The Allmusic review by Richard S. Ginell awarded the album 4 stars and called it "some of the better live work from Evans during this period of his life".[2] The All About Jazz review by Douglas Payne stated "Well recorded and produced, Half Moon Bay is a welcome addition to the burgeoning Bill Evans catalog and presents a compelling argument for the notability of this trio, featuring bassist Eddie Gomez, as one of the pianist's three best. Recommended".[3]