If there's ever a hot day in the Bay Area, head to the coastal areas like Half Moon Bay for cooler weather. For beach access, head to Cowell Beach Ranch! A short walk from the parking lot leads to an overlook that boasts views of seals in the springtime. Early summer yields yellow wildflowers carpeting the hillside. There are also some benches scattered throughout the overlook.

Follow the steps down to reach the beach where many break out their picnic ware, spending the afternoon resting on the sand and playing on the beach.



When I made my way back up towards the stairs, I spotted a falcon (?). This pose was my favorite: "I see you and this is my spot."




For a bite to eat, I headed to Cafe Capistrano, where I ordered their cochinita pibil, a nice combination of Mayan-style flavors.


After sampling some local food and to make the most of the Half Moon Bay excursion, I headed to Pillar Point Bluff, located behind the local airport. The air force station is visible towards the south.



Cowell Beach Ranch
Start: Cowell Beach Ranch Access gate (it's a small parking lot, though parking along Highway 1 is fine.)
Duration: less than an hour
Difficulty: easy
Length: 1 mile RT
Danger: windy
Exposure: open
Crowd Factor: moderate

Pillar Point Bluff
Start: any entrance along Bernal Avenue
Duration: half an hour
Difficulty: easy
Length: variable
Danger: sandy trails and brisk wind
Exposure: open
Crowd Factor: very low

Cafe Capistrano: 523 Church Street, Half Moon Bay, California

Happy travels!
Cat

(Half Moon Bay visited in June 2016)