Study Objectives:

To identify the amount and types of recreational use on the California Coastal Trail near Redondo Beach Road in the City of Half Moon Bay, California, prior to major trail improvements by the Coastside Land Trust (CLT); determine visitor characteristics; reasons for visiting; and user experience quality.

Methods:

Trained volunteers administered a visitor intercept survey to every visitor group passing the survey location on two weekend days (April 26 and May 10) and two weekdays (April 29 and May 1) in 2025. Qualtrics survey software was used to analyze the data. Dr.Tierney prepared the final report.

Executive Summary:

The existing dirt trail is already a tremendously popular recreational resource. In excess of 470 people passed by the survey location in four days. An average of 161 people used the trail on weekend days. The vast majority of trail users were not local residents, with over ¾ of trail users residing outside the Coastside. Users overall were very pleased with their trail experience, and the planned new trail improvements will address many of the trail users’ biggest concerns. Results suggest visitor use is conservatively growing at 10-20% per year. Based on the survey and trail facilities, total 2025 trail use may exceed 15,000 visits. With pristine scenic ocean views, safe beach access, planned new trail surfacing and facilities, no entry fee, and with coming social/mainstream media coverage, trail use is projected to grow substantially in the next five years. Some survey respondents and nearby residents feel there is also potential for over-use and abuse of the area resources and facilities. The survey showed peak use during weekends was approaching new trailhead parking capacity. The number of trailhead parking places may limit future trail use.