Half Moon Bay Explores Sister City Partnership with Nazare, Portugal

Both small towns with global name recognition, fishing, and big waves transitioning to tourism

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:05pm

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The Half Moon Bay City Council is considering a proposal to establish a sister city partnership with Nazare, Portugal. The two coastal towns share similarities, including global name recognition for their fishing industries and big wave surfing, as well as a transition towards tourism-based economies.

Why it matters

A sister city partnership could foster cultural and economic exchanges between Half Moon Bay and Nazare, potentially boosting tourism and trade opportunities for both communities as they navigate shifts away from traditional industries.

The details

During a recent City Council meeting, resident Jonathan Olivera advocated for the sister city proposal, noting the parallels between Half Moon Bay and Nazare. Both are small coastal towns that have gained worldwide fame for their fishing and big wave surfing, but are now transitioning towards tourism-based economies.

  • The Half Moon Bay City Council discussed the sister city proposal during their regular meeting on March 17, 2026.
  • If approved, the partnership between Half Moon Bay and Nazare would be formalized in the coming months.

The players

Half Moon Bay City Council

The governing body of the City of Half Moon Bay, California, responsible for setting priorities, policies, and approving the annual budget.

Jonathan Olivera

A resident of Half Moon Bay who advocated for the sister city partnership with Nazare, Portugal during a City Council meeting.

Nazare

A coastal town in Portugal known for its fishing industry and big wave surfing, similar to Half Moon Bay.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

If approved, the partnership between Half Moon Bay and Nazare would be formalized in the coming months.

The takeaway

A sister city partnership between Half Moon Bay and Nazare could foster valuable cultural and economic exchanges as both towns transition from traditional industries like fishing towards tourism-based economies.