Destination: Half Moon Bay, California Summer Happenings

While the rest of the country is soon to be in the midst of a summer swelter, Half Moon Bay's temperate climate provides the perfect setting for fun summer activities – from horseback riding on the beach, surfing the waves and hiking coastal trails, to sipping California wines and dining on the area's best organic produce and wild ocean catches.

Half Moon Bay, a charming seaside community located approximately 40 minutes south of San Francisco, offers the best of California all in one conveniently located place. Nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this breathtaking area offers miles of white sandy beaches, redwood forests, beautiful state parks, fields of wild flowers, and trails along ocean bluffs and mountain ridges as far as the eye can see. A sampling of activities include horseback riding on the beach, farm fresh dining, surfing, biking, hiking, world-class golfing, and much more.



- EVENTS -

Coastside Art Weekends (free!)

May 5-6, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
May 6, 2 p.m.-5 p.m.
August 5, from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

During these art-filled weekend events, two groups representing over 75 artists will be hosting “Coastside Art Weekends” in and around Half Moon Bay.

• On May 5 & 6 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., the Colony of Coastside Artists (CoCA) will host “Open Studios,” an event that will premiere the works of over 35 artists in nine different studios from Montara to Half Moon Bay. Visitors to the “Open Studios” can survey local art and will get to enjoy a variety of free art demonstrations throughout the weekend. For more information, visit www.colonyofcoastsideartists.com.

• On Sunday, May 6 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., visitors are welcome to take a “Spring Art Stroll” down Main Street, where over 40 artists will display their works. Organized by Half Moon Bay South Main Arts (HMB SOMA Arts), there will also be live music and refreshments. For more information, visit www.hmbsomaarts.org.

• On Sunday, August 5 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., the “Summer Art Stroll” down Main Street will boast over 45 artists, live music and refreshments. For more information, visit www.hmbsomaarts.org.
All events are free and open to the public. Media Contact: Ellen Joseph, ellen@ellenjoseph.com.

Third Annual Artisan Food Fair (free!)
May 12, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

This mouthwatering event, sponsored by kitchenware store Toque Blanche, will feature gourmet artisans who will present and discuss their delicious creations. Celebrity Chef Martin Yan will prepare a savory stir fry, offer cooking tips and sign books. Guests will get a chance to taste the specialties from local artisans including chocolates, lavender, vinegars, olive oils, coffees and more. This event is free and open to the public. La Piazza Courtyard, 604 Main Street. For more information contact Toque Blanche, (650) 726-2898. Media Contact: Charles Nelson, (650) 726-6559, nelson@mytoque.com.

Rock the Block - Coastside Block Party (free!)
May 19, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Half Moon Bay will get their groove on at the annual “Rock the Block - Coastside Block Party.” Delicious cuisine, live music and entertainment will fill the streets. Entrance to the event is free and open to the public. Downtown Main Street. For more information, contact the Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce & Visitors' Bureau, (650) 726-8380 or visit www.rocktheblockhmb.com. Media Contact: Charise McHugh, (650) 726-8380, charise@hmbchamber.com.

Holy Ghost Festival (free!)
May 25-28, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Holy Ghost Festival, also known as “Chamarita,” recalls 16th Century Portuguese Queen Isabella, the famine that blighted her people and the arrival of a ship with food that saved them. The grateful queen took her crown to her church altar and centuries later Portuguese communities celebrate this with a festival and parades to church, led by a young woman portraying the queen and carrying a crown.The weekend celebration includes a colorful parade and marching bands, a carnival, equestrian groups, a barbeque and more. Free to the public. IDES Grounds, 735 Main Street, (650) 726-2729.

2012 Steelhead Festival (free!)
May 26, Festival 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cocktails 6 p.m.; Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Fishingenthusiasts, outdoors loversand families will have fun while feeling good at the Steelhead Festival. Organized by The Coastal Alliance for Species, guests will enjoy live music, special exhibits and presentations, guest speakers, special kids' activities,food, beer and wine while helping to the preserve Pescadero Marsh. A special celebration seafood dinner and live auction follows. Admittance to the festival is free; dinner tickets are $35 per person. Pescadero IDES Hall, www.caseforourenvironment.org.

