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Princeton-by-the-Sea, California facts for kids

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Princeton-By-The-Sea restaurant sign
Restaurant sign in Princeton-by-the-Sea, 2006
Pillar Point Harbor in April 2007
Pillar Point Harbor in April 2007
Christmas View of Princeton Harbor and Pillar Point - 2014
Pillar Point Harbor on Christmas 2014

Princeton-by-the-Sea is a small coastal community in San Mateo County, California. People sometimes call it just Princeton. It's a place where many people visit for its beautiful harbor and ocean views. The area has a special ZIP code of 94019 and is in area code 650.

Discover Princeton-by-the-Sea

This area has a rich history. Long ago, before Europeans arrived, Ohlone tribes lived here. They called this place Ssatumnumo. Another village, Chagunte, was nearby, close to Half Moon Bay.

What Makes Princeton Special?

Princeton-by-the-Sea is known for its unique environment. Many different kinds of ocean birds, called pelagic birds, visit the area because of the nearby Pillar Point Harbor. This makes it a great spot for birdwatching!

The community is also famous for its harbor activities. It has been a popular place for tourists since the early 1900s. Back then, the Princeton Inn Hotel opened, inviting visitors to enjoy the coast. In the year 2000, about 297 people lived in Princeton-by-the-Sea.

Things to Do in Princeton

Besides the busy harbor with its piers and docks, Princeton offers many things for visitors. You can find shops, restaurants, and places to stay. The community is located right near State Route 1, also known as the Cabrillo Highway. It's just north of Half Moon Bay and south of Moss Beach. The Half Moon Bay Airport is also very close, just north of Princeton.

Surfing at Mavericks

Did you know that the famous surfing competition called Mavericks actually happens in Princeton? Even though many people think it's in Half Moon Bay, the giant waves are right here!

It's common for addresses in Princeton-by-the-Sea to be listed as Half Moon Bay addresses.

Princeton's Location and Environment

Princeton-by-the-Sea is located on flat land, only about five feet (1.5 meters) above sea level. The ground here drains water well. This is because the surface is made of marine deposits, with layers of sand and gravel underneath. Until 1973, a lot of farming took place just north of Princeton.

A panorama of Princeton-by-the-Sea from Breakwater

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Princeton-by-the-Sea para niños

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