BytheSea Inn Half Moon Bay
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Rooms
Cypress & Sea
Charming ground-floor room with a plush king bed and a private in-room bathroom featuring a sleek glass walk-in shower. Enjoy soft, dimmable lighting, individually controlled heating, high-speed reliable Wi-Fi, and complimentary streaming TV—ensure both charm and ease throughout your stay.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Purisima
An inviting ground-floor retreat, thoughtfully appointed with a plush queen bed, soft dimmable lighting, and individually controlled heating for personalized comfort. The private in-room bath offers a rejuvenating Jacuzzi tub paired with a spacious shower, while modern amenities include high-speed, reliable WiFi and complimentary streaming TV—ensure both charm and ease throughout your stay.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Pillar Point
Inviting ground-floor room with a queen bed and a private in-room bathroom featuring a tub/shower. Soft, dimmable lighting and individually controlled heating tailor your comfort, while modern amenities—high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi and complimentary streaming TV—make for a restful, rejuvenating stay.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Pomponio
This room is currently unavailable for booking.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
The Cove
This room is currently unavailable for booking.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Farallone
Gracefully appointed with coastal charm, this second-floor retreat features a plush king bed framed by soft, dimmable lighting and individually controlled heating for personalized comfort. A private in-room bathroom with a tub-and-shower combination adds ease and convenience, while a gas fireplace elevates the experience with a soft, ambient glow. Thoughtful modern amenities—high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi and complimentary streaming TV—for a cozy stay with soft touches throughout.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Gray Whale
Inviting second-floor retreat invites you to unwind in a plush king bed, surrounded by soft, dimmable lighting and individually controlled heating for personalized comfort. From your window, take in the vibrant charm of Main Street Half Moon Bay, where the glow of lights and lively downtown scene create a captivating backdrop. The private bath enhances the experience with a rejuvenating Jacuzzi tub and spacious shower, while modern amenities—including high-speed, reliable WiFi and complimentary streaming TV—ensure a seamless blend of indulgence and ease.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Tunitas
An inviting second-floor retreat appointed with a plush queen bed, soft dimmable lighting, and individually controlled heating for personalized comfort. Your private in-room bath features a claw-foot tub with shower. Windows overlook Main Street, while modern amenities—including high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi and complimentary streaming TV—provide both charm and ease throughout your stay.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Fitzgerald
This room is currently unavailable for booking.
Ideally located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, this cozy retreat offers easy access to award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, charming cafés, local galleries, working farms, and the scenic California Coastal Trail. Guests can stroll to nearby beaches, explore historic Main Street, or enjoy outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, and tidepooling along the picturesque coastline. Thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, privacy, and relaxation, BytheSea Inn is the perfect base to experience the best of Half Moon Bay.
Montara
Located above the heart of historic downtown Half Moon Bay, the Montara Penthouse offers a warm and inviting coastal retreat. This airy, high-ceiling suite features a plush king-size bed, a spa-style bathroom with a relaxing jacuzzi tub/shower combo, and a bright living room complete with a cozy fireplace, flat-screen TV, and comfortable sofa bed—perfect for couples or small groups seeking comfort and charm by the sea. A compact kitchenette with an under-counter refrigerator, single-element black induction cooktop, blender, kettle, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, and basic kitchen essentials. Step outside to your private back deck—an ideal setting to enjoy morning coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the ocean air and elevated views over the rooftops of downtown Half Moon Bay.
Just outside your door, stroll to award-winning restaurants, artisan bakeries, boutique shops, wine and cheese tasting rooms, and coffee houses. The California Coastal Trail and nearby state beaches—Francis, Venice, and Poplar—are minutes away, ideal for walking, biking, or enjoying the local beaches.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, offering miles of scenic trails through redwoods and meadows with sweeping ocean views.
Only 30 minutes from San Francisco, the Montara Penthouse also provides a convenient base for travelers. With easy access to major Silicon Valley campuses—Google, Meta, Apple—and top universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, plus fast Wi-Fi for remote work, this coastal escape combines comfort, style, and connectivity.
