Located in San Mateo County in California, Half Moon Bay is home to the world-famous waves of Mavericks, a haven for surfers. It is a peaceful coastal city with a strong connection to the water. If you love swimming, there are many beaches here where you can unwind. One famous attraction is Half Moon Bay State Beach, where you can bask in the sunshine. You can also go fishing or enjoy a picnic with your family. Moreover, the city’s surrounding area is ideal for glamping because of its fantastic scenery that will truly unleash your nature lover’s soul. There are many tents, yurts, and domes to choose from for your outdoor retreat. Browse through this list of the best glamping spots in and near Half Moon Bay, California, and reconnect with Mother Nature.
Weather in San Francisco
- San Francisco enjoys a mild climate year-round, with cool summers and wet winters. According to Weather Spark, average temperatures range from 45°F (7°C) in winter to 70°F (21°C) in summer. The city experiences frequent fog, especially during summer mornings, which typically clears by midday. Rainfall is highest in winter, averaging about 24 inches (610 mm) annually, while summers are mostly dry. So, when visiting San Francisco, pack layers! A light jacket or sweater is essential for cool mornings and evenings, even in summer.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, prices, availability of dates, decor, and a location that facilitates glamping or is close to glamping spots. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 19, 2024.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. Boho-style tent with barbecue facilities (from USD 241)
Fancy staying in a tranquil hideaway with your partner? This boho-style tent at Venture Retreat Center is an excellent choice. You will surely love the vintage yet cozy king bed as well as your own private deck for unwinding. Guests can also use the barbecue grill for fun cookouts. For an additional fee, you can take a dip in the pool and hot tub or just enjoy the night by relaxing in the yard, grabbing a beer, and stargazing with your loved one.
The glamping spot is located in Pescadero, a little seaside town where you can enjoy the pristine beaches and visit local eateries.
Tip from Content Creator
If you stay here, you should take the time to explore Pescadero somewhere along Highway 1. It's so easy to miss but makes a great day trip or weekend getaway. There are beaches but I recommend visiting downtown Pescadero and the local farms around the area. It's a quaint small town with vintage accents everywhere and plenty of historical significance. Most of all, it made me feel like this place was unreal, something that was put together by the folks at Universal Studios.
You can’t say no to a lemon+berry pie while here—especially not at the famed Pie Ranch. Also go to Pigeon Point Lighthouse and have lunch at Duarte’s Tavern, a 4th generation family business that once operated as a Saloon. Try their Soup Latte and artichoke+green chili half and half.
Looking for more to do in the area? Check out Janice's suggested itinerary here: https://wheresjanice.com/pescadero-weekend-itinerary/
Pescadero, California, United States
5.92 km (3.7 mi) from Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
2. Clear dome with mountain views (from USD 348)
Imagine waking up in the middle of a forest while soaking up beautiful mountain vistas. This clear dome is the perfect spot for reconnecting with Mother Nature. If you’re worried about insects, take note that the rental is completely sealed. However, it’s still recommended to bring bug spray in case mosquitoes manage to get in.
The amenities include Jackery 290 battery, a plush queen bed, a camp sink, and a camp shower. You will experience hiking uphill to get to the site where you can take pictures of the incredible view that will surely spice up your Instagram feed. Complimentary parking space is available in an old barn.
Saratoga, California, United States
30.07 km (18.7 mi) from Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic ParkAccommodates: 2
3. Spacious retreat in a lovely garden (from USD 326)
Adorned with intricately designed Moroccan rugs, several glass windows, and wooden floors, this luxury yurt in Santa Cruz will give you a boho vibe. Glamp in style as you take a breather on the patio while enjoying a barbecue cookout or just soak in the blissful nature views while sipping a glass of wine with your companion. Here, you’ll also find a stocked kitchenette for whipping up some snacks.
You can even bring your four-legged friends to this tranquil place in the midst of a private garden.
Santa Cruz, California, United States
25.43 km (15.8 mi) from Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic ParkAccommodates: 2
4. Vibrant yurt with shared beach access
This artsy yurt on a forested farm is a delightful place to stay right on the lap of nature. Sitting on sprawling 5 acres (2 hectares) of land, this retreat puts you close to biking and hiking trails. During your downtime, you can chill in the colorful living room and prepare savory meals in the well-equipped kitchen. You’ll love sipping your morning coffee from the private patio while appreciating the soothing view of lush greenery.
You don’t have to worry about your fur babies because this place is pet-friendly. The best part? The yurt offers shared beach access, so you can have fun under the sun.
