The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Set on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the most beautiful coastlines in California, the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is one of my favorite vacation resorts in the country. Friendly valet attendants rushed to assist with my luggage and escorted me to the front desk once my car turn onto the driveway. Walking into the magnificent resort, one could easily see why the property is referred to as “Castle on the Coast.” The six-story hotel with 261 rooms looked like an immense, yet elegant castle sitting on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Entering my room, a chilled bottle of wine with freshly baked crostini, accompanied by a note from the Ritz-Carlton staff that welcomed my stay. These were just a few delightful surprises from the moment I arrived. Just outside my windows one could see the ocean and the lush green golf courses amid the majestic landscape. I cannot imagine a better view to wake up to while on vacation.

If you appreciate the outdoors, there are endless fun activities to choose, from horseback riding, golf, surfing to swimming and tennis. I took advantage of the beach cruiser bikes provided to overnight guests. The trail begins at the hotel and runs parallel to the Northern California coastline. Riding my bike among the grassy meadows overlooking the ocean with sea air blowing in my hair felt like floating on the clouds. I rode past two championship golf courses along the bike trail and could see friendly waves from golfers enjoying their games amid the posh fairways against the magnificent backdrop. As the day turns into evening, guests can relax and take in the dreamy sunset with a glass of champagne or hot chocolate on the Ocean Lawn, or roast marshmallows by the outdoor fire pits. Throughout my stay, the staff was friendly and went above and beyond to be helpful. I am already looking forward to my next trip back