The historic downtown is home to numerous shops, art galleries, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, and other businesses. Local beaches and parks can be accessed by pedestrians, bikes and equestrians. Golf can be enjoyed at two of California's finest courses. The City and coastside are home to numerous nurseries and farms. The Pumpkin Festival held in October draws hundreds of thousands of people to the coast to enjoy its panoramic vistas, fine cuisine, arts, crafts and genuine hospitality.
Temperatures are mild and the valleys are rich.
Half Moon Bay and the coastside are proud of their floriculture center where roadside stands sell locally grown artichokes, greens, root vegetables, beans and herbs. You can not top the fresh seafood available everywhere in restaurants or to take home and prepare yourself. Residents of this charming community live a lifestyle that many think no longer exists in California. Neighbors care about each other, schools are important, and there is a sense of real community. Government Half Moon Bay has a population of approximately 11,179 and is governed by a five member elected City Council.