never been so lucky. The length of the trail provides a pretty good workout, I often see people running the trail and also biking along the trail. It is mostly flat and sometimes paved. Along the walk, you will be greeted by the friendly locals also enjoying the day. If you get a chance, I recommend taking the walk on a weekday evening because it is so beautiful and peaceful without the crowds. The trail provides plenty of opportunities for you to hop down to the sand and into the water, if that is your desire.

Updated Sep 21, 2007

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Pumpkin Patch Hopping...
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SJTravel 162 reviews
Pumpkin patch display

An October treat is visiting one or more of the many pumpkin patches in Half Moon Bay. Many people who live in the Bay Area, drive out to the coastal town to partake in the custom. Each of the different patches has something different to draw in a customer...pony rides, hay mazes, western towns, haunted houses, etc. It is not necessary to buy a pumpkin in order to partake in the fun. You can go just to go, take pictures, see the already decorated pumpkins, or see the huge pumpkins grown that year. The patches are all along Highway 92 and Highway 1. I definitely recommend going to see the different types of pumpkins and the fun displays. It is a nice fall activitiy for the kid in everyone.

Written Oct 24, 2007

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Pumpkins, pumpkins, and more pumpkins....
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SJTravel 162 reviews
Fairytale Pumpkins
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For the greatest variety of pumpkins, I recommend going to Half Moon Bay. There are plenty of pumpkins to choose from at the many Pumpkin Patches in the coastal town. You have your regular sugar variety (great for eating) and they come in many shapes and sizes. Cinderella pumkpins that look like they can turn into Cinderella's coach. Fairytale pumkins, which change colors (green to orange)...I think they are my favorite. They also have Long Island Cheesecake, Bootle Necks, and so many more of different colors and sizes. If you are curious about the different types, ask someone at a pumkin patch, they would be more than happy to talk to you about them. Also, you can get some fun ideas for displays.

Written Oct 24, 2007

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