Coastside Trail - North Access

If you want to take a beautiful walk on the Pacific Ocean with your pup, the Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail is perfect for you! This trail takes you along the old Ocean Shore Railroad, and it runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean the whole way through. Pups are welcome to join you on this three-mile trail on-leash.

The Coastside Trail's North Access point is located at Pillar Point Harbor. Here, you and your pup can enjoy views of the marina before you start your trek. From the harbor, you can also see the world-famous Mavericks surfing spot, which is known for its huge waves.

Once you head onto the trail, you’ll go up a craggy bluff that’s filled with wildflowers. As you walk down the trail, you’ll get stunning views of the ocean crashing into the bluffs below. You may also get to see some of the wildlife that lives in the area, including red-tail hawks, red-winged blackbirds, blue herons, indigo buntings, eastern kingbirds, and much more. As you continue your walk, you’ll pass four beaches, but be aware that only one of these beaches allows pups.

Near the end of your hike, you’ll reach the one dog-friendly beach on the Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail: Poplar Beach. Dogs are welcome to join you on-leash on this pawpular beach. Your pup will love getting to walk around in the sand, play fetch, and splash around in the water! This beach is also the perfect place to take a break and have a picnic with your pup.

The Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail is a beautiful trail that takes you up craggy cliffs and along the furrific Pacific Ocean. Bring some doggy bags so you can clean up after your dog during your trek, and have a pawsitively amazing time hiking on this trail!