Miramar
Located above the heart of historic downtown Half Moon Bay, the Miramar Penthouse is an airy, high-ceiling retreat offering spacious comfort and coastal elegance. This refined top-floor suite features a plush king-size bed, a spa-style bathroom with a jacuzzi tub/shower combo, and a bright living room with a cozy fireplace and comfortable sofa bed. The kitchenette includes an under-counter refrigerator, a single-element black induction cooktop, blender, kettle, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, and basic kitchen essentials. Step out onto your private back deck—ideal for morning coffee or evening wine while enjoying the fresh ocean air and Main Street’s relaxed charm.
Just outside your door, stroll to award-winning restaurants, artisan bakeries, boutique shops, wine and cheese tasting rooms, and coffee houses. The California Coastal Trail and nearby state beaches—Francis, Venice, and Poplar—are minutes away, ideal for walking, biking, or enjoying the local beaches.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, offering miles of scenic trails through redwoods and meadows with sweeping ocean views.
Only 30 minutes from San Francisco, the Miramar Penthouse also provides a convenient base for travelers. With easy access to major Silicon Valley campuses—Google, Meta, Apple—and top universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, plus fast Wi-Fi for remote work, this coastal escape combines comfort, style, and connectivity.
Mavericks
Located above Main Street in the heart of historic Half Moon Bay, the Mavericks Penthouse is a luxurious, high-ceiling retreat offering comfort, style, and signature coastal charm. This expansive suite features a plush king-size bed, a spa-inspired bathroom with a walk-in shower, separate WC, and double vanity sinks. The bright living area invites you to unwind with a cozy fireplace, flat-screen TV, and a comfortable sofa bed. A convenient kitchenette includes an under-counter refrigerator, a single-element black induction cooktop, blender, kettle, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, and basic kitchen essentials. Step out onto your private back deck—an ideal setting to enjoy morning coffee or evening wine while savoring the fresh coastal breeze and the relaxed atmosphere of downtown Half Moon Bay.
Just outside your door, stroll to award-winning restaurants, artisan bakeries, boutique shops, wine and cheese tasting rooms, and coffee houses. The California Coastal Trail and nearby state beaches—Francis, Venice, and Poplar—are minutes away, ideal for walking, biking, or enjoying the local beaches.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, offering miles of scenic trails through redwoods and meadows with sweeping ocean views.
Only 30 minutes from San Francisco, the Mavericks Penthouse also provides a convenient base for travelers. With easy access to major Silicon Valley campuses—Google, Meta, Apple—and top universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, plus fast Wi-Fi for remote work, this coastal escape combines comfort, style, and connectivity.
About Us
BytheSea Inn – A Boutique Stay in the Heart of Half Moon Bay
Perfectly located on historic Main Street in coastal Half Moon Bay by-the-Sea, BytheSea Inn puts you just steps away from golden sand beaches, award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, artisan bakeries, cozy cafés, vibrant galleries, and a unique mix of local businesses. A short stroll brings you to the beach and scenic coastal trails. Enjoy the charm of downtown while being comfortably tucked away, where coastal serenity meets walkable convenience.
Blending timeless coastal character with modern amenities, BytheSea Inn is ideal for a Half Moon Bay getaway, romantic retreat, or relaxing escape. Choose from a variety of beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many featuring jacuzzi tubs for added relaxation. Our flexible event spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings, celebrations, and small corporate retreats.
Located near San Francisco and Silicon Valley, BytheSea Inn offers a welcoming home base to explore, unwind, and experience the best of the Peninsula and Bay Area.
Experience the charm of Half Moon Bay from the perfect location — book your stay at BytheSea Inn today.
Why Main Street is Set Back from the Shoreline
Main Street sits slightly inland from the coastline — a thoughtful decision rooted in both history and practicality. Building just off the shore helped protect structures from the strong coastal winds, salt air, and seasonal flooding that could affect lower elevations. This planning fostered a vibrant, walkable downtown with a sheltered, temperate climate, all while remaining just a short stroll from the beach.