21st Annual Tour des Fleurs
July 21, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Half Moon Bay's flourishing bounty of fruits and vegetables is in full abundance during the summer, and there's no better way to take a bite than at the 21st Annual Tour des Fleurs. This unique event offers the public a special, once-a-year opportunity to tour the local nurseries, greenhouses, wineries and farms, many of which are not ordinarily open to the public. There are six tour packages to choose from, each consisting of one-hour tours at three different nurseries which range from flower gardens to organic field greens, a working dairy farm and a winery. Tour packages are $20. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact the Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce & Visitors' Bureau, (650) 726-8380 or visit www.halfmoonbaychamber.org. Media Contact: Charise McHugh, (650) 726-8380, charise@hmbchamber.com.

Pescadero Art & Fun Festival (free!)
August 18-19, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Visitors and locals can enjoy the bounty of the area at this fun-filled festival featuring home cooked cuisine that celebrates the local farmers, handcrafted artisan goods, live entertainment and a special Kids Korall. IDES Pescadero, (650) 879-0848, www.pescaderoartsandfunfestival.org.

- LOCAL RICHES –

Fishin' Season

Time to dust off those fishing rods and head for the ocean! King salmon season is now open through Halloween off the San Mateo coastline. The season is also now open for rockfish, lingcod and cabezon along the coastline south of Pigeon Point, an area approximately 18 miles south of Half Moon Bay.

Several local companies offer recreational fishing excursions:

• Bait & Switch Sportfishing, (650) 726-7133, baitandswitchsportfishing.com
• Half Moon Bay Sportfishing & Tackle, (650) 728-3377, www.hmbfishing.com
• Huli Cat Sportfishing, (650) 726-2926, www.hulicat.com
• Riptide Sportfishing, (888) 747-8433, www.riptide.net

Or, leave the work to the professionals, and buy freshly caught fish directly from the local fisherman. For a nominal fee, Princeton Seafood will clean and filet freshly caught fish and pack it on ice to go (to have your fish cooked, call in advance). Order some tasty side dishes and have a feast at one of their outside picnic tables. Pillar Point Harbor, #9 Johnson Pier, Princeton-By-The-Sea, (650) 726-2722, www.princetonseafood.com.To find out the day's catch, call Pillar Point Harbor, (650) 726-8724, ext.3.

Fresh from the Field

The 10th Annual Coastside Market is in full swing with approximately 30 booths overflowing with an abundance of locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, gourmet cheese, herbs and farm fresh eggs available for purchase. Recently taking over the number two spot on “The Bay Area A-List's Best Farmers Market” in the region, the Coastside Market features local artisans, dancers, and musicians at the market each week, as well as a number of community groups. The market is held outdoors annually from May through December on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Shoreline Station parking lot (Kelly Avenue & Cabrillo Hwy/Hwy 1). For more information, contact (650) 726-4895, farmersmarket@coastside.net or visit www.coastsidefarmersmarket.org.

Horticulture Heaven

Yerba Buena Nursery, California's oldest retail native plant nursery, boasts a stunning 2.5 acre demonstration garden that is host to hundreds of native California plants ranging up to 25 years old. On June 9 at 12 p.m., the nursery will host a special “Wildflower Tea” in the historic 1905 Farmhouse, complete with sandwiches, scones, pastries and hot tea. Cost: $30 per person; reservations are required. The nursery is open to visitors Tuesday - Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 19500 Skyline Blvd., (650) 851-1668, www.yerbabuenanursery.com.

A Trip Back in Time

The James Johnston House, an unusual saltbox-style home known as “The White House of Half Moon Bay,” is offering free tours on the third Saturday of every month now through September from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. This classic New England style home with two stories in front and one in back, was built by '49er pioneer James Johnston between 1853-1855, for his bride, Petra Maria de Jara. The building is now listed on the National Register of Historical Places. 110 Higgins-Purisma Road, (650) 726-0329, www.johnstonhouse.org.

Land & Sea Farmers Market
Every Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm

The Land & Sea Farmers Market has kicked off at Harbor Village inside the shops and outside in the quad year round every Sunday, come rain or shine. The Land & Sea Farmers Market features the best from local farmers, growers, and produce connoisseurs. Guests can pick up delicious fresh products such as strawberries, herbs, eggs, flowers, jams, honey, soap and cheeses among other fantastic goodies. There is also music and activities for everyone to enjoy. 270 Capistrano Road, Princeton by the Sea, (888) 606-4862.

