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May - August 2007

WHAT’S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY
WHAT’S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY


Half Moon Bay is full of fun activities for the summer season – from horseback riding on the beach and hiking coastal trails to sipping California wines and dining on the area’s best organic produce and wild ocean catches. It’s all here in Half Moon Bay, a vibrant coastal town located approximately 35 minutes south of San Francisco. Situated between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this charming seaside community boasts the best of Northern California all in one conveniently located place.

Below is a summary of what’s new in Half Moon Bay. Please also visit www.visithalfmoonbay.org for everything visitors need to plan their trip, from information on cozy B&Bs and luxury coastal resorts to renowned restaurants, farm visits, wine tasting, fishing, whale watching, and much more.

Special Note: All locations are in Half Moon Bay unless otherwise noted.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Legend of the Motorcycle™: International Concours d’Elegance
Saturday, May 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
More than 300 of the finest examples of vintage motorcycles from around the world will be on display at the second annual Legend of the Motorcycle: International Concours d’Elegance™, the world’s premier concours d’elegance exclusively for motorcycles. The only event of its kind, Legend of the Motorcycle encompasses over a century of design, style and ingenuity and has been established to create a forum for motorcycles on a level only previously associated with motorcars. In addition to the concours and the resulting afternoon awards ceremony, the event features: a kick-off reception in Los Angeles and ride to Half Moon Bay; a display of Isle of Man bikes, commemorating the 100 years that the legendary Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races have been in existence; a Bonhams & Butterfields auction of rare and historic motorcycles; a display of the featured marques, Excelsior, Henderson and Vincent, including the largest gathering of Black Lightnings ever known; and an auction of motorcycles, motorcycle products and memorabilia for charity. Sunday morning, May 6, concludes the affair with the Tour of Legends™, a 44-mile scenic motorcycle ride for concours entrants and VIPs, following a loop down along the Pacific Ocean and back atop the adjacent Santa Cruz mountains, ending with an ocean-side brunch. Tickets are $50 in advance ($65 on Concours day). One Miramontes Point Road. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.legendofthemotorcycle.com. Media Contact: Brooke Roner, Legend of the Motorcycle, (415) 345-0928, brooke@lotm.com.

Rock the Block - Coastside Block Party
Friday, May 18, 6 - 10 p.m.
Half Moon Bay will get their groove on at the third annual “Rock the Block - Coastside Block Party.” Delicious cuisine, live music and entertainment will fill the streets. Activities include horse drawn carriage rides, face painting, t-shirt decorating, a rock climbing wall, pony rides, a table tennis competition, and much more. Entrance to the event is free and open to the public. Proceeds will benefit the improvement of the Hwy 1 Medians. Downtown Main Street. For more information, 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@halfmoonbaychamber.org.

Holy Ghost Festival
Sunday, May 19
This Portuguese festival, also known as “Chamarita,” features a colorful parade and marching bands, a carnival, equestrian groups, a barbeque, and more. This holiday of thanksgiving, dating back to Queen Isabel’s reign of Portugal, takes its name from a complex Portuguese dance that is part of the celebration. Free to the public. IDES Grounds in Half Moon Bay. For more information, call (650) 726-2729.

Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
July 4, Parade - 12 p.m.; Fireworks 9 p.m.
Kicking off the festivities, a traditional parade complete with floats, music, antique cars, and even horses and ponies, marches down Main Street in Half Moon Bay, followed by fireworks at Pillar Point Harbor later that evening. For more information, 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@halfmoonbaychamber.org.

Tour des Fleurs
Saturday, July 14, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Half Moon Bay’s abundant bounty of fruits and vegetables is in full bloom during the summer, and there’s no better way to experience it than at the “16th Annual Tour des Fleur,” which offers the general 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. Flower gardens, organic field greens, California native plants, a working dairy farm, acres of succulent berries, coastal wineries and an abundance of potted plants await visitors. Tour packages are $20 and consist of one-hour guided tours at three different nurseries. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact the Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce and Visitors’ Bureau at (650) 726-8380 or visit www.hmbchamber.com. Media Contact: Charise McHugh, (650) 726-8380, charise@halfmoonbaychamber.org.

LOCAL RICHES:

Salmon Season
Salmon season is in full swing in Half Moon Bay, which is reputed to be home to the best quality and largest quantity of king salmon in the country, outside of Alaska. Lucky residents and visitors to Half Moon Bay’s Pillar Point Harbor can purchase freshly caught fish direct from the local fisherman. Insider Tip: Pillar Point Harbor has a public hotline to call ahead and find out the catch of the day: (650) 726-8724.

