Moss Beach

 

Twenty miles away from the hustle and bustle of the San Francisco peninsula, Moss Beach is home to miles of untouched California coastline. This quiet beachfront haven enjoys mild temperatures, assuring outdoor activities are comfortable and enjoyable year-round. Rich, natural beauty and an abundance of marine wildlife are appreciated by both locals and those just passing through.

 

First built as a resort town, Moss Beach began to grow after the completion of the Ocean Shore Railroad. Today, the railroad is gone but the untouched beauty of the region still remains. In 1969, the Moss Beach tidepool area, now known as the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, was designated as a natural preserve for plants and marine life. Today, the Reserve draws over 100,000 visitors a year to Moss Beach to appreciate the beauty and quiet charm of the community. 

 

• Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and bluff-top cypress groves, known locally as The Enchanted Forest, are among Northern California’s most undisturbed natural beauties.
• Opportunities to observe marine wildlife and discover beach treasures.
• Several local businesses which have been serving the community for decades.
• A quick 22-mile commute from downtown San Francisco.
  
  

Moss Beach residents feel lucky to live in such virginal settings, despite coastal California’s high profile among tourists. Walks down the beach are especially popular pastimes, along with beach combing. Visitors hunt for sea glass, crystals, sand dollars, and shells and stones. But be forewarned; there is a 'no collecting' policy along the protected areas of Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.

 

Just north of Pillar Point Harbor, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is home to a number of sponges, shellfish, starfish, and larger marine life such as leopard sharks, harbor seals, sea lions and migrating whales. Park rangers and docents offer a wealth of knowledge about this intricate and delicate ecosystem to educate visitors and to ensure its protection for generations to come. 

 

California’s culinary scene is best-known for its Pacific seafood, fresh takes on Mexican classics, and avid wine culture. Moss Beach residents are fortunate enough to have all three of these offerings in their own backyard. 

 

For generously portioned Mexican plates at fair prices, El Gran Amigo Taqueria is Moss Beach’s place to go! Authentic favorites have been paired with fresh California flavors, like tacos, burritos, and nachos, all served with a liberal helping of their signature pico de gallo. 

 

Overlooking Moss Beach and the endless stretch of Pacific blue, Moss Beach Distillery offers delicious steaks and seafood, served in the company of their famous ghost, the Blue Lady, who has been featured on “Unsolved Mysteries,” “Ghost Hunters,” and other paranormal television shows. The ideal place for casual get-togethers, patio days with four-legged friends, or more formal gatherings, this Moss Beach institution has perfected seaside favorites like clam chowder, crab cakes, and fish tacos.

 

The Coastal Vine is Moss Beach’s one-stop-shop to sample wine on-site, then bring bottles back home to enjoy whenever. A plethora of red, white, rosé, and sparkling options paired with scrumptious charcuterie plates make The Coastal Vine one of the region’s most intimate spots to enjoy a date night, or simply unwind. Locally owned and operated, you'll receive service with a smile and feel right at home in this neighborhood gem.

 

Despite its picture-perfect location along California’s northern coast, this particular stretch of coastline remains largely untouched. Pillar Point Bluff is a 220-acre bluff consisting of trails and viewing points for the world-famous Maverick surf break, home to the largest waves on the west coast. Just north of Pillar Point Bluff, the Moss Beach Trailhead offers frequent benches to reward hikers with stunning scenery whenever they sit down and rest.