About Half Moon Bay's Martin's Beach

Getting Ready to Enjoy Martin's Beach, CA 94019

Yesterday we closed on my buyers' purchase of a little cottage in Martin's Beach, CA. They are ecstatic, and as soon as I delivered their keys to them this afternoon, off they went on the 45-minute drive across the Peninsula to check on their wonderful, magical spot.


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Located about 7 miles south of Half Moon Bay, on the San Mateo County Coast, is an enclave of about 50 cottages that cling to the side of the cliffs, just off Highway 1, the Cabrillo Highway. There is no hint of this settlement from the highway, and few people know about these cottages at Martin's Beach.

This is a special community where a few people live year round, but most are cottages used as weekend retreats and family vacation spots. Many of these little cottages have been in the same family for generations, passed down from grandparent, to parent, to child. Memories of bonfires on the beach, potluck dinners with friends and neighbors, and carefree days are precious to those who were fortunate to spend time here over the years.

These are leased cottages, and the landowner appears to have no intention of renewing the leases once they run out in approximately 10 years. So now, with the end in sight, some owners are choosing to cash out while there's a bit of value left and while there are some all-cash buyers able and willing to pay to create their own family memories over the next 10 or so years.

To my buyers -- I wish you years of joy in your special spot with your children, grandchildren, and friends. Rich memories will be made here, I'm certain. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your adventure.

Buying Property in a Hidden Gem -- Martin's Beach, California

A few miles south of Half Moon Bay, in San Mateo County, California lies a hidden gem -- Martin's Beach.

The rural land known as Martin's Beach is comprised of approximately 80 acres, set between the Cabrillo Highway (Highway One) and the Pacific Ocean. After having been owned by the same family for many years, last year this large parcel was sold for approximately $40,000,000.

This sale was made subject to leases of approximately 50 small cottages which cling to the side of the bluff, just above the Pacific Ocean. The leases have around 8.5 to 10.5 years left, and then the cottages are expected to revert to the landowner. Many of these cottages have been in the same families for generations. Now, with a short time left on the lease. some lessees are choosing to sell.

I've had the delightful job of exploring some of these cottages with one of my clients who would enjoy having a special place, not far from the bustling life in Silicon Valley, where they can bring their children and grandchildren to enjoy carefree beach days.

Their purchase offer came together today, so we'll see what the next few weeks bring!

When you hear the ocean in the video, and know that these cottages are tucked away at the end of a gated drive, not to be seen from the highway above, it gives you a clue to how enchanting this place truly is.