For those who prefer to catch their own fish, several companies offer deep sea fishing excursions: Huck Finn Sportfishing, (650) 726-7133, www.huckfinnsportfishing.com; Huli Cat Sportfishing, (650) 726-2926 www.hulicat.com; Riptide Sportfishing, owned and operated by Captain Smitty, (888) 747-8433, www.riptide.net; and Half Moon Bay Sportfishing & Tackle, (650) 726-2913.

Farm Fresh
May 5th kicks off the Coastside Market featuring an abundance of locally grown vegetables, fruits, organic products, gourmet cheese, herbs and seafood available for purchase. Local artisans, dancers, and musicians appear at the market each week, as well as a number of community groups. The market is held through November on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Shoreline Station, 225 Cabrillo Highway. For more information, contact Erin Tormey (650) 726-4802, farmersmarket@coastside.net.

Horticulture Heaven
Yerba Buena Nursery, California's oldest retail native plant nursery, is home to more than 600 types of California native plants. This spectacular Santa Cruz Mountain farm setting includes a 1905 Farmhouse, historic barn, and extensive demonstration gardens. Several special events and lectures are being held in the Yerba Buena Nursery Farmhouse including “Designing Your Garden with Native Plants" on May 19 and a Father’s Day tea on June 16. The farm is open to visitors Tuesday - Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 19500 Skyline Blvd., Woodside. For more information and reservations, contact (650) 851-1668 or visit www.yerbabuenanursery.com. Media Contact: Jennifer Leech (650) 851-1668, jennifermleech@yahoo.com.

LODGING NEWS:

New England Style
The luxuriously appointed New England-style Beach House Hotel has partnered with adjacent Sam’s Chowder House, a highly acclaimed seafood restaurant, to offer the “Seaside Escape Package” that includes a guest suite, a complimentary bottle of signature Half Moon Bay wine, a $75 gift certificate towards dinner at Sam’s Chowder House and two complimentary glasses of California Chardonnay. The package is currently available through November 10. 4100 North Cabrillo Hwy. For more information and reservations, call (650) 712-0220 or visit www.beach-house.com. Media Contact:  Marje Bennetts, (310) 574-7870, marje@mbennettspr.com.

Summertime Fun
The Spanish-style Half Moon Bay Lodge is perfect for an affordable, yet comfortable and fun Half Moon Bay getaway. The property boasts lots of extras including a pool, a whirlpool, a fitness center, sauna and a relaxing outdoor fireplace. Each room, complete with a deck or terrace overlooks the acclaimed Arnold Palmer-designed Half Moon Bay Golf Links. The ample complimentary continental breakfast, complete with make-your-own-waffles, is not to be missed. The best part is that they’re currently offering several special packages:

• “Dinner and a Movie” includes a one night stay for two, a $75 gift certificate to the Moss Beach Distillery restaurant; a complimentary in-room movie, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
• “Family Fun Picnic Package” includes a one stay, a beach blanket, sparkling cider, a selection of gourmet treats, a complimentary parking pass to Martin's Beach and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
• “Romantic Escape” includes a one night stay, champagne, gourmet chocolate, a romantic gift basket, and complimentary late checkout.
• “Stay and Play Golf Package” includes a one night stay, golfing for two at Half Moon Bay Golf Links with a choice of two 18-hole championship golf courses and complimentary golf cart usage.

Package rates start at $209 per night, excluding tax. 2400 S. Cabrillo Highway. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-9000 or visit www.halfmoonbbaylodge.com. Media Contact: Maitée Rossoukhi (805)957-0095, mrossoukhi@pacificahotels.com.

Main Street Charm
Located in a gorgeous, newly-renovated 1932 Spanish Revival building on charming Main Street, stylish Half Moon Bay Inn is offering a “Spring Special” where queen bed rooms are just $105 per night (excluding tax) for guests who stay two days or more. The “Spring Special” is valid through May 31. 400 Main Street. For more information and reservations, call (650) 560-9758 or www.halfmoonbayinn.com.

Play Time for Kids
School is almost out and it’s time for the kids to have some fun! The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay offers enriching day camps in week-long sessions each summer from June 18 through August 31, where children enjoy a hands-on learning experience in one of the six Summer Camp themes: Tennis, Scuba, Golf, Kayaking, Arts and Crafts/Adventure and Fencing. Camps are offered Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Half day and single day camps are available with 24-hour notice, and lunch and refreshments are included every day. Prices range from $400 to $500 per child; ages five to 14.

For the little ones who prefer a bit of pampering, Children’s Spa Day treats young guests to an afternoon of light refreshments, games, arts and crafts and a choice of two pampering treatments that include a mini facial, manicure or pedicure. Held on June 9 and August 18 from 1 - 4 p.m. $85 per child; ages five to 12.

One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations for both programs, call (650) 712-7667. Media Contact: Diana Gil-Osorio, (650) 712-7020, diana.gil-osorio@ritzcarlton.com.

