Half Moon Bay California

I had the pleasure and privilege to travel to Half Moon Bay California for business - July 21-24, 2011.  For those of you unfamiliar with the area - Half Moon Bay is located about 20 miles south of San Francisco.  It is a sleepy little coastal town known for its plant nurseries and pumpkin patches.  If travelling to the area - check the weather - it will not be what you think.  While the rest of the country was under a Heat Advisory - I enjoyed temperatures ranging from 55-62 degrees.  As Mark Twain said - "The Coldest Winter I ever spent was a summer in Northern California..."

My Take:  Would I personally vacation to Half Moon Bay - probably not.  And I do not mean that as a negative comment.  My vacations usually consist of a little more activity and adventure.  Half Moon Bay is a great location to do absolutely NOTHING!  If you are looking to escape - this is your place.  Enjoy the ocean, enjoy the weather, enjoy the quiet and enjoy a good book. 

My Stay:  I stayed at the Ritz Carlton at Half Moon Bay.  Wonderful resort - right on the water.  They had a great spa and workout facility.  The staff was extremely pleasant.  The Fire Pits were great fun!  I would highly recommend this resort!

The resort in surrounded by the Half Moon Bay Golf Links - two courses - the Old Course and the Ocean Course.  The courses will be a challenge but it is truly a gift to play if you enjoy the game.  I have not been on a course quite like this!

My Eats:  I had a chance to sample two local restaurants - Sam's Chowder House and Mezza Luna.  Let's start with Sam's... The Clam Chowder is the best I have ever had!  I went back for seconds!  The atmosphere and scenic view - was wonderful!  I would definitely go back!  http://www.samschowderhouse.com/

Mezza Luna was ranked #2 on Tripadvisor.  The service was less than stellar (not rude or bad - just extremely slow) - but the food was fantastic!  Unusual interpretations of traditional favorites!  http://www.mezzalunabythesea.com/

I was also told to try Pasta Moon but it was booked out the entire length of my stay - must be good!

Overall - Would I go back...?  I would stay a day or so but I would not plan a lengthy vacation here.  If you are travelling the coast of California - definitely stop in!