Halfmoon Bay Trail

Overview

This short, rewarding walk drops you from old‑growth rainforest to a secluded, sandy cove on the wild Pacific. It’s quieter than nearby Long Beach, with the same moody atmosphere—towering cedars and hemlocks, moss everywhere, and ocean surf at the finish.

Route and Distance

Start at the Willowbrae Trailhead at the end of Willowbrae Road. It’s an easy forest approach to a signed fork; take the spur for Halfmoon Bay. Expect boardwalk and long stair sections down to the beach (and back up later). Plan on about 2.5 miles total, out‑and‑back, including the Willowbrae connector and the Halfmoon Bay spur. Most hikers take around 1–1.5 hours round trip, depending on beach time and the return climb.

What You’ll See

The trail winds through temperate rainforest with old‑growth cedar and hemlock, plus nurse logs sprouting new life. As you near the coast, it transitions into a spruce fringe and then opens to a sheltered, sandy bay. It’s a great spot to watch shorebirds and soak in the sound of the surf. Sandhill Creek flows along the left side of the beach and shifts with seasons and tides.

Best Time to Hike

Year‑round. Fog and drizzle make the forest glow, and the boardwalks help when it’s wet. Summer brings calmer seas and more shorebird activity; autumn and winter deliver dramatic storm energy if you like a wilder vibe. Go early or late for softer light and fewer people. If you want to stack trails, the same junction also leads to Florencia Bay (locally called Wreck Beach).

Logistics and Tips

• Parking is at the large Willowbrae Trailhead lot; pay at the automated machine (credit card only). Two big outhouses are available and accessible at the trailhead.
• Wear sturdy footwear—boardwalks and stairs can be slick. Trekking poles help on the way back up.
• No dogs are allowed on this trail and beach from April 1 to October 1 (wildlife protection). Outside those dates, check current rules before you go.

Cautions

The final descent features long stairways—save energy for the climb out. Boardwalks get slippery in wet weather. Sandhill Creek can be deeper or faster at times; it’s typically shallower near the ocean edge, but always use caution. Know the tides and respect surf hazards, especially in storm season.