Farm Dinners

Green Oaks Creek Farm and Retreat is offering a series of seasonal farm dinners where guests willtour the beautiful grounds, learn about their organic gardens, and enjoy a multicourse meal made from ingredients that were grown just steps away. Price per dinner is $140 plus tax and includes wine and all gratuities. Buy a series of three dinners and receive a 20% discount. For a schedule and to purchase tickets, visit www.greenoakscreek.com.

- WINE NEWS -

In Vino Veritas

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is offering an ongoing “Vintner Series” with premium wines from local winemakers. A wine educator from the featured winery will present and educate guests about the latest wines in their portfolio. Featured wineries include: Tamber Bey Vineyards (May 18), Bonny Doon Vineyards (June 22) and Ehlers Estate (July 20). The tasting fee ranges from $25 to $35 per person, based upon the vintner. Guests can choose to enhance their tasting experience with flights of hand-selected cheeses and chocolates for an additional fee. Held every Friday from 4 - 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 3 - 6 p.m. during scheduled series dates.

In addition, Navio will host signature “Vintner Dinners” each month that include a four-course menu created by Navio Executive Chef Xavier Salomon and paired wines from the month's featured vintner. A vintner's representative will host the evening and discuss each of the wines and the pairings. $99 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. One Miramontes Point Road, (650) 712-7000, www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Steven Holt, (415) 312-8264, steven.holt@ritzcarlton.com.

- CULINARY NEWS -

Outside at Sam's

Just in time for summer, Sam's Chowder House has updated its outdoor oceanfront dining areas. Outdoor seating is now more readily available on the northern outdoor patio, where guests can settle into the new Adirondack chairs and cozy up to the fire pit with a cocktail. New heat lamps have also been added to keep guests warm on those cooler nights. These updates will come in handy Sunday evenings, when Sam's Chowder House will be adding live music outside on the South Beach Bar. 4210 North Cabrillo Highway, (650) 712-0371, www.samschowderhouse.com.

Dancing at Crab Landing

Enjoy dinner or grab a drink in Crab Landing's recently remodeled patio and lounge and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Harbor. Live music is performed every weekend, and there's even salsa dancing once a month. For a schedule of upcoming live music and events, visit www.crablanding.com. 260 Capistrano Road, (650) 712-1288.

Drink Up the Sun

For a great cup of coffee, fresh pastries and cheerful service, stop by the newly opened Here Comes the Sun Café, a brightly yellow painted cottage on Highway 1. This is the perfect spot to meet up with friends or relax with a good book. Try a cappuccino, latte or any of the other delicious items found on the menu. It's kid friendly too! 8455 Cabrillo Highway, Montara, (650) 455-4308.

ARK Indian Cuisine

Fans of Fog City Indian Restaurant in nearby Montara can now experience their favorite Indian dishes in Half Moon Bay at the newly opened ARK Grill. The menu features North Indian appetizers such as samosas and baked Indian breads, as well as meat, seafood, vegetarian curry and tandoori plates. 724 Main Street, (650) 560-8152, www.arkgrill.com.

Caffe Lucca Reopens

This Italian Caffe that used to be found on Cabrillo Highway has reopened under new ownership and can now be found… right next door! Come in for an early morning coffee, cappuccino or Italian imported espresso, or stop by during lunch for a savory Italian panini. Every other Friday night, Caffe Lucca hosts an open mike night from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. where guests can gather for wine, beer and local music. 8455 Cabrillo Highway, Montara, (650) 728-5229.

On Tap

Give two paws up for Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, who has been named the best dog-friendly restaurant and the second-best dog-friendly bar in the Bay Area by the Bay Woof's “2012 Beast of the Bay Competition!” To celebrate these high honors, they have made special, homemade “Maverick Bones” for its K-9 customers, created from the spent grains from the Brewing Company's small batch, artisanal beers. The first bag of the instantly popular Maverick Bones is complimentary, and additional bags are available for purchase for only $1.75 each.