Montara, California, United States
40.38 km (25.1 mi) from Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic ParkAccommodates: 2
5. Comfortable yurt in a peaceful setting
There’s a lot to love about this cozy waterfront yurt in Alameda. Its prime location puts you close to bus lines and ferry services to San Francisco, yet its serene atmosphere is perfect if you wish to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. This retreat nestled in a quiet street is also accessible to parks and trails. Bikes are available for guests who want to explore the area.
For simple meal preparation, the basic kitchenette is equipped with a microwave, a Keurig coffee machine, a small fridge, and silverware. There’s also a speaker and some books to keep you occupied. A private courtyard fitted with a bathroom and shower is at your disposal too.
Alameda, California, United States
66.98 km (41.7 mi) from Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic ParkAccommodates: 2
Camping spots in Half Moon Bay
If you’re on the hunt for something not as glamorous but still well-located, check out these camping spots in Half Moon Bay.
6. Half Moon Bay State Beach
Francis Beach Campground, boasting 52 campsites, beckons you with its oceanfront charm. Picture waking up to the soothing sounds of waves just steps away from your tent or RV. Most sites offer those coveted ocean views, making your stay a truly immersive coastal experience. Keep in mind, though, during the peak season from May to October, there’s a 7-day camping limit. But during other times, you’re free to relish this coastal paradise for up to 14 days.
Half Moon Bay State Beach
Address: Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
Website: Half Moon Bay State Beach
7. Sweetwood Campground
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Sweetwood Campground is a year-round, tent-only campground ideally positioned between Dunes Beach and Venice Beach. It features plenty of cooking tables, picnic tables, barbecue pits, fire rings, and potable water, ensuring that you have all the camping essentials to maximize quality time with your family and friends. For your convenience, this campground also has pit toilets nearby.
Up to 50 people and 12 vehicles are welcome here, so it is possible to hold intimate gatherings and family reunions while enjoying tent camping in Half Moon Bay, California.
Sweetwood Campground
Address: 2158 CA-1, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States (map)
8. Pillar Point RV Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Nestled right across the majestic Pacific Ocean, this RV park in Half Moon Bay awaits your arrival. Booking is on a first-come, first-served basis. The serene campground offers 49 RV sites with full hookups, accommodating RVs up to 40 feet (12.19 meters) in length. Your RV must be equipped with a functional toilet, water storage, and a septic tank.
The ocean views from the site are simply breathtaking, setting the stage for a memorable getaway. Bring your kids and pets along, and enjoy complimentary WiFi and cable TV. Explore the walking and bike trail that stretches right in front of the park, or find tranquility in the ocean-view garden. Keep in mind, that Pillar Point RV Park does not allow advance reservations, so be sure to check availability as RVs come and go.
Pillar Point RV Park
Address: 4000 Cabrillo Highway, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Website: Pillar Point RV Park
9. Pelican Point RV Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Pelican Point RV Park on Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Pelican Point RV Park welcomes camping enthusiasts year-round. Conveniently, it is only a five-minute walk from the nearest beach. This park has all the amenities you need for a worry-free camping experience, such as electricity, and sewer and water systems at all campsites. Furthermore, there are restrooms, showers, and a laundry room with three washers and three dryers within the premises. Barbecue grills and fire pits are also available for rent, while there are wood bundles for sale. There is also a dog area, so you are more than welcome to bring your beloved dogs.
If you plan to camp here, note that reservations are typically made months in advance. Check-in is at 1pm and check-out is at 12pm.
Pelican Point RV Park
Address: 1001 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States (map)
Website: Pelican Point RV Park
10. Half Moon Bay RV Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Centrally located, Half Moon Bay RV Park is only a short walk from several beaches and coastal trails, and about a one-hour drive from San Francisco. Ideally, it sits right next to Cameron’s Restaurant & Pub, which offers good food and recreation. This campground also ensures quick access to many outdoor recreation opportunities, such as horseback riding, kayaking, and surfing. Pets are welcome here, so you can take yours along on your camping trip.
On-site amenities include laundry facilities, and private bathrooms and showers. When you stay here, you are expected to observe quiet hours between 10pm and 8am daily. Extended stays are welcome, as long as a campsite has been reserved accordingly. However, note that only RVs below 10 years old are allowed to stay for a month or longer.
Half Moon Bay RV Park
Address: 460 Wavecrest Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States (map)
Website: Half Moon Bay RV Park
Commune with nature near Half Moon Bay
Beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, and vibrant local culture make Half Moon Bay worth visiting. Fall in love with the beauty of nature and book one of the best glamping spots listed above for a relaxing getaway near the coastal city.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
