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Census designated place in California, United States
Photo: Jacek Walicki, CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons
Moss Beach is a small town on the Pacific Coast on the Peninsula south of San Francisco.
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The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a unit of the San Mateo County Parks famous for its tide pools. The best time to visit is during low tide when rocks are exposed and visitors can expect to find everything from starfish to the occasional octopus. Seals are usually present on the beach as well. Parking is limited and can be tough to find on weekends. Docent tours are available.
One of the more popular beaches in Half Moon bay due to easy access and low hills, the beach provides opportunity for swimming, exploration of tide pools and surf fishing. There is also a lighthouse at Point Montara that has been converted to a bed and breakfast.
Famous for "the Blue Lady", a ghost rumored to haunt the premises, the Moss Beach distillery offers a full menu, Sunday brunch, drinks, and a tremendous ocean view with comfortable fire pits. Happy hour M-F 5-7PM offers half-priced drinks and a discounted food menu.
Located a few hundred feet from the ocean (but without ocean views), and surrounded by gardens and a eucalyptus grove, this European-styled inn has just ten rooms, each equipped with fireplace. It's on the pricey side, although if same-day or next-day days may be available to those who call. In addition to the impressive grounds, a gourmet breakfast is included (prix fixe menu includes items such as homemade scones and poached eggs), there is a daily wine reception, and the comfortable lobby offers a fireplace and view of the grounds.
Visitors to Moss Beach will arrive on Highway One, either coming south from Pacifica or north from Half Moon Bay.
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