Between the and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean is the cozy town of Montara, California. Because of its small size of 2,000 people and because of its quiet nature, Montara can be missed on the beautiful coastal drive down Highway 1 (also known as the Cabrillo Highway). Montara, however, is not to be underestimated. Although you can feel like the cities are hundreds of miles away, there are only 20 short miles from San Francisco and 55 miles from Silicon Valley making Montara the ideal home for anyone looking for work in the city without the pricey real estate or the constant traffic. Montara has the typical hometown feel with local restaurants, coffee house, quiet beaches, Open Space and hidden elementary school.
~Outdoor Adventures~
Point Montara Lighthouse: this historic and movie-famous lighthouse was established in Montara back in 1875 as a fog signal point after many ships had run aground. The cast iron lighthouse that stands today was brought to Montara in 1925 from the Wellfleet Harbor in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Today the lighthouse still protects the ships out on the sea and is also a working hostel for those wanting a room for the night. Point Montara Lighthouse also claims fame in movies such as “Bandits”; this 2001 production featuring Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton and Cate Blachett. Enjoy the view by taking a small stroll along the cliffs down to the water’s edge enjoying the peace the lighthouse offers.
Montara State Beach: this is the perfect beach for kite flying, surfing, sunbathing, picnics and whale watching! Don’t let the expensive city fool you- you do not need to be on a boat to see the whales! As this beach is on the route many whales take to their breeding areas, many times whales can be seen scratching their bellies on the ocean floors, showing off their tails and even the occasional “hello” as they peak their noses out from the service.
Gray Whale Cove: need a more secluded beach? Gray Whale Cove is the place to be! Located on Devil’s Slide, Gray Whale Cove is a calm beach with calm waters great for swimming, quiet lunches and a bit of surfing! And, as the name implies, whales can be seen off in the distance as they spout their greetings.
The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve: if the beach is not close enough to the wildlife, take the 5 minute drive to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and see the sea creatures of the tide pools! Right on the reefs, the Marine Reserve is the perfect area to see starfish, hermit crabs, rock crabs, rock fish, sea snails, mussels, sea anemones, and on the rare occasion eels! Sit on the beach and build sand castles while watching the lazy seals are pushed by the waves. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is the perfect place to get out and enjoy the coast without having to go far.
Montara Mountain: hike or bike up to the top of Montara Mountain! This 1,898ft mountain has some of the most beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay Area as well as the Pacific Ocean. With the newest addition to the mountain being the Tom Lantos Tunnels, the commute to San Francisco has been made safer and even faster. On the edges of the mountain bunkers and lookouts from WWII can be seen. Montara Mountain has also been trekked by the Spanish Explorer Gaspar de Portola in 1769 and small portions of the trail can still be seen today!
~Local Restaurants~
Gherkins: want a delicious sandwich to compliment your picnic on the beach? Gherkins sandwich shop will satisfy your hunger with their large fresh sandwiches!
El Gran Amigo: a small Mexican taqueria that is part of a local 3-shop restaurant chain. With burritos guaranteed to satisfy any hungry person, quesadillas made with fresh meat and some fresh fish tacos, who would be able to resist?
La Costanera: a Peruvian restaurant on the bluffs of Montara State Beach where you can watch the setting sun as you enjoy your meal. A restaurant that is perfect for dates or a causal meal with friends.
Here Comes the Sun: this quaint new coffee shop just off Highway 1 in Montara is the perfect stop before your commute. Locally owned and expanding, Here Comes the Sun is a great treat for the locals of Montara with lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and more to get you through your work day. It is also the perfect place to feel at home with large comfy couches, chairs and a patio to keep your pet with you.
~Schools~
Farallone View Elementary School: named after the islands seen off the Montara coastline, Montara elementary is a public school tucked away from Montara. Across from an Alpaca farm, it is a great place to send your child while still being close to home.
~Ranches~
Having trouble finding a property in the area with a lot big enough for your horse? Montara is perfect for you with many horse ranches to board your horse! Perhaps you’re looking for horseback riding lessons for you or your child. These ranches can cater to your every desire and help you learn more about horses as well has find a spot for your beautiful animal.
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