The drive from Santa Clara to Half Moon Bay is basically 38 miles and about 46 minutes on a clean day, per Trippy’s route estimate. But weekends on Highway 92 are a whole different animal — Caltrans still has lane work near Pilarcitos Creek Road, and the coastal fog does what it wants. Most of the best spots cluster around Pillar Point Harbor, so park once and pick your vibe. Leave Santa Clara early Saturday and the trip is ekdum worth it.
1. Sam’s Chowder House (Half Moon Bay) — Oceanfront deck The Infatuation describes as “so close to the water you could write your name in the sand.”
The lobster roll was named one of the Top 5 Best Sandwiches in America by the NBC Today Show food editor. Seafood mains $25–$40. Weekend reservations are non-negotiable.
2. La Costanera (Half Moon Bay) — Modern Peruvian from chef Carlos Altamirano, Michelin-starred in 2012 and 2013 at the old Montara location, relocated to Pillar Point Harbor in 2021, and still listed in the MICHELIN Guide California.
Two-story windows, outdoor terrace with fire pits, entrees $30–$45. Closed Mondays…