Today, visitors to Half Moon Bay enjoy the best of both worlds: a lively and charming downtown atmosphere combined with easy access to the scenic coastline — without the harsher elements of being directly on the water.
Learn More
Attractions
HIKING - Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
Nestled on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Half Moon Bay, Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve spans over 5,400 acres of rugged canyons, redwood groves, coastal scrub, and fern-lined creek valleys. Visitors can wander miles of hiking, equestrian, and multi-use trails that thread through stately second-growth redwoods, meadows, and ridge vistas. Some trails offer sweeping ocean views to the west, while others descend into the quiet, mossy forest of Purisima Creek Canyon. The preserve is managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and is open daily from a half-hour before sunrise until a half-hour after sunset.
ACTIVITY - Sea Horse Ranch
Sea Horse Ranch in Half Moon Bay offers guided horseback riding adventures along the beach and coastal bluffs. Riders can experience the thrill of trotting or walking on the sandy shoreline, with waves crashing nearby and views stretching across the Pacific. Trails also wind through open fields and coastal ridges, making each ride both scenic and memorable.
The ranch accommodates beginners and experienced riders, with well-trained horses and knowledgeable guides ensuring a safe, enjoyable outing. Popular options include one-hour, 90-minute, and longer rides—many timed around low tide for optimal beach access.
Perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a unique coastal experience, Sea Horse Ranch is one of the most iconic ways to enjoy Half Moon Bay’s natural beauty from a horseback vantage.
Visit www.seahorseranch.org
ACTIVITY - James V. (JV) Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Nestled along the rugged San Mateo County coastline in Moss Beach, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is one of California’s most celebrated tidepooling destinations. At low tide, the reef reveals a vibrant world of sea stars, crabs, anemones, and colorful marine algae. Visitors can explore the tidepools, watch harbor seals bask on offshore rocks, and wander scenic blufftop trails shaded by Monterey cypress groves.
The reserve offers a rare combination of oceanfront beauty and ecological diversity, with habitats ranging from rocky intertidal zones to coastal scrub and riparian marshland. Whether you’re here for a peaceful walk, a family outing, or an educational experience, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve provides a window into the delicate balance of coastal life.
ACTIVITY - Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail is a scenic multi-use path that runs for nearly 7 miles along the stunning San Mateo County coastline. Following the route of the old Ocean Shore Railroad, the trail stretches from Pillar Point Harbor in the north to Poplar Beach in the south, connecting a series of beautiful state beaches including Roosevelt, Dunes, Venice, and Francis.
Perfect for walking, running, or biking, the paved trail offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, wildflower-covered bluffs, and migrating whales offshore in season. Benches and access points along the way make it easy to stop, rest, and enjoy the coastal beauty.
This accessible trail provides a safe and leisurely way to experience the Half Moon Bay shoreline, whether for a quick stroll, a family outing, or a longer ride. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and parking is available at multiple state beach lots along the route.
GOLF - Half Moon Bay Golf Links
Known for its stunning scenery and challenging play, Half Moon Bay Golf Links has been recognized among the top golf resorts in the country. Players can enjoy full practice facilities, professional instruction, and a clubhouse with dining that overlooks both the course and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or visiting for the views, Half Moon Bay Golf Links delivers a world-class coastal golf experience just 30 minutes south of San Francisco.
