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Poplar Beach beach in Half Moon Bay, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Poplar Beach

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Poplar Beach, located in the charming coastal town of Half Moon Bay, California, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast. What makes this beach unique is its picturesque views, gentle slopes, and abundant wildlife, including seals and sea lions that can often be spotted basking in the sun. The beach is also surrounded by scenic hiking trails, offering stunning vistas of the coastline and the opportunity to explore the area's diverse flora and fauna.

Visitors to Poplar Beach can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and surfing, although the latter is best suited for experienced surfers due to strong currents and rip tides. The beach also offers amenities such as picnic tables, restrooms, and plenty of parking, making it an ideal spot for families and groups. During the summer months, the beach can get crowded, but the cooler winter months offer a more serene and peaceful experience. It's worth noting that the best time to visit Poplar Beach is during low tide, when the beach is at its widest and most accessible.

When visiting Poplar Beach, it's essential to be mindful of safety considerations, particularly during strong surf and rip tide conditions. Visitors should always swim at a lifeguarded beach and follow basic surf safety guidelines. Additionally, the beach is prone to strong winds and fog, especially during the winter months, so it's a good idea to dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. With its stunning natural beauty, range of activities, and scenic surroundings, Poplar Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Half Moon Bay, and with some basic precautions and planning, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Quick Answers

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Is Poplar Beach kid-friendly?

Poplar Beach may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Poplar Beach good for surfing?

Waves are large at 6.8ft - for experienced surfers only.

What is the best time of year to visit Poplar Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Poplar Beach?

Poplar Beach tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Poplar Beach?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (57°F, wetsuit required), large waves (6.8ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes
Paid parking: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Picnic tables: Yes

Environment & Maintenance

Trash bins: Yes

Infrastructure

Benches: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 54°F
Wind: 4 mph
Air pressure: 1023 hPa
Feels like: 51°F
Wind direction: NE
PM 2.5: 6 µg/m³
Humidity: 77%
AQI: 32
PM 10: 9 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 13 mi
Dew point: 47°F
Conditions: Clear sky

💧 SEA

Water temp: 57°F
Wave height: 6.8 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 8 sec
Current velocity: 0.9 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 2.95
Sunrise: 7:23 AM
Cloud cover: 8%
Sunset: 4:59 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.6 hrs

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Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

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