As the season of celebration approaches, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay unveils its 2025 festive programming, inviting guests to experience the holidays where the redwoods meet the sea. Perched atop a dramatic bluff overlooking 50 miles of the Northern California coastline, the Forbes Five-Star resort transforms into a coastal haven of twinkling lights, culinary wonder, and timeless tradition.
From crisp ocean breezes carrying the scent of Monterey pine and salt, to the warmth of Ocean Terrace fire pits and festive melodies echoing across the Ocean Lawn, the holidays in Half Moon Bay are defined by distinct moments: refined yet cozy, traditional yet distinctly Californian. Guests are invited to slow down and savor the magic of the moment with elevated seasonal dining, impactful family experiences, and the beauty of the Pacific as their backdrop.
The resort's signature venues, The Conservatory and Forbes Four-Star Navio, anchor the festive experience with thoughtfully crafted menus that celebrate both the region's bounty and the spirit of togetherness.
Navio
The season begins on November 27, 29 and 30, as Chef de Cuisine Xisco Simón presents a brunch at Navio that honors the coastal harvest. During the two-hour à la carte experience, individually plated seasonal delicacies can be ordered in any quantity, culminating in a decadent Thanksgiving-inspired dessert tower—the perfect sweet finale to a memorable holiday celebration.
Come December, guests can begin their holiday mornings with Festive Brunch at $255 per guest, offered on December 20, 21, 25, 27, 28. The two-hour coastal experience features à la carte seasonal dishes and signature cocktails, all served against sweeping ocean views. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Navio presents a refined seven-course Festive Tasting Dinner at $275 per guest, where artful presentations and sustainably sourced ingredients tell the story of the season through food.
As the year draws to close, an eight-course New Year's Eve Tasting Dinner at $395 per guest marks the transition to 2026 with culinary artistry and a midnight toast, with an optional $205 Champagne pairing to elevate the celebration. The new year continues with serene New Year's Brunches on January 1, 3 and 4 at $255 per guest, where visitors can start 2026 with ocean views, champagne, and the rhythmic soundtrack of crashing waves.
The Conservatory
On November 27, The Conservatory offers an unforgettable Thanksgiving Dinner at $98 per guest, where panoramic ocean views and vibrant autumn décor set the stage. Guests savor Roasted Mary's Organic Turkey, perfectly complemented by Brussels sprouts and Yukon Gold potato, while uniquely crafted fall cocktails capture the true spirit of the holiday.
On Saturdays and Sundays from December 6 through January 4, The Conservatory revives a cherished tradition with Festive Afternoon Tea at $125 per guest (or $150 with Billecart-Salmon Champagne). This coastal interpretation features Dammann Frères teas, holiday confections, and panoramic Pacific views.
Beyond the table, the resort comes alive with seasonal experiences designed to spark wonder across generations. Hidden within The Conservatory Library, The Macallan Lounge emerges as an intimate seasonal pop-up from October 29 through January 2. This walk-in-only enclave invites guests on a guided exploration of rare Scotch whiskies paired with seasonal bites and fireside storytelling, available nightly from 5 to 11 p.m.
Starting December 6, Dickens-era carolers stroll the property on select afternoons, their voices carrying from the Porte-Cochère to the Ocean Lawn, weaving music through the salty air. Families gather for the annual extravagant Gingerbread Workshop on December 20 and 21, where Executive Pastry Chef Joanna Kaskiw leads guests in decorating hand-crafted gingerbread houses while hot chocolate warms their hands and the Pacific stretches before them. The workshop is priced at $350 per table for up to four guests.
On Christmas Eve, Mrs. Claus tucks into a cozy corner of the resort to enchant young visitors with tales of magic and holiday cheer. And for those seeking quieter moments of connection, the Family Game Room offers classic board games, video game consoles, and screenings of beloved holiday films.
For guests seeking to extend the magic into their accommodations, the resort offers bespoke in-room enhancements that transform any stay into a private holiday sanctuary. From the soft glow of a personalized Christmas tree to the warming aroma of mulled wine, thoughtfully curated touches—including Yule Log Cake, eggnog, festive floral arrangements, and celebratory New Year's Eve offerings—allow guests to create their own intimate holiday haven.
As the season of celebration approaches, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay stands ready to welcome guests into a world where holiday tradition meets coastal wonder, where every detail is considered, and where the magic of the moment is savored against one of California's most breathtaking backdrops.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is located at 1 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019. For reservations or more information, please call 800-241-3333 or visit ritzcarlton.com/HMB .
