Poplar Beach
Half Moon Bay
HALF MOON BAY, CA
THINGS TO DO
Half Moon Bay Poplar Beach
Poplar Beach / Bluff Top Coastal Park is operated by the City of Half Moon Bay. Its picturesque setting is ideal for sunbathing, fishing and picnicking on the beach. Also, along the bluff top, you can take in the sweeping ocean views from a number of park benches that line the Bluff Top Trail.
The Bluff Top Trail connects to the Coastside Trail that runs along the eastern boundary of Half Moon State Beach (Francis Beach, Venice Beach, Dunes Beach) providing over a three mile stretch to walk, jog or ride bikes. The trail continues north to Pillar Point Harbor.
A horse trail parallels the Bluff Top/Coastside Trail from Roosevelt Beach. While in the state parks, horses are restricted to the designated horse trail and are not permitted on State Beaches. On Poplar Beach, however, horses are allowed -- making it a wonderful, experience for both tourists renting a horse with a guide and seasoned equestrians.
The green space between the Bluff Top Park and Half Moon Bay State Beach is ideal for bird watching. Large hawks often sit on the split rail fence and park benches -- sometimes allowing visitors to come within 6 feet of them.
Featured Half Moon Bay Hotels & Resorts
The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay ─ Click to book online
One Miramontes Point Rd., Half Moon Bay, CA
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Half Moon Bay All Activities
Location/Directions
Half Moon Bay's Bluff Top Park/Poplar Beach is located a half-mile west of Highway 1 at the end of Poplar Avenue off Highway 1. It is just south of Half Moon Bay State Beach, and interconnects with the State Beaches through the Coastside Trail.
Designated parking areas for cars and horse trailers are available at the bluff top parking lot.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The major weather pattern for Half Moon Bay is fog in the summer, crisp, clear days in the fall and spring, and wet, windy winters. Temperatures are moderate with the summer highs in the mid 60's and winter lows in the mid 40's. Summer fog is most common in the mornings and evenings.
Facilities/Activities
Poplar Beach has several portable toilets that are located next to the parking lot. Please note that Poplar Beach has no available camp sites, picnic tables, or running water. (The Half Moon Bay State Beach just North of Poplar Beach is much more develped. )
The Bluff Top Trail connects to the Coastside Trail which runs along the eastern boundary of the Half Moon Bay State Beaches providing close to a three mile stretch to walk, jog or ride bikes. The trail continues north to Pillar Point Harbor.
A horse trail parallels the Bluff Top and Coastside Trails from Roosevelt Beach to Francis Beach. While in the state parks, horses are restricted to the designated horse trail and are not permitted on State Beaches.
Please, NO beach fires are allowed.
Dogs are prohibited on the beaches at all times. Dogs are permitted in the campground, in the day-use picnic areas, and on the Coastal Trail, provided they are controlled with a leash of no more than six feet at all times. Where Can I Take My Dog.pdf
The Ocean -
Always use caution when you are in or near the ocean. The ocean water is very cold year round. Even a short swim can cause cramps or hypothermia (a life threatening condition which occurs when your body temperature drops below normal). In addition, strong rip currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers off shore. Please refrain from removing shells, driftwood, and other natural beach features. Fireworks are prohibited.
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