Review: The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

Why did this hotel catch your attention? Perched on the rugged cliffs along the Pacific coastline, The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is a hotel you can easily imagine being somewhere on the East Coast or even on the Scottish bluffs. The 261-room resort overlooks the magnificent ocean, golf courses and has access to trails and beaches. Just a short 50-minute drive from San Francisco or Silicon Valley, it's perfect for romantic getaways.

What's the backstory? Opened in 2002, this is one of the few resorts, perhaps the only resort, of this size and scale located directly on Northern California's shoreline. The Shingle style architecture of the hotel, which is much more common on the East Coast, comes from trying blend a building into the coast's asymmetrical landscape.

Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? The nautical details you would expect at a hotel set on the water are used very sparingly, which is very appreciated. The standard rooms are decorated in hues of gray, bright blue, and slate, hinting at coastal accents. There is a natural calm breezing through the rooms that comes from their isolated location. Ground floor rooms with private fire pits and the extra deep bathtubs are perfect for a full body soak.

Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The Wi-Fi is good while you are in the hotel, outside you quickly lose the connection. But hey, isn’t it why you are here? To disconnect?

Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? There are three restaurants here. The Conservatory, mimicking a modern beach house, is great for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner, while the Ocean Terrace features an oyster bar and grilled specialties. But the real star is Navio, the acclaimed restaurant from Chef Jakob Esko that focuses on coastal flavors. The restaurant hosts the Global Cuisine Series, welcoming other internationally acclaimed chefs as well. You get greeted with a glass of wine at the check-in, and the front desk staff is efficient and super friendly. If you need an itinerary, the concierge will be more than happy to organize everything for you - from horseback riding to kayaking.

And the service? You're greeted with a glass of wine at check-in and the front desk staff is efficient and friendly. If you need an itinerary, the concierge will be more than happy to organize outings like horseback riding or kayaking for you.

Who else stays here? There are many folks in their best resort-casual attire, but also surprisingly, many young professionals in Patagonia vests from all over Silicon Valley. Since Northern California has a laid-back vibe anyway, you are just fine in anything but a pair of old sweats.

Any other hotel features worth noting? Around sunset time, a bagpiper creates a magical experience on the cliffs. This is the moment where you genuinely feel like you could be in Scotland.