Visit www.halfmoonbaygolf.com
GOLF - Ocean View Driving Range
Located just west of downtown Half Moon Bay, Oceanview Driving Range is your go-to destination for golf practice along the coast. With 22 spacious stalls, well-placed hitting targets, and a dedicated putting and chipping green, it’s the perfect place to refine your swing and short game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, you’ll find a welcoming environment to enhance your skills in a beautiful seaside setting. Visit us at www.oceanviewdrivingrange.com
RESTAURANTS - Moss Beach Distillery
Perched on a dramatic bluff overlooking the Pacific, Moss Beach Distillery is a historic restaurant known for its oceanfront dining and coastal charm. Originally built in the 1920s as a speakeasy during Prohibition, it has since become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers fresh seafood, steak, and California coastal cuisine, with indoor and outdoor seating that takes full advantage of sweeping ocean views. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor patio with fire pits while watching sunsets or spotting migrating whales offshore. Adding to its allure, the Distillery is famous for the legend of the “Blue Lady” ghost, a story that has captivated guests for generations and adds a touch of mystery to the dining experience. With its rich history, outstanding views, and relaxed yet refined atmosphere, Moss Beach Distillery is both a dining destination and a true piece of Half Moon Bay Coastside history. The official website for Moss Beach Distillery is https://mossbeachdistillery.com/
RESTAURANT - Pasta Moon
Pasta Moon is a contemporary Italian restaurant in Half Moon Bay that emphasizes farm-to-table cuisine, house-made pastas, seasonal ingredients, and local produce. It features an elegant-casual atmosphere with vaulted ceilings and multiple dining rooms, and it’s a longtime staple in the community (over 30 years).
Visit www.pastamoon.com
Awards
BytheSea Inn FAQs
Comparing the best Half Moon Bay hotels near the beach? These FAQs help you plan your stay at BytheSea Inn.
How close is BytheSea Inn to the beach?
BytheSea Inn is about half a mile from Half Moon Bay State Beaches. It’s an easy walk or a quick drive, making us a great choice for guests looking for a Half Moon Bay hotel near the beach.
See nearby coastal activities on our Attractions page.
Where is BytheSea Inn located?
We’re located in downtown Half Moon Bay, walking distance to restaurants, boutique shops, bakeries, bars, clothing shops, country grocery store, electric charging stations, and near Purisima Redwood Preserve and California State Beaches. If you’re deciding where to stay in Half Moon Bay, BytheSea Inn offers one of the best walkable hotel locations in Half Moon Bay, with restaurants, boutique shops, bakeries, bars, and local favorites just outside the door. Guests also enjoy easy access to coastal trails, horseback riding, Lemos Farm, Harley Farms Goat Dairy, Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve, and California State Beaches.
Need directions or local tips? Visit Contact.
Is parking available at BytheSea Inn?
Yes, guest parking is available on-site, making it easy to explore Half Moon Bay and nearby beaches. We also offer guaranteed paid parking in our private, monitored parking lot for added convenience and peace of mind.
Questions before you arrive? Reach out via Contact.
What types of rooms and amenities do you offer?
We offer a variety of rooms and suites designed for a comfortable coastal stay in Half Moon Bay. Amenities vary by room type and may include views of downtown Main Street, cozy fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, pet-friendly accommodations, climate-controlled rooms, and options on both the first and second floors. We recommend reviewing room details before booking to find the best fit for your stay.
Explore options on our Rooms page.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are allowed. Pet policies vary by room type and stay details, so we recommend contacting us directly to confirm the best option for your visit.
Contact us here: Contact.
What restaurants are nearby?
BytheSea Inn is close to a wide range of Half Moon Bay restaurants, from casual cafés to seafood and sit-down dining. Our downtown location makes it easy to walk to many of the area’s best restaurants, including Pasta Moon, widely regarded as one of the top dining destinations in Half Moon Bay.
See dining ideas and local spots on our Attractions page.
What are the best things to do in Half Moon Bay?
Half Moon Bay offers a mix of outdoor adventure and walkable coastal charm. Guests enjoy horseback riding, hiking and biking scenic trails, surfing and watching waves at Mavericks, and walking the California Coastal Trail. Seasonal events like the Pumpkin Festival, along with nearby California State Beaches, Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve, and local favorites such as Lemos Farm and Harley Farms Goat Dairy, make it easy to explore the best of the coast — all while staying steps from downtown restaurants, shops, and cafés.
Browse ideas on our Attractions page.