Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Half Moon Bay. Half Moon Bay Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Half Moon Bay, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Half Moon Bay is roughly 30 minutes from HAF via Taxi/Rideshare. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Half Moon Bay from HAF
You have two main options for getting from Half Moon Bay Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Half Moon Bay, we’d suggest Half Moon Bay State Beach and Pillar Point Harbor. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HAF, you can spend time at Half Moon Bay Airport Observation Area or try Explore HMB Aviation Association. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Sam’s Chowder House and Moonside Bakery & Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Half Moon Bay.
- At the airport: Three Zero Cafe and HAF FBO Pilot Lounge Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Half Moon Bay might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$25 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$48 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Half Moon Bay, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Half Moon Bay Airport
Specific locker facilities at HAF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Half Moon Bay itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HAF is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Half Moon Bay and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at HAF
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at HAF.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Half Moon Bay genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.