CULINARY NEWS:

Go Inside The Kitchen
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay hosts the culinary extravaganza “Inside the Kitchen: Summer,” featuring an enticing array of culinary classes and themed weekends. Guest instructors for “Inside the Kitchen: Summer” are a veritable “who’s who” of contemporary cuisine, including: celebrity pastry chef Elizabeth Falkner, Executive Chef and owner of Citizen Cake in

San Francisco; Marcel Vigneron, the molecular gastronomist from Bravo’s second season of Top Chef; Scott Beattie, the innovative bar manager at Cyrus in Healdsburg, Calif.; James Beard Award nominee Nate Appleman, chef of A16 in San Francisco; and Ruta Kahate, author and popular instructor of Indian cuisine, among many others. The resort will donate a portion of class proceeds to Meals On Wheels of San Francisco, Inc. The thirteen-week series of 21 classes at the oceanfront resort feature small plates of each recipe, a beverage pairing, and a customized recipe booklet to take home. Courses taught by cookbook authors include their latest cookbook. June 1 through August 31st. Classes ranges from $85 to $100 per student, ages 21 and over, inclusive of tax and gratuity. One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations, call (650) 712-7040 or visit www.insidethekitchen.net.

Quirky Cameron’s
Cameron's Pub, home to the world’s only English double-decker bus/smoking lounge and very large beer can collection (more than 3,000 to be exact), is featuring "Jolly Good Time Hour" with drink specials every Monday - Friday from 3 – 6 p.m. and Karaoke every Saturday evening. From the two red double decker buses that serve as a smoking lounge (adults only) and a game room for the kids, to the handcrafted boat/dining booth made from Chinese relics, this funky British pub and inn is a true experience.1410 S. Cabrillo Highway. For more information, call (650) 726-5705 or visit www.cameronsinn.com. Media Contact: Cameron Palmer, (650) 726-5705, cameronsinn@comcast.net.

Oceanside Entertainment
The Historic Miramar Beach Restaurant is hosting a “supper club” concert series every Saturday evening from 5 - 9 p.m. where patrons can relax and listen to the tunes of the Terry Disley Trio while dining on fresh coastal cuisine. Located right on the beach, the Miramar Beach Restaurant boasts some of the best ocean views and fine dining on the Coast. Each week, Miramar house pianist Terry Disley brings a different featured performer to perform with his jazz trio. Artists include superb jazz vocalists, Latin percussion trios, swing jazz piano trios, hot club jazz guitar trios, and even violin tangos and jazz. 131 Mirada Road, Half Moon Bay. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-9053 or visit www.miramarbeachrestaurant.com.

Cetrella Jazz Series
Highly acclaimed Cetrella, known for delicious Mediterranean cuisine and an excellent wine selection, features some of Northern California’s best jazz and blues singers Thursday - Saturday evenings. 845 Main Street. For more information and a schedule of upcoming performers, call (650) 726-4090 or visit www.cetrella.com.

What’s On Tap
There’s no better place to hear live rock, jazz and blues performances while taking in the gorgeous coastal scenery than Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. Memorial Day weekend kicks off the season with the “Endless Summer Blues Celebration” featuring a great lineup of live blues music, including performances from Ron Hacker, John Nehmeth, Daniel Castro and the return of Andy Santana. Be sure to stop by during the week of June 29 when The Half Moon Bay Brewing Company turns seven years old. The week-long celebration will feature a special menu, giveaways and a great lineup of musical guests including Daniel Castro, Mama Pacho, Ron Thompson, and the California Cowboys. 390 Capistrano Avenue, Princeton-By-The-Sea. For more information, call (650) 728-BREW or visit www.hmbbrewingco.com. Media Contact: Dee Dee Taft, (415) 380-8390, deedee@spinpr.com.

Coffee Lovers Rejoice
After 12 years in Santa Cruz, Outland Java has finally brought their freshly roasted, 100% certified organic, fair trade coffee to Half Moon Bay. Factory tours are fun for the whole family and include watching beans from all over the world being turned into the freshest coffee available.187 Airport Street, Princeton-By-The-Sea. Roasting hours are from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday – Wednesday and on Fridays. For more information, call (650) 728-2300 or visit www.outlandjava.com.

A Taste of Spain
Chez Shea, an organic international eatery featuring robust, organic dishes from around the world, is hosting “Tapa the World” hour, serving select discounted Spanish-inspired small dishes and Spanish wines every Tuesday – Friday from 5-7 p.m. Some of the most popular tapas include French-themed Confit aux Champignons (portabella mushrooms on toast), Albondigas en Chipotle (Mexican meatballs) and Mediterranean-themed Gibraltar Mezza Platter (spreads such as Hummus and Tzatiky with bread). 408 Main Street. For more information, call (650) 560-9234.

TOURS:

The White House On The Hill
The historic Johnston House has been completely restored and is now featuring complimentary tours every third Saturday of the month. Led by docents in period dress, guests can explore this unusual saltbox-style home, known as “The White House of Half Moon Bay.” Built in 1855 by wealthy Half Moon Bay pioneer James Johnston, the building is now listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Tours are available from 1 – 3 p.m. by special appointment only. 110 Higgins-Purisma Road. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-0329 or visit www.johnstonhouse.org.

The Wild West
A new “town” has arrived in the form of the western event facility Long Branch Saloon & Farms. The Main Street has a huge saloon, jail with jailbirds, feed store, chapel, barbershop, and all the trappings of a town in the Old West. The farmyard includes the usual horses, sheep, pot belly pig, chickens, goat, and two alpacas and a camel. The facility hosts corporate parties, fundraisers, weddings, and any excuse to put on boots and blue jeans and eat chicken and ribs off the barbecue. This place is an unexpected jewel nestled in the hills with an array of activities available - everything from knife throwing to dancing girls to carriage rides. Seen by appointment only. 321 Verde Road. For more information and reservations, call (650) 255-3744, (650) 678-1020 or visit www.longbranchfarms.net.

Travel in Style
Stroll around town in style - in a horse drawn carriage by Carriage De Corriere. Every third Saturday of the month, carriage rides are available from the Flower Market to the Johnston House for historical tours of the home from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Historical tours of Downtown Half Moon Bay are available in a charming hay wagon every fourth Saturday of the month throughout October. The cost for each tour is $20.00 per person (children 12 and under are $10) and includes a walking tour book of Downtown Half Moon Bay’s historical sites and complimentary bottled water. Carriage De Corriere also offers catered Oceanside picnics for groups. For more information and reservations, call Shanna Gillott (650) 222-8922.

Zip Around Town
Visitors can now tour Half Moon Bay’s beautiful coastside beaches like never before - on their very own Segway. A fun and exciting way to see wildlife and the beach area, the tour covers miles of the beach areas exploring the unique essence of the coast. Guides provide riders with a short training session and the necessary information needed to safely operate the Segway. For more information and reservations, contact Ground Gliders (650) 712-0604, Bluesegway@yahoo.com.

SHOPPING:

Doggie Divas
Searching for that perfect outfit…for your dog? Then head to Doodledings’ “Small Doggie Trunk Show” on May 5 at 2 p.m. for the latest collection from doggie designer Alexandra of Valley of the Dogs. Fashions include summer daisy dresses, rocker jackets, tankinis and more. Be sure to check out the canine jewelry collection made of pearls, crystal and beautiful sterling designed exclusively for the store. There’s even a gourmet bakery that includes yappy and meow meals. 265 Main Street, Building A. For more information, call (650) 560-9355 or visit www.doodledings.com. Media contact: Maritsa Chew, (650) 560-9355, gizmo1224@sbcglobal.net.

Golf Gear
Golf aficionados flock to Half Moon Bay, which is home to some of the country’s most spectacular golf courses overlooking the Pacific Ocean. For those who want to “try before they buy,” the Golf Center of Half Moon Bay, in partnership with the Ocean View Driving Range, hosts demo day events that allow patrons to try out the latest golf equipment and receive a complimentary custom fitting. Upcoming Demo Days include Cleveland Golf on May 19 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and Taylor Made Golf on June 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 210 San Mateo Road, #110B. For more information, call (650) 726-8555 or visit www.thegolfcenterhmb.com.

ART:

Third Saturdays Art Walk
Attention art lovers – on the third Saturday of each month, the art galleries stay open until 8 p.m. to showcase their extensive collections, featuring local and international artists. Refreshments, live music, artist receptions, and artist demonstrations are a few activities visitors can enjoy while strolling among the galleries. Downtown Main Street. Media Contact: Lillie Barrows, (650) 726-4795.

PERFORMANCE:

Coastal Culture
The Coastal Repertory Theatre is featuring the play “Dancing at Lughnasa” from June 8 – 30. Winner of the Tony Award and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play, this extraordinary drama is the story of five unmarried Irish sisters in 1936 during the Festival of Lughnasa, a celebration of the pagan god of the harvest that includes much drunken revelry and dancing. “The Rocky Horror Show,” in the theaters July 27 - August 18, tells the tale of squeaky clean sweethearts Brad and Janet on an adventure they will never forget, with scandalous Frank-n-Furter, rippling Rocky and vivacious Magenta. Bursting at the seams with timeless camp and classic songs, this wacky show gets everyone dancing in the aisles 1167 Main Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact (650) 569-3266 or visit www.coastalrep.com.

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Media Contact:
Kelly Chamberlin
Chamberlin Public Relations
(415) 336-4332
kelly@chamberlinpr.com

WHAT’S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY