Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber: Visiting Half Moon Bay: Eco-Tourism



Coastside Ecotourism - “Experience Nature’s Bounty”
See a list of Ecotourism categories. See a list of Ecotourism businesses. See an Ecotourism map. See a list of Package Tour Suggestions. See a list of Ecotourism events. Order an Ecotourism Map Brochure.


"Responsible travel to natural areas and directly related cultural resources that conserves the environment, provides extensive opportunities to learn and sustains the well being of local people." Welcome to the Half Moon Bay Coastside. Our 80 miles of coastal splendor is filled with an abundance of natural, historical and cultural wonders – from some of the richest marine reserves and wetlands on the California coast to small working farms where you can explore a barnyard and dine on farm-fresh organic produce; from shopping on historic Main Street to fishing for wild salmon or albacore tuna. The Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce & Visitors’ Bureau is working with the farmers, fisherman and the business community to offer you the visitor new and exciting hands-on activities and a chance to meet our local residents who make the Coastside such a special place; at the same time, to build a balanced and sustainable tourism economy. We call this “Coastside Eco-Cultural Tourism.” To be listed these local businesses have agreed to follow important environmental standards. Following is a menu of adventures you can share with your friends and family. We have listed the approximate time needed to visit participating businesses. Use the symbols to find compatible locations to continue your adventure. For example, you may want to go sportfishing and then take your fish to a goat cheese farm and have it barbequed while you learn how to make your own cheese. Several of our heritage-tourist businesses work with each other to make your experience as complete as possible! Have dinner on a working farm, do family or corporate bonding in a yurt or tepee, or tour a wholesale flower farm. To be listed these local businesses have agreed to follow important environmental standards. Choose from our many unique Coastside Eco-Cultural Tourism businesses to specifically tailor an experience that fulfills your desires and interests. Advanced reservations are required. Also, while on the Coastside we encourage you to incorporate our many parks, hiking trails, bird refuges, lighthouses, and sanctuaries into your visit.
Ecotourism CATEGORIES
Agri-Tourism: Coastside Agri-Tourism refers to activities conducted on family-owned, smaller-scale farms, such as farm tours, farm stays, winery tours, and native plant nurseries, as well as farmers markets, road-side stands and pick-your-own operations. These programs combine history with modern farming techniques. Often they are showcases of historic homes and organic farming techniques, and all provide great food and a chance to learn how farms provide us with food, fiber, open space, vistas, historic resources and wildlife habitat.
Cheese Farms Farm Tours & Farm Stays Farmers' Markets & Stands Herbs, Tea, and Native Plants Garden Terrace Wineries Environmental Educational Ranch

Wildlife & Natural Areas: The variety of wildlife and natural areas found on the Coastside is astounding, from whale watching in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to birding at some of the richest wetlands on the California coast and in giant redwood forests; to state, country and local parks and open space preserves. These resources provide many opportunities for outdoor recreation and learning adventures. Visit these public lands and sign-up with the following local guides and service providers for a memorable experience. But remember, don't disturb wildlife, leave no trace and make advanced reservations, as some sites have limited entry.
Tide Pools Bird Refuges Bike Rentals Fishing Ano Nuevo State Reserve Kayaking Classes & Trips Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Whale Watching Wild Animal Sanctuary

Pillar Point Harbor: Pillar Point Harbor is a working fishing harbor and the gateway to the National Marine Sanctuary. Interact with fisherman and learn how they work sustainably as they weave their crab traps and repair their nets and gear. Ask about the harbor’s award winning recycling program for fishing line and byproducts. Watch them unload their daily catch of squid, crabs, salmon, rockfish, albacore tuna, sad dabs or halibut. Access the informational kiosk at the Harbor Master’s office and buy fish straight off the boat. Afternoons and weekends are best for this educational journey along the docks of our harbor.
Fishing Kayak Classes & Trips Whale Watching

Rich Historical Past: The Coastside comfortably takes its place between the dramatic, green Santa Cruz Mountains to the east and the powerful blue-green Pacific Ocean to the west. Because of the geographic isolation, the area has not changed dramatically over the years. Dating back to 1840, Half Moon Bay is the oldest town in San Mateo County. Traces of its past are visible in the many historic buildings as you explore the "downtown".
Historical Sites & Info Self-Guided Walk of Downtown Half Moon Bay

And More: Pillar Point Harbor is a working fishing harbor and the gateway to the National Marine Sanctuary. Interact with fisherman and learn how they work sustainably as they weave their crab traps and repair their nets and gear. Ask about the harbor’s award-winning recycling program for fishing line and byproducts. Watch them unload their daily catch of squid, crabs, salmon, rockfish, albacore tuna, sand dabs or halibut. Access the informational kiosk at the Harbor Master’s office and buy fish straight off the boat. Afternoons and weekends are best for this educational journey along the docks of our harbor.
Air Tours Eco-Lodge Conference Centers Nature/Retail Stores Guided Tour Companies & Local Tours Skincare Products

PACKAGE TOUR SUGGESTIONS
Click here for a list of all participating Ecotourism businesses.
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