6 places to check out in Half Moon Bay
A seaside community first inhabited by the Costanoan Indians and once named Spanishtown, Half Moon Bay attracts beachcombers and surfers who enjoy its waters and breathtaking vistas.
The agricultural heritage here remains strong, with farms growing crops in fertile fields, fruit and vegetable stands dotting the roads, greenhouses, plant nurseries and the annual Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival.
On a recent afternoon, customers packed this small bakery, eager to pick up peanut butter, half-dipped and other cookies; biscotti; hot-cross buns; and specialty cakes, including tres leches.
Opened in 1927 by the Castiglioni family, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists.
Community United Methodist Church
Built in 1872, the Victorian Gothic Revival originated as a Methodist Episcopal Church.
Spanish Town Historical Society Jail
Founded in 1911, the tiny building now operates as a museum run by the Spanish Town Historical Society.
An intriguing curiosity shop and outdoor space, Oddyssea sells science-, nature- and art-oriented gifts, such as Mineral of the Month Terrarium Kit.
Public transit:
Take BART to the Colma Station, and board the SamTrans No. 112 southbound bus to the Linda Mar Park and Ride in Pacifica.
Transfer to a SamTrans No. 17 southbound bus, and exit at Main and Poplar streets in Half Moon Bay.
Or take Caltrain to the Hillsdale Station in San Mateo, transfer to a SamTrans No. 294 southbound bus, and exit and Main and Poplar streets in Half Moon Bay. www.bart.gov, www.caltrain.com, www.samtrans.com.
A stark white structure perched dramatically on a green hill, the James Johnston House is a New England-style saltbox home that Johnston built for Petra Maria de Jara, his new wife.