Montara

 

 

At the northern edge of the San Francisco peninsula’s vast mountain range, Montara is a rugged paradise. Dog-lovers, holiday enthusiasts, and mountain climbers alike enjoy this small community’s friendly and lively spirit. Montara features the best of all worlds - the quiet countryside, towering redwood trees, and a scenic Pacific coastline. Breathtaking views of all three can be enjoyed from the top of North Peak, the final reward at the end of a scenic seven-mile hike.

 

Following the completion of the Point Montara Lighthouse in 1875, the region was first populated by farmers. Trains hoped to bring weekenders to this stop on the Ocean Shore Railroad, but growth was slow. Montara truly began to grow in the ‘50s but has managed to maintain its rural, communal feel. As a result, residents enjoy largely untouched geography and friendly relationships with neighbors.

 

• Beautiful beaches, mature redwoods, towering mountains, and rural small-town charm.
• Attracts visitors from all over for their Halloween festivities and outdoor amenities.
• Close-knit community charm and welcoming nature.
• A 20-mile drive from both downtown San Francisco and SFO International Airport.
  
  

The first small town many people drive through after departing San Francisco, Montara serves as a gateway of sorts to mountainous northern California, protected beneath a canopy of ancient Redwood trees. Despite the close proximity to Silicon Valley, life in Montara is peaceful, serene, and active. Dramatic mountainside trails perched high above sandy beaches provide miles and miles of walking paths to visitors, leading to the Instagrammable Point Montara Lighthouse. Nearby, several adored local eateries boast similar views, matched with seafood brunches and freshly-roasted coffee.

 

Montara’s seaside location has allowed local restaurants and bars to serve just-caught seafood, paired with exquisite wines from the nearby Napa Valley. Often located right on the water, patrons enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with breathtaking views.

 

Across the street from the Pacific Ocean, Here Comes the Sun Coffee House is a brightly-decorated pit stop for caffeine, baked goods, bagels, and other breakfast faves. One of their top-selling morning concoctions is the monkey mocha - a classic mocha with cream de banana topped with decadent whipped cream is a surefire way to get your blood pumping for the day ahead.

 

Also boasting a nearly unbeatable seaside location, Ocean View Cafe is the number one spot for breakfast and brunch. Crab sandwiches, seafood gumbo, and French toast are some of the top sellers enjoyed by locals across the roadway from the Montara Reef Viewpoint. Ocean View Cafe has built its reputation as a neighborhood gem for consistently authentic service with a smile. 

 

Named after the region’s protected marine life preserves, Tidepool sells funky, coastal-themed apparel, accessories, and gifts. Their “pool party” pop-up community gatherings feature small businesses from across northern California. Some of their colorful items include kitchenware, jackets, sunglasses, and handmade jewelry.

 

Montara’s charm is best appreciated through one of their many beaches or trails. Montara State Beach is famous for its tide pools, surf fishing, camping, and beach volleyball. Striking Pacific views can also be seen from atop the Montara Mountain Trail. Beginning in Blue Gum Eucalyptus Forest, the trail gently slopes downhill to the shores. Both the beaches and the trails are perfect places for spending quality time with four-legged friends. In the autumn specifically, Montara attracts visitors from all over for their lavish Halloween celebrations. Trunk-or-treating, hayrides, haunted houses, and scary movie nights have made Montara into the Salem of the west coast.

 

Montara is home to schools adored by locals, including: