The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

“Coastal Glamour with Exceptional Service”

From the moment you arrive, the property feels cinematic, perched dramatically above the Pacific with sweeping bluff-top views that make you pause. The grounds are immaculate, the air is crisp, and the fire pits at sunset are quintessential Northern California luxury. (Tip: Get an ocean view or eve… more

From the moment you arrive, the property feels cinematic, perched dramatically above the Pacific with sweeping bluff-top views that make you pause. The grounds are immaculate, the air is crisp, and the fire pits at sunset are quintessential Northern California luxury. (Tip: Get an ocean view or even partial ocean view - because you cannot put a price tag on falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing). Check-in was admittedly impacted by an unexpected system outage. While this could have detracted from the experience, the front desk team handled it with professionalism and composure. They communicated clearly, remained gracious under pressure, and did everything possible to minimize inconvenience. It was a strong example of service recovery in action. During my stay, I encountered a few unexpected personal needs, and this is where the property truly distinguished itself. Guest Services Manager Kate was exceptionally understanding, responsive, and solution-oriented. Her attentiveness and discretion made a meaningful difference, and I felt genuinely cared for rather than processed. That level of individualized hospitality is what defines a luxury experience. Danny was incredibly sweet and helpful with my luggage. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, with a calming coastal palette and the kind of quiet that allows you to fully reset. Waking up to the ocean views alone is worth the visit. Overall, despite the initial technical hiccup, the service, setting, and staff professionalism more than delivered. I appreciate when a property stands behind its hospitality standards, and this one absolutely did. Looking forward to returning.

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“Beautiful coastal location”

Overall, I really enjoyed our stay. The property is absolutely gorgeous—the oceanfront location, the dramatic cliffs, and the coastal walking path are truly stunning. Our room was lovely as well, and the setting right on the water is spectacular. The service was exceptional throughout our stay. Ev… more

Overall, I really enjoyed our stay. The property is absolutely gorgeous—the oceanfront location, the dramatic cliffs, and the coastal walking path are truly stunning. Our room was lovely as well, and the setting right on the water is spectacular. The service was exceptional throughout our stay. Every staff member we interacted with was warm, attentive, and proactive. Any time I requested something—extra towels, ice, etc.—it arrived quickly, which I really appreciated. My husband also had a great experience golfing and felt the course was beautifully maintained. As for the beds, they were extremely soft. I didn’t mind them, but my husband prefers a much firmer mattress and found it uncomfortable, so that may depend on personal preference. I do have two significant complaints: 1. Dog Fees The pet fee was shockingly high. I’ve stayed at many five-star resorts, and this was by far the most expensive dog fee I’ve encountered. It’s $250 per dog plus an additional $20 per dog, per night—as a simple boarding fee. For our two dogs over three days, this totaled $640. It felt excessive and honestly almost made us reconsider our stay. Other luxury resorts charge a fraction of this. 2. Breakfast Pricing I fully expect higher prices at the Ritz-Carlton, but some charges felt unreasonable. My $38 omelet didn’t include toast (an additional $6), which wasn’t a huge deal. However, being charged $10 for a small cup of water at breakfast felt outrageous. I’ve never experienced that at any other luxury property and found it very surprising. Aside from those two issues, our stay was wonderful, and we truly had a great time. I would stay here again, but I do hope the hotel considers adjusting some of these fees

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“Beautiful hotel resort in great location but eat somewhere else”

Visited for 4 nights to attend a series of business meetings. Arrival was met with helpful and courteous greeters; check-in experience was professional, attentive and efficient. Assigned room that overlooked the ocean. Room was of a large size, and nicely adorned with comfortable, aesthetically pl… more

Visited for 4 nights to attend a series of business meetings. Arrival was met with helpful and courteous greeters; check-in experience was professional, attentive and efficient. Assigned room that overlooked the ocean. Room was of a large size, and nicely adorned with comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and functional furnishings. Large windows provided favorable views of the ocean (despite the rain); draperies could be controlled electronically but when closed blocked access to power plugs needed to power peripherals on the work desk. Everything worked as would be expected; there was a very large TV, the bed was very comfortable, climate control was responsive, wifi worked well and there were ample power outlets next to the bed that was appreciated. Bathroom was generous in size but design required opening and closing doors to access to the room, shower and WC. Water pressure from the shower was adequate but not great. Hotel premises (lobby, restaurants and meeting rooms) were Rtiz-esque - all good. Less than 5 star recommendation refers to the hotel's offerings of food at their restaurants and room service. Food was overly priced ($85 for a club sandwich plus soda + room service) - which I would not mind as much except that the food was badly prepared and flavor-less. Offerings from the restaurants and at organized venues were equally marginal - expensive mediocre food. But service was good and attentive throughout - if not a little perfunctory.

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