Located just 30 minutes south of San Francisco, serene Half Moon Bay is an ideal weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. And for a luxurious accommodation in the area, look no further than the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay. Perched upon a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this resort features two iconic golf courses, a world-class spa, and postcard-perfect sunsets.

The Rooms

Ritz Carlton accommodations never disappoint, but the rooms at the Half Moon Bay property are incredibly spacious and luxurious. The muted blue palette is peaceful and perfectly reflective of the tranquil ocean setting. Feather beds are adorned with 400-thread count Egyptian cotton linens and 100% goose down pillows. After sunset, guests can shut their blinds electronically from a switch at their bedside. And in the morning, guests can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee from the in-room Nespresso.

The roomy marble bathroom includes an oversized soaking tub, a standing shower, a large vanity area complete with Asprey London bath products, and plush terry-cloth robes.

Resort Amenities

The resort is well known for its two championship golf courses: The Ocean Course and the Old Course. Guests can also pursue athletics by renting one of the six lighted tennis courts, swimming laps in the indoor heated swimming pool, running or walking along the Coastal Trails, or enjoying the on-site fitness center. For guests looking for some more R&R, the 16,000 square foot spa and beauty salon offer a variety of treatments.

In my opinion the most enjoyable activity at the resort is sitting out on the back lawn at one of the three large gas fire pits with a glass of local wine, listening to the bagpiper as the sun sets over the Pacific.

Dining

• The Ocean Terrace: Open 12 pm – Sunset, the ocean terrace offers ideal alfresco dining for lunch or an afternoon snack and cocktail
• The Conservatory: Open 11 am – 11 pm, The Conservatory highlights fresh, organic and community-grown ingredients as well as cocktails crafted with ingredients from the living wall
• Navio: Open for dinner Thursday-Sunday, Navio offers a more upscale dining experience featuring seafood and coastal Californian cuisine
• Cork Wine Bar & Library Bar: Adjacent to the lobby, the Cork Wine Bar offers an intimate setting to sample California wines. The adjacent Library Bar is often used for events.

Area Activities

The resort offers a whole list of area activities to enjoy. On prior trips, I have spent time exploring the small town of Half Moon Bay, eating at the local fish shacks along the main wharf, and walking along the famed Half Moon Bay beaches.

On this most recent visit, I also had the opportunity to hike in a young Redwood Forest, located just 10 minutes drive from the hotel.

I also highly recommend taking advantage of the Coastal Trails adjacent to the resort. I thoroughly enjoyed my morning run at sunrise.

The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is a truly magical place and if you’re looking for a romantic (or even a family or solo getaway), you will find peace and indulgence at this hotel.

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