Half Moon Bay

I popped over to Half Moon Bay from Palo Alto one day during my visit using my brother’s car.   To do so you have to drive across the San Francisco Peninsula which requires you go over the Santa Cruz Mountains.  I was told THE place to go in Half Moon Bay was the Half Moon Bay Brewery.  So I head straight to the brewery for lunch and to taste their range of brews.  By far the Mavericks Amber Ale was my favourite, this beer was absolutely delicious and I ended up bringing back two growlers for my brother and I to devour later.  In addition to the great beer I was really impressed with the ambience in this pub: the fireplace was going, good music on the stereo, surfing films on the big screen and great service. In fact I really wanted to spend a lot more time here, this is a great little pub.  I had a snack of Ahi Poke, which actually changed my life.  I have never tasted a better put together poke, with flavours of sesame, chili, green onion and most delicate tuna ever.

After lunch I strolled out to the famous Mavericks big wave surfing location.  This spot is famous for producing big wave surf at certain times of the year.  Having watched Riding Giants with my brother the night before I had some idea of how special this place was.  I did not see any big waves or surfers during on my beach walk, but I believe the waves come only when the conditions are just right.

On the way back I took Highway 35 which goes along the top of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  This is a gorgeous dive as you wind through beautiful forests with views on both sides of the peninsula.