Destinations / TRAVEL BUZZ
EVERY YEAR AROUND this time, Half Moon Bay is flooded with pumpkin hunters from around the Bay Area who are also looking
for a great place to stay. With that in mind, we
take a look at the Ritz-Carlton,
Half Moon Bay, which has been
called a “slice of Scotland on the
Northern California coast” by Forbes Travel
Guide. While the place is best known for its t wo
golf courses, sunset-serenading kilted bagpipe
player and award-winning spa, the white sand
beach below the property is a hidden gem — easily
accessed and, depending on the tide, great for a
scenic walk. ritzcartlon.com
HIGHLIGHTS If superlatives are your thing,
the resort is now home to the most expensive
cigar in the world. This stellar stogie, made by
Kaizad Hansotia, founder of Gurkha Cigars, in
1996, is infused with a full shot of 40-year-old
Louis XIII Remy Martin. For just $2,000, you
can take home a replica.
EATS For a feel-good meal of sustainable
seafood and organic farm-to-table fare,
book a table for two at the fine dining restaurant Novia. Hawaii-born and -trained
chef Kevin Tanaka offers oysters from
Point Reyes, hamachi from Honolulu and
Alaskan halibut paired with bounty from
nearby farms. This month he celebrates the golden gourd (aka
pumpkin) in soups, ravioli fillings, curries and more.
DETAILS Good news for those just
wanting to escape for the day: two of the big-
gest draws have joined forces for the $300
“Spa Golf Day” package, which includes a
round of golf and an hour spa treatment with
glass of champagne. Or enjoy the wintry
weather with a “Fire and Wine” package,
which includes a guest room with a fire pit
on the terrace, s’more kit and bottle of select
wine, all starting at $910 per night.
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TANK
OF GAS
DESTINATION: Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
DISTANCE FROM MARIN: 40 miles south
LOS CABOS COMEBACK While gazing out from the rooftop infinity pool at
Hotel El Ganzo or enjoying a drink at Casa Del Mar’s swim-up bar, you wouldn’t guess that just
a year ago Hurricane Odile devastated Los Cabos — but that’s exactly what happened. The
18-mile stretch between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo has proved resilient, though,
with most resorts and hotels (like the two aforementioned ones) back to full operation. So
whether your vacation requirements include special golf outings or signature spa treatments,
your needs will be covered here. casadelmar.com.mx, elganzo.com KASIA PA WLO WSKA
