Half Moon Bay is a charming coastal town on California’s San Mateo County coast, known for its dramatic cliffs, pumpkin patches, and fresh seafood. Whether you have a short connection or an extended layover at HAF Airport, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this picturesque destination.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Language: English
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality
- Time Zone: Pacific Time (PT)
- Airport Website: Contact HAF directly for current transit information
Getting to Half Moon Bay
HAF Airport is located in Half Moon Bay. For specific ground transportation options, parking, and transit details, visit the airport’s official website or contact the airport directly. Consider these general transit tips:
- Rental Car: Most flexible option for exploring the coastline and nearby attractions
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft available; download the app before landing
- Taxi: Available at airport ground transportation areas
Pro Tip: Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating if you can leave the airport. For international arrivals, budget at least 1 hour for immigration processing.
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
Since amenities data is not currently available for HAF, we recommend:
- Contacting the airport directly for information on dining, shopping, and seating areas
- Downloading offline entertainment before your layover in case WiFi is unreliable
- Bringing an empty water bottle to fill after security to stay hydrated
In Half Moon Bay (If You Have Time to Leave)
Half Moon Bay offers beautiful coastal experiences perfect for layover exploration:
| Activity | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Walks | 1-2 hours | Explore scenic cliffs and beaches along the Pacific coast |
| Pumpkin Patches (Seasonal) | 1-2 hours | Famous during fall season; great for photos and local produce |
| Seafood Dining | 1-2 hours | Fresh local catch at waterfront restaurants |
| Downtown Shopping | 1-2 hours | Local shops, galleries, and artisan stores |
Quick Layover Tips
- Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing to navigate without relying on airport WiFi
- Eat in Town, Not the Airport: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than local restaurants
- Use ATMs for Currency: Never exchange money at airport counters – rates are poor. Use ATMs or a Wise card instead
- Pack a Layover Bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Share Your Location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact
Luggage Storage & Sleeping
Luggage Storage
If you want to explore without your bags, use services like Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero. These partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers.
Sleeping During a Layover
For longer layovers, check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping conditions. If you need a proper bed, book a hotel near HAF or explore budget accommodation options in Half Moon Bay.
Lounge Access
Lounge access options include:
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide; some credit cards include it free
- One-Time Day Passes: Available from most airlines (typically $39-59)
- Airline Status: Check if your frequent flyer status includes lounge access
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave HAF airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave HAF Airport during a layover. However, always factor in immigration and security time. For international arrivals, budget at least 1 hour for immigration, plus 2-3 hours to return to the airport and clear security before your next flight. A minimum of 6 hours total layover time is recommended if you want to explore Half Moon Bay.
What is there to do at HAF during a layover?
Half Moon Bay offers coastal walks, seasonal pumpkin patches, fresh seafood dining, and downtown shopping. If you prefer to stay at the airport, contact HAF directly for information on dining and shopping options. Download offline entertainment before your layover in case airport WiFi is unreliable.
How long of a layover do I need at HAF?
For domestic connections, allow at least 60 minutes. For international arrivals connecting to domestic flights, budget 2.5-3 hours. If you want to leave the airport and explore Half Moon Bay, plan for at least 6 hours total layover time to account for immigration, security, travel, and returning to the airport.
Are there lounges at HAF?
Contact HAF directly for current lounge information. You can also access lounges through Priority Pass (1,400+ lounges worldwide), one-time day passes from airlines ($39-59), or airline frequent flyer status.
Is there luggage storage at HAF?
For luggage storage options at HAF, contact the airport directly. Alternatively, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero, which partner with local businesses near the airport and cost $5-10 per bag per day.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Whether you have a quick connection or an extended layover at HAF, Half Moon Bay’s coastal charm and local attractions make it a memorable stop. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and plan your activities accordingly.
Safe travels!