The tiny town of Moss Beach, CA, has long been a destination for city dwellers looking to take in the beauty of the Northern California coast. This foggy coastal hideaway—just 10 minutes from Half Moon Bay, CA, and the iconic big-wave surfing spot of Mavericks—is a particularly magical stretch of land.

It’s also the site of an impeccable, 5,060-square-foot new build dubbed the Gray Whale House. Just completed in 2024, the coastal modern masterpiece is listed for $12.9 million. At that price, it’s far and away the town’s most expensive, single-family home for sale.

Situated on an unencumbered half-acre lot right off of Highway 1, the four-bedroom house is a testament to the patience and ingenuity required to pull off a project of this size.

“It took 6 years to get the design, permits, and construction completed—two years to build,” says listing agent Patrick J. Ryan, a Realtor® at Compass.

Eco-friendly design

The home’s architecture and interior design were influenced by the landscape surrounding the home, with a focus on sustainability and top-grade finishes.

“The owners worked at creating a modern home with simple design, using the high-quality materials and details not seen on the San Mateo Coast,” Ryan says. “Maintaining the connection with the environment on-site was important.”

A prime example of the home’s thoughtful engineering and energy efficiency is the hydronic floor-heating system that was installed throughout. Hydronic heating—like radiant heating—is one of the greenest, most cost-effective forms of residential heating.

Coastal modern aesthetic

Natural wood, glass, and stainless steel are the primary materials that contribute to the home’s coastal modern aesthetic. The open-concept main level boasts high ceilings covered in wood planks; as well as a floating staircase with cable railings; a double-sided, bio-fuel fireplace; a chef’s kitchen; and a dining area surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows.

And those windows frame quite the view.

“The seamless corner windows on the ocean side provide 180-degree whitewater ocean views,” Ryan says. “Over 50 tons of steel framing allow for large, spacious rooms and high ceilings; so upon entering the home, the main living area provides an experience of being on the ocean.”

This floor of the home also features a large, three-panel, sliding-glass door (one of several in the home) that leads out to a large deck.

The home is built for comfort, with two primary suites, including the spacious owner’s suite that has vaulted ceilings and a spa-inspired bathroom with a soaking tub.

Deluxe extras

Downstairs, a large entertainment room is invitingly outfitted with a bar, island, and access to a covered patio that can function as an outdoor living room.

The property also comes with a detached garage and an electric-vehicle hookup.

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