In addition, Half Moon Bay Brewing Company will be hosting great events all summer that are fun for the whole family:

• Salmon Your Way– Starting on May 10, every Wednesday and Thursday throughout salmon season, guests will be able to order salmon fresh off the boat prepared any way they like.
• A Night in Brazil– Guests will feel like they are on a Brazilian vacation on June 15 when Half Moon Bay Brewing Company's Chef Gaston Alfaro welcomes Chef Marx Passos, former chef to the 1994 World Cup winning Brazilian Soccer Team, into his kitchen to create an entirely Brazilian themed menu. Liza Silva and Voz de Brasil will also provide live traditional Brazilian music in the bar.
• 12th Annual Summer Solstice Beer Release Party– celebrate the release of Half Moon Bay Brewing Company's summer solstice beer, the “2012 Devil's Slide Summer Ale,” on Wednesday, June 20, with free food and beer tasting.
390 Capistrano Road, (650) 728-2739, www.hmbbrewingco.com; Media Contact: Diana Gil-Osorio, (415) 728-5803, Diana@ellipsespr.com.

It's Exciting at It's Italia

Stop by It's Italia this summer for some great events. From classic movies to local farm nights and new faces, It's Italia is sure to be a hot spot for families and individuals this season.

• Farm Nights – The first Wednesday of every month June – August will feature local farmer celebrities and their families to share their traditional family recipes and produce secrets. The featured farmer each month will bring along prepared treats for guests to taste, from soup to pasta.
• Cinema at It's Italia – Join It's Italia at sundown every Sunday night June – August for dinner and a movie. Guests can get comfortable on the Mediterranean-style courtyard as they warm up by the fireplace or under a blanket with a glass of wine and a classic movie.
• It's Chef Carlos Olvera - It's Italia welcomes Chef Carlos Olvera to its kitchen. Chef Olvera has a passion for local cuisine and frequently visits local farms to integrate local produce into his meals. Guests can look forward to experiencing exciting new dishes, including gluten-free and vegan options, slow cooked meat dishes and some delicious new desserts.
401 Main Street, (650) 726-4444, www.itsitaliarestaurant.com. Media Contact: Betsy del Fierro, betsy@itsitaliarestaurant.com.

- ACCOMMODATIONS -

Play Time for Kids

While parents are off exploring, kids can enjoy a half or full day of fun activities at The Ritz Kids Program such as swimming, board games, basketball, arts and crafts projects, tennis, nature exploration and much more. This program is for children ages five to 12. Full day: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., includes lunch and snacks, $125 per child. Half day: 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m., includes snacks, $75 per child. Days can be extended for $15 an hour, per child. One Miramontes Point Road, (650) 712-7000, www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Steven Holt, (415) 312-8264, steven.holt@ritzcarlton.com.

Paddle the Bay

Now at the Beach House Hotel, guests can book the “Paddle the Bay” package and partake in the latest watersport craze, paddleboarding. The package includes two-hour sessions for two people, all the necessary equipment for paddleboarding from Half Moon Bay Kayak Co., and a double occupancy room for one night. Thisis perfect package for those seeking a getaway and a great workout while still having fun. Rates start at $285 plus tax. 4100 Cabrillo Highway North, (650) 712-0220, www.beach-house.com. Media Contact: Marje Bennetts, (310) 574-7870, marje@mbennettspr.com.

Fido Sleeps Free!

Dog-lovers and their furry friends will feel right at home at the Half Moon Bay Lodge, a Spanish-style hotel with 80 comfortable guestrooms, each one complete with a deck or terrace overlooking the acclaimed Arnold Palmer designed Half Moon Bay Golf Links. From May through August, guests who reserve a pet-friendly room Sunday through Thursday will have the $25 per night pet fee waived by the hotel. Bring Fido along for a relaxing getaway at no extra cost. 2400 S. Cabrillo Highway, (650) 726-9000, www.halfmoonbaylodge.com. Media Contact: Kurt Picillo, kpicillo@halfmoonbaylodge.com.

