Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.8
(159)
2,492
hikers
10
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) are characterized by towering redwood forests, deep canyons, and varied terrain. The preserve is situated on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains, featuring Purisima Creek and a mix of shaded redwood groves, open meadows, and coastal hills. Hikers can experience environments ranging from lush creek-side paths to higher elevations offering panoramic views of the coast and Half Moon Bay.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
11
hikers
5.13km
01:20
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
4.52km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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24
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
23
hikers
15.0km
03:50
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Miramar Beach offers a serene coastal escape with sandy shores and scenic vistas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or explore the nearby California Coastal Trail, which provides stunning ocean views and connects to other local attractions.
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The tree lined streets of Hal Moon Bay invite you to explore its rich history, parks, eateries, art galleries. and more. While the area is mostly known for its beaches, be sure to allow yourself enough time to explore the town as well.
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Downtown Half Moon Bay, situated along the Northern California coast, exudes a quaint charm with its historic architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries. It's a captivating destination for leisurely strolls and exploring coastal culture.
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This scenic, championship-level course offers 36 holes of golf on a bluff overlooking the ocean.
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Exactly what it says on the tin! The truth is that most of the trail along Half Moon Bay is nice and flat, making for an easy, casual ride with incredible views.
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The paved Coastal Trail leads you down a set of steps to Manhattan Beach where CaΓ±ada Verde Creek disappears under the sands into the ocean. This is a popular spot with beautiful foliage during the summer, and a great spot to stop for views along the Coastal Trail.
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Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers both tent and RV camping with options for electric hookups or dry camping. While there are no water or sewer hookups, a dump station and water filling station are available. Quarter-operated hot showers , picnic areas, restrooms, and access to the Coastside Trail, are all available here. Dogs are also allowed in designated areas on leashes. Fires, drones, and fireworks, however, are prohibited to protect the natural environment and wildlife. Reservations for this popular campsite must be made through ReserveCalifornia, either online or by phone. The beach itself features four miles of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking.
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The California Coastal Trail is a scenic pathway spanning over 1,200 miles along the state's coastline. It offers unparalleled views, diverse ecosystems, beaches, parks, and communities, offering visitors an immersive coastal experience.
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There are 9 bus-accessible hiking trails in the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve area, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes.
While the preserve itself is known for its towering redwood forests, lush creek canyons, and varied terrain including open meadows and coastal hills, the bus-accessible routes listed here primarily explore the beautiful coastline near Half Moon Bay. You can expect stunning ocean views, sandy beaches, and coastal bluffs. From higher elevations within the preserve, you might also catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
Yes, there are 4 easy routes available. A great option for a gentle introduction is the Half Moon Bay State Beach loop from Johnston Ranch, which offers a pleasant 5.1 km walk along the coast.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve area, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 158 ratings. Hikers often praise the refreshing coastal air, the diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained paths.
Absolutely. For a longer coastal experience, consider the Poplar Beach β Wavecrest Open Space Preserve loop from Half Moon Bay, which covers over 18 km and offers expansive views of the Pacific.
While the bus-accessible routes listed here focus on the coastal areas, the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve itself is famous for its majestic redwood forests. To experience both, you might combine a bus trip to Half Moon Bay with a separate visit to the preserve's redwood trails, which are typically accessed by car or a longer walk from specific trailheads.
Along the coastal trails, you might spot various seabirds. Within the redwood canyons of the preserve, keep an eye out for interesting creatures like banana slugs, especially in the moist, shaded areas. Spring also brings an abundance of wildflowers, and late summer to early autumn offers huckleberries.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular. For example, the Miramontes Point β Half Moon Bay State Beach loop from Half Moon Bay offers a moderate 10.9 km loop along the coastline.
The cool coastal climate makes the area enjoyable year-round. The redwood canyons provide a refreshing escape during warmer months. For coastal trails, clear days offer the best views, but even foggy days can have a unique, atmospheric charm.
Yes, several trails provide excellent views of Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The Poplar Beach β Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail loop from Half Moon Bay is a moderate 9.3 km route that offers scenic coastal vistas.
Given the coastal influence, layers are always recommended. Even on sunny days, a light jacket or windbreaker can be useful, especially along the exposed coastline. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for all trails.
For additional details about the preserve itself, including its natural features and general visitor information, you can visit the Visit Half Moon Bay website.


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