Elmar Beach at Half Moon Bay State Beach

Elmar Beach is a section of Half Moon Bay State Beach between Francis and Venice Beaches. Pilarcitos Creek pools up and sometimes breaches to the ocean at Elmar Beach (at other times it can flow all the way to Venice Beach). This pool also cuts off the most direct beach access from a Half Moon Bay neighborhood behind Elmar Beach. A long footbridge over the creek and wetlands eventually drops you off at Elmar Beach if coming from the north.

Since many of the other beaches near Half Moon Bay have easier access, they will be busier than this spot. You will be rewarded with relative solitude if you venture out to this area. Swimming is dangerous here due to cold water temps and strong rip currents.

To get to Elmar, just walk or bike the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail from the day-use parking lots at Venice Beach (north) or Francis Beach (south). If you are staying at the Francis Beach Campground, it’s just a short walk north on the trail or the beach from your camp spot.

Address

End of Venice Blvd or Kelly Ave
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Phone

650-726-8820

Park Name

Half Moon Bay State Beach

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on beach, but OK on Coastal Trail if leashed

Fees

Fee for parking

Activities

Hiking, Biking, Fishing, Birdwatching, Beachcombing

Amenities

Paved Bike Path, No Facilities

Links

Tide Chart
Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Quality
Water Temps