Romantic escape to Half Moon Bay, California

make a romantic escape to Half Moon Bay

AG Workman

Things to do in Half Moon Bay, California

Insider's guide to Santa Cruz, California

Looking for the perfect romantic getaway, a short distance from San Francisco? Look no further than the coastal community of Half Moon Bay. This beach town has miles of beaches, restaurants and a charming downtown Main Street. It takes 30 minutes or less from San Francisco so you can plan a quick trip or a more leisurely one and still have time to relax and enjoy yourself.

Choose the Half Moon Bay Inn in downtown, for the start of your romantic interlude. This historic inn, built in 1932 has been completely renovated with modern amenities. You will enjoy this luxury boutique hotel with fourteen rooms to choose from. Guest rooms are nicely decorated with a blend of both historic and modern elements including pieces from Mexico and South America. Each is unique with a collection of antiques, some with crystal chandeliers, but all have comfortable modern beds, luxury linens and marble bathrooms. The rooms are luxurious without being fussy and come with plush robes.

The Inn also has large family suites with kitchens that make for a perfect vacation or longer getaway. Weekends can be fully-booked, so consider staying a Sunday or week-night for a better selection of rooms. And if you can't leave town without your dog, the Inn is dog-friendly. See photo below of one of the rooms.

For your romantic time you will want to procure a bottle of wine or bubbly to enjoy with dinner or in your room. Fortunately, you are in luck. Barterra Winery is located on Main Street and they make exceptional wines in limited production. Their 2006 Alexander Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon won a "Bronze Medal" at the 2010 San Francisco International Wine Competition. They only made 168 cases, so it is going quickly. They also have a sparkling wine that is perfect on a warm day. You can enjoy a taste or a glass of wine in their enchanting Italian-style courtyard. The Tasting Room is open Thursday through Monday and by appointment. They also have an art gallery next door with one-of-a-kind pieces that are exceptional, see photo below.

Speaking of exceptional, the retail stores found on Main Street offer unique hand-crafted items. Each store has a story, take a few minutes to discover what it is. Personal FX located in the Barterra Winery complex sells hand-crafted jewelry, accessories, and textiles. The owner, is a jewelry designer herself and chooses stunning pieces at all price points. She travels the globe searching for treasures so you don't have to. Take some time to look in each of the drawers in the architectural cabinet for special finds. For a listing of additional shops on the Coastside, click here.

For an afternoon snack, coffee or sandwich, visit Moonside Bakery & Cafe. This family-owned business has been preparing the freshest breads, pastries and cakes for 16 years for locals and local restaurants. There is outdoor seating to savor your pastry and watch people pass by. They make everything from scratch including their lunch menu. You probably wouldn't expect a town the size of Half Moon Bay to have its own certified pastry chef, but Moonside Bakery does. Once you taste the food you will appreciate the difference. Also pick up a dessert to enjoy in your room as a complement to the wine.

You can enjoy a glass of wine in the outdoor patio at It's Italia. During sunny days they have adequate shade and during cold days they offer heat-lamps and fireplaces. This is a romantic place to sip wine and enjoy your date. You may feel like you are in an Italian courtyard with the Romanesque style fountain. See above photo of courtyard at It's Italia.

For dinner you have a few decisions to make. If you want to walk to dinner, you can choose between Italian, Mediterranean, Japanese, and California cuisine. If you prefer to drive somewhere perhaps with water views, you also have a selection. Click here for a listing of restaurants, a short distance from downtown, some located on or near the water.

After dinner you may want to stroll Main Street, along the water in Princeton Harbor, or Miramar Beach to watch the sunset. If you are looking for a night-cap you might try the San Benito House, which has a lively locals scene. They have a comprehensive, beer and wine selection and have live music on weekends. They are located across from the Half Moon Bay Inn, so you don't have far to walk. Above photo of Princeton Harbor.

After a busy day of leisure, enjoy the comfort and luxury of the hotel. Break-out the bottle of wine and dessert and have a romantic evening together. Photo of outside patio of Terrazzo Room.

If you are spending a few days in Half Moon Bay, you may want to consider a round of golf at the challenging Half Moon Bay Golf Links nearby. She can enjoy shopping or spa time at the Ritz Carlton. For a listing of the many things to do in Half Moon Bay, click here. There are several small beach communities located up and down the Coast, a short drive from Half Moon Bay, click here for places to visit.

No matter how much time you spend in Half Moon Bay the visit will leave you rejuvinated. Because it is a quick escape, come back often and stay longer.