Half Moon Bay State Beach

<p>At the Half Moon Bay State Beach, visitors can camp, fish, swim, surf and even try horseback riding on the trail above the beach. Located west of Highway 1, the four-mile beach has three parking lots that each give access to a different section: Francis Beach, Venice Beach and Dunes Beach. During weekends and holidays, a lifeguard is on duty.</p> <p>A visitor center is open on weekends. Campers should make advance reservations by contacting Reserve America at 1-800-444-PARK (7275), or online at <a href="http://www.reserveamerica.com/">www.reserveamerica.com</a>.  Fires, fireworks and dogs are not allowed on the beach at any time.</p> <p>For those who don't want to leave Fido behind -- or would like to have the beach experience without getting sand between their toes --  it's possible to catch panoramic views from the picnic tables and the campgrounds.</p> <p>Another option is walking, biking or running along the Coastside Trail, which overlooks the waves for an additional three-mile stretch. There's a generous smattering of benches, too. But be careful before setting out that picnic spread: Low-flying seagulls are plentiful.</p>