Pampered Pooches

Get away for a few days and bring your furry friend along. Now at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, dogs will receive special amenities, services, and a menu designed just for them while staying in one of the resort's luxurious pet-friendly guesthouses along the beautiful Coastal Trail. Upon check-in, pets receive bowls for food and water, a plush bed, chew toy, and an in-room dining pet menu including canine casseroles and bow wow meatballs. A one-time cleaning fee of $125 is charged for each guesthouse with a pet. $10 of every cleaning fee is donated to the Peninsula Humane Society. One Miramontes Point Road, (650) 712-7000, www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Steven Holt, (415) 312-8264, steven.holt@ritzcarlton.com

- GOLF -

US Open Golf Package

Golf enthusiasts can now book the “US Open Golf Package” and receive Coastal View accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay along with daily round-trip sedan service for two people to/from the Olympic Club in San Francisco where the 2012 US Open is being held, plus unlimited golf after 5 p.m. at the Arnold Palmer acclaimed Half Moon Bay Golf Links. Package is available June 11-17, 2012. Rates are $1,420 per night. US Open Championship tickets sold separately. One Miramontes Point Road, (650) 712-7000, www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Steven Holt, (415) 312-8264, steven.holt@ritzcarlton.com.

- SPA -

Summer Spa Specials

Four new spa treatments are now available at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. From foot treatments to those designed specifically for mom and dad, a different package is highlighted for each month of the summer:

• Mother's Day, the Ritz-Carlton Way(May) – Treat mom to a pomegranate paradise body polish and massage combination. During this treatment, moms will receive a full body exfoliation from pomegranate sugar scrub, leaving her skin feeling invigorated and smooth as silk, before receiving a full body massage.
• Dads and Grads(June) – Fathers and graduates can celebrate during the month of June by relaxing with a deep tissue detox massage and stretch, a treatment that is sure to rid the body of toxins trapped inside the muscles, alleviating hardworking dads and grads of aches and pains from all their hard work.
• Glamour and Glitz by the Spa at the Ritz(July) – The ultimate foot indulgence, The Ritz-Carlton Reflex Pedicure, is 20 minutes of a relaxing reflex massage designed to relieve and release tight and overworked muscles. This full service pedicure will leave feet and toes looking and feeling their absolute best.
• The Ritz-Carlton Spa's Most Decadent Indulgence(August) – This ultimate spa experience lets guests relax as a massage therapist and esthetician work together to provide two hours of choreographed relaxation massage and luxury facial, an indulgence that will spoil even the richest of royalty.
Visit website for rates. One Miramontes Point Road, (650) 712-7000. Media Contact: Steven Holt, (415) 312-8264, steven.holt@ritzcarlton.com.

- SHOPPING -

Savvy Shoppers

Savvy Skirts, Half Moon Bay's premiere gift service for women, has moved to new spot on Main Street. Savvy Skirts proudly displays hats, scarves, jewelry and more created by local female designers. Visit them a fun and fabulous new outfit or a special gift. 300 Main Street, Suite 2, (650) 560-0142, www.savvyskirts.com.

Pink & Harmony

Visit this chic boutique newly opened in Half Moon Bay for on-trend and affordable fashion. Enjoy a boutique shopping experience featuring chic, one-of-a-kind pieces without the high boutique prices. 270 Capistrano Road, Suite 8, (650) 561-4844, www.pinkandharmony.com.

Goodson Goods

Fans of Thomas Goodson handmade silver jewelry and Jane Lewis photography can now purchase these breathtaking products at the Land & Sea Farmers Market held at Harbor Village every Sunday. www.goodsonsilver.com.

Oddyssea

Opening in June, Oddyssea is a unique shop featuring a combination of art, technology, science and nature. This is a learning experience that encourages discovery through exploration and creation. Inquisitive minds will love discovering what interactive products that can be found here. Featuring two zones, customers can spend their time wandering between the exploration zone and creation zone, finding something that will delight the curious side of everyone. 617 Main Street, (650) 440-4555, www.oddyssea.com.

- SERVICES -

Aqua Beauty

The newest beauty salon in Half Moon Bay has opened, where style savvy women can get the most up-to-date services for a fantastic new style. Aqua Beauty Lounge offers upscale and fashionable haircuts, color, treatment and styling for men, women and children. 270 Capistrano Road, Suite 12; (888) 721-2782, www.aquabeautylounge.com.

For information on how to make the most of your stay in Half Moon Bay, visit www.visithalfmoonbay.org