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Get Married Outdoors · Half Moon Bay · Half Moon Bay
Here's exactly how to get your permit, what it costs, and what to expect — from the Our Little Wedding team.
The Quick Answer
Permit Office
the San Mateo Coast District of California State Parks for a Special Event Permit
CA State Parks San Mateo Coast District as of Jul 2026
Capacity
Up to 50 guests
Micro wedding context — intimate ceremonies
Permit Required
Yes
Contact the San Mateo Coast District of California State Parks for a Special Event Permit: SMPermits@parks.ca.gov or call (650) 726-8819. The park page is parks.ca.gov/?page_id=531.
Lead Time
4–8 weeks minimum
Permit fee: not publicly listed on parks.ca.gov — contact the park directly for current pricing. Apply at least 30–60 days in advance; the park accepts applications up to 6 months in advance for this location.
The Permit Process
Here's the exact process — sourced from official permit offices and verified by the Our Little Wedding team.
Contact the San Mateo Coast District of California State Parks for a Special Event Permit: SMPermits@parks.ca.gov or call (650) 726-8819. The park page is parks.ca.gov/?page_id=531.
CA State Parks San Mateo Coast District as of Jul 2026Permit fee: not publicly listed on parks.ca.gov — contact the park directly for current pricing. Apply at least 30–60 days in advance; the park accepts applications up to 6 months in advance for this location.
CA State Parks San Mateo Coast District as of Jul 2026Contact SMPermits@parks.ca.gov for current rules on chairs, décor, sound, structures, and alcohol. CA State Parks generally prohibits temporary structures on the sand and may require a park monitor for some events.
From the Team
Things the permit office won't tell you — from the Our Little Wedding team and couples we've worked with here.
OLW tip
Half Moon Bay's beaches run for miles — Francis Beach and Venice Beach sections are the most popular for ceremonies. Francis Beach has the best parking for guests.
OLW tip
Summer mornings here are foggy until 11 AM. Golden light arrives in the afternoon. Winter and spring days can be crystal clear and dramatic — don't sleep on an off-season ceremony here.
OLW tip
Half Moon Bay is 45 minutes from San Francisco with no traffic, 90 minutes in rush hour. Plan accordingly and give guests a precise time with buffer.
Our top recommendations from the team for celebrating nearby.
Pasta Moon
Beloved Half Moon Bay Italian restaurant, private dining room for small groups
10 min drive from Francis Beach
Mavericks Restaurant
Casual coastal dining, good for groups, Half Moon Bay harbor views
12 min drive
Real Weddings
Our Little Wedding has planned intimate ceremonies across Half Moon Bay. More wedding stories from Half Moon Bay State Beach are coming soon.
Browse real wedding storiesFrequently Asked Questions
You found the perfect spot. Now let's make it happen.
Our micro wedding package starts at $4,500 for up to 10 guests. We handle everything — from the paperwork to the last dance.
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