Purissima Ghost Town & Historic Cemetery
If you're in Half Moon Bay & ready to ditch the beach for something a little more spooky, look no more!
I have a hidden gem just for you.
Just hidden off California’s scenic highway one in Half Moon Bay, lies Purissima Historic Cemetery.
As you approach the small hillside leading up to the cemetery, before you can even see the gravesites, you can hear the wind whispering in the trees, birds chirping, and the sounds of Pirisima Creek winding its way through the lush green hillside.
Muffled in the background ocean waves crash, and on clear days you can see its vast blue water gleaming against the skyline.
The History
Dating back to the 1800s this settlement was one of the first in the San Mateo area. Being in a remote area, the village was hard to maintain. As residents were faced with multiple floods and crop failures the population declined over time.
All that remains today is the little cemetery tucked away in the mossy Monterey Cypress and wildflowers.
Most recently in 2017, Ed Bixby purchased the site with the goal of restoring its beauty. The old sites were cleaned up, and new green burial sites emerged.
A Different Approach Than The "Norm"
Today this hidden cemetery offers a natural burial option versus coffins and cremation. The most interesting thing was that I didn’t even know this was a burial option anymore. Did you?
Most of the burial sites are lined with rocks or seashells. Some even have little gardens on top, with benches for the family to sit and pay respects.
It's an interesting way to return to the earth, and definitely made me ponder things I hope I still don't have to ponder for a while like, "Where I will end up when all is said and done?"
I won't get too morbid on you, but if you love cemeteries as much as I do, this one is worth checking out!
Things to know:
The parking area filled up quickly!
Bring a jacket as the area gets windy and cold on the coast.
Poison ok is everywhere as is common in this area. Be mindful when wandering the sites.
This is a burial ground where people are still laying their loved ones to rest today. Please be respectful so we can maintain this piece of history for future generations to see.
3 of my other top locations to visit in the area:
Pigeon Point Light House - The area and Lighthouse were named after the Carrier Pigeon, a ship sunk by the rocky coastline in 1853. The whole crew was saved, but the area took down 3 or 4 more in addition to that.
Cowell Ranch Beach - Lined with wildflowers and the sparkling blue Pacific Ocean in the distance, this picturesque trail is one to steal your breath away! Take the leisurely half-mile walk out to the bluffs crossing over the site of the old Ocean Shore Railroad. Keep your eyes open for harbor seals!
Ano Nuevo State Park - Roughly a 30-minute drive south is Ano Nuevo state park, known for its elephant seal population and migratory birds. Hike out to the bluffs for the views, or between March - December take a guided walk to see the seals. Reservations are made through www.reservecalifornia.com
I've heard paranormal experts have visited and collected EVPs. Are you brave enough to try while you're there? I would love to hear about your experience.