A Solo Day Trip to Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz: Sand, Sunshine, and So Much Fun
Planning a day trip to Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz? Buckle up, buttercup! This journey is a solo female traveler’s dream—think ocean views, cozy cafes, and quirky beach vibes. By the end, you’ll be smiling like the Cheshire Cat with a belly full of clam chowder and sand between your toes. Let’s dive into this California coastal adventure!
Morning Magic: Sunrise and Scones at Half Moon Bay
Start your day early because the sun waits for no one (and trust me, it’s worth it here). Half Moon Bay’s coastline is like a Pinterest board come to life—misty cliffs, frothy waves, and surfers who look like they stepped out of an REI catalog.
Coffee and a Quick Bite
First stop: Moonside Bakery & Cafe. This quaint spot serves buttery scones and lattes that’ll have you questioning why you ever settled for mediocre coffee. Grab a seat by the window, and enjoy some people-watching—bonus points if you spot another solo traveler lost in a paperback novel.
If you’re into guided biking, book a Half Moon Bay Coastal Bike tour to discover secret coves and Instagram-worthy vistas. It’s like a treasure hunt, minus the pirates.
Exploring the Beach Bliss
Walk off that scone by heading to Half Moon Bay State Beach. The miles of golden sand here are perfect for meditative strolls or playing the “Can I guess their life story?” game with the other beachgoers. For the brave-hearted, dip your toes into the chilly Pacific—California cool, quite literally.
Want to take it up a notch? Rent a bike from a local shop and cruise along the Coastal Trail. It’s the kind of ride where you’ll feel like the star of an indie movie, wind whipping through your hair, soundtrack optional.
Lunchtime Love: A Seafood Affair
No trip to Half Moon Bay is complete without indulging in seafood. Head to Sam’s Chowder House, where the lobster rolls are legendary, and the clam chowder is basically a warm hug in a bowl. Pull up a chair on the patio and let the ocean breeze do its thing. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your meal for Instagram—you’re living your best life, after all.
P.S. After your meal, check out my post on the best eats in Pacific Beach, San Diego for more foodie inspiration.
Afternoon Adventures: Santa Cruz Shenanigans
Time to hit the road for Santa Cruz, about an hour south. I have rented a car and the drive is scenic enough to make even the most ardent city-lover swoon. Blast some tunes, roll down the windows, and channel your inner road-trip goddess.
Beach Boardwalk Bonanza
Santa Cruz’s Beach Boardwalk is pure nostalgia. Think carnival games, roller coasters, and enough cotton candy to fuel a small army. Whether you’re hopping on the Giant Dipper (a wooden coaster with serious vintage vibes) or just soaking up the sights, this place is a solo traveler’s playground.
Coffee Break with a Twist
By mid-afternoon, you’ll need a pick-me-up. Swing by Verve Coffee Roasters, where the baristas treat coffee like an art form. Sip on a perfectly crafted cappuccino while you recharge your phone and your soul.
Want something quirky? Pop into Bookshop Santa Cruz, a charming indie bookstore where you can lose track of time flipping through travel memoirs. It’s a solo travel rite of passage.
Sunset Stunner: Natural Bridges State Beach
For the grand finale, head to Natural Bridges State Beach. The rock formations here are as dramatic as a reality TV reunion, and the sunsets? Pure magic. If you time it right, you might even spot monarch butterflies fluttering around like tiny orange fairies.
Looking for more coastal escapes? Check out my guide to things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from Santa Cruz.
Dinner Delight: Casual and Cozy Eats
Wrap up your day with dinner at The Crow’s Nest, where you can enjoy seafood with a view. The calamari here is so good, it’ll ruin you for all future calamari. If you’re craving something lighter, their salads are also top-notch.
If one day isn’t enough, book a cozy stay at a Santa Cruz Boutique Hotel. It’s the perfect base for exploring even more of this funky town
Back to Reality
As you drive back home with sandy shoes and a full heart, you’ll realize that Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz aren’t just destinations—they’re experiences that remind you of the joy of solo travel. It’s the kind of trip that makes you grateful for your own company and the freedom to wander wherever the wind takes you.
Until next time, keep exploring! And don’t forget to check out my post on the best things to do in San Francisco for your next adventure.
What’s your favorite solo day trip? Let me know in the comments! 🌊
