Half Moon Bay Site 010603higgins
This site is located on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Half Moon Bay. The centerpiece of this 4,000+ acre landscape, are its towering redwoods, rushing creek, and understory of ferns, berries, and wildflowers. It offers magnificent views of the coast and Half Moon Bay that are visible from the northern part of the preserve.
It offers several gorgeous redwood wedding venues. This site is not as well-known as nearby Big Basin or Henry Cowell State Park near Santa Cruz. So, while we're not saying it's a totally private setting, you can usually escape crowds here. Also, they only allow weddings on weekdays, which substantially cuts down on visitor traffic.
Think lush second-growth redwoods (about 100 years old), tranquility, the sounds of birds in the trees and you'll get a sense of what this site is like.
What we love about this site:
The redwoods are gorgeous, and there are a few groves on the side on the path.
Not as popular as some other local wooded areas.
Potential drawbacks of this site
No dogs allowed.
Parking
Does require a permit.
Accessibility
Parking: very small parking area with about 6 actual parking spaces. Once that's full, there's some available parking on the side of the road. If you have guests, they'll absolutely need to carpool to the site or be shuttled in (we can help with that).
Access from parking: Mostly dirt path that is flat from the parking area to beyond the first bridge. Some slightly hilly areas further in.
Additional Logistics
Dogs/Pets: not allowed.
Bathrooms: yes.
Suitable for children: yes.
Max vehicles accommodated: ~25. Six spots make up a parking lot. The remaining spots are on the side of the road.
Max number of guests at this site: 20.
Dates of Availability: year-round on weekdays.
Type of site: public, reservable.
Permits, Fees and Other Information
This site requires a permit for a wedding of any size. The permit fee is $325. We will roll that amount into your package fee and obtain the permit for you. The State of California also requires a refundable damage deposit and event liability insurance, both of which Blue Sky Elopements will cover on your behalf.
The location is a little out of the way and our package prices reflect that fact that we need to send in wedding vendors either from Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz.
Most of the sites at Purisima have limited parking, so we suggest carpooling (or we can arrange for a shuttle) if you have guests attending your wedding.
No confetti, birdseed or rice (bubbles are allowed).
Photos
Video
Location
Note: place marker is approximate; the actual location will be provided upon booking.
Half Moon Bay Calendar of Events
IMPORTANT: be sure to check the calendar of events for the dates you're considering before you submit your date to us. Local events can impact traffic and the accessibility of your site.
Half Moon Bay Average Temps and Precipitation
