fishing coexist with Silicon Valley commuters and a growing, multicultural population. As City Manager Matthew Chidester explains, the town’s core industries are closely tied to the land and sea.“Tourism is number one,” he says, citing the region’s sweeping coastal vistas, towering redwoods, and expansive agricultural areas. But agriculture and fishing remain key pieces of the economy, with local farms and the historic Pillar Point Harbor still playing vital roles. “We’re a small city of 12,000 residents, but with the unincorporated Coastside communities around us, we’re closer to 30,000 people,” he adds, describing a tight-knit collective with a rare sense of togetherness. Despite its size, Half Moon Bay boasts an unusually wide range of economic and cultural diversity. “We have wealthy tech workers who mostly commute to Silicon Valley or work from home, but we also have low-income farm and service workers. Our Latino population is sizable, along with a growing Asian community,” Chidester explains. Seniors are another important demographic supported by local senior housing facilities. AMENITIES AND FESTIVALS The draw of Half Moon Bay’s outdoor amenities is undeniable for visitors and residents.The California Coastal Trail offers miles of breathtaking oceanfront views. “It’s a huge draw for visitors, but it’s also something our locals use every day,” Chidester says. He points to the area’s rich equestrian culture, highlighted by events like Vaquero Days, where horses parade down Main Street and a growing recreational scene that includes a passionate pickleball community, Little League, and competitive school sports. “We also have some really unique festivals,” Chidester notes. The Annual Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival and Weigh-Off are marquee events, drawing people from all over the region.And, of course, there’s Mavericks—one of the world’s most famous surf spots, located just north of the harbor. As the city continues to evolve, it’s investing in even more recreational spaces. “We’re just finishing the construction of Carter Park,” Chidester reveals. The 203 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11 HALF MOON BAY, CA
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