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January - April 2009

WHAT'S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY
WHAT'S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY

Half Moon Bay, California, a vibrant coastal town located approximately 40 minutes south of San Francisco, is the perfect place for a winter getaway. While most of the country is currently in a deep winter slumber, Half Moon Bay is alive and in full swing with current average daytime temperatures a comfortable 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Below is a sample of fun winter and early spring options for families, couples, or solo travelers to explore during a relaxing escape along the coastside. Please also visit www.visithalfmoonbay.org for everything visitors need to plan their trip - from information on luxury coastal resorts and cozy inns, to renowned restaurants, farm visits, wine tasting, fishing, whale watching, surfing and much more.

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

TIS THE SEASON FOR...

Surfing
Half Moon Bay is home to the world-famous surfing spot Mavericks, located one-half mile off the coast by Pillar Point Harbor. Mavericks is considered to be one of the most challenging surfing areas in the world, attracting the most elite surfers to brave the waves. The Mavericks Surf Contest, which can take place anytime between January 1 through March 31 (depending upon wave patterns), attracts 24 of the world's greatest big-wave surfers who come to Half Moon Bay on just 24 hours notice vie for the highly sought-after 2009 Mavericks Surf Contest® title and a large cash prize. For San Francisco Bay Area residents, the contest will be broadcast live at AT+T Park in San Francisco. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20, or $25 at the door. Fans may also watch the contest online at www.fuel.tv/maverickssurf.com. For more information, call Mavericks Surf Ventures, (415) 462-6200 or visit www.maverickssurf.com. Media Contact: Keir Beadling, jmangiacapre@snlc.net.

Whale Watching
The annual migration of the gray whale is currently underway, and Half Moon Bay is the perfect spot for witnessing the journey of these spectacular creatures. Beginning in early December through the end of March, approximately 15,000 gray whales swim south from the icy waters of the Artic to mate and nurse their young in the warm, shallow lagoons along Magdalena Bay in Baja, California. The full round-trip migration from the Bering Sea to the Baja calving lagoons is approximately 10,000 miles, the longest known migration for any mammal. Gray whales move at a steady speed of about five miles per hour, and most can be spotted in an area that extends from the kelp beds (about 3/4 miles from the shoreline) out to the horizon. For those who like to plan ahead, March through early April is a great time to spot humpback whales as they begin moving closer to shore.

Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab season kicked off in late fall and continues though the end of June. These large, hard-shell crabs with a sweet flavor and flaky texture are found along the northwest coast from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska to Northern California. Half Moon Bay has one of the largest concentrations of this seafood delicacy, with more than 50 commercial boats fishing off of the town's walkable Pillar Point Harbor. For those craving to eat their catch right away, head to nearby restaurant Princeton Seafood where they will cook, crack and clean the just-caught Dungeness crabs (eat in or have them packed on ice to go). Princeton Seafood, #9 Johnson Pier, (650) 726-2722.

Several local companies offer crabbing and deep-sea fishing (approximately six hours, $55-$80 per person depending upon the type of excursion) and whale-watching excursions (approximately $30- $40 for adults and $25 for children for a three-hour trip):

   •Huck Finn Sportfishing, (650) 726-7133, www.huckfinnsportfishing.com
   •Huli Cat Sportfishing, (650) 726-2926 www.hulicat.com
   •Riptide Sportfishing, (888) 747-8433, www.riptide.net


- EVENTS -

Harbor Nights
On March 5 from 4 -7 p.m., car aficionados far and wide will descend upon Pillar Point Harbor for Harbor Nights, a coastal car and motorcycle show. Owners of classic cars, trucks, fancy motorcycles and hot rods will have the opportunity to show off their pride and joy while providing a glimpse of early automotive and motorcycle technology. Many of the machines have taken years to create or restore as the owners search for just the right parts. Families will enjoy the cruise down memory lane as they show their kids the vintage Mustang or hot muscle car just like they drove (or wished they did!). Registered machines will be entered into a drawing for some fantastic prizes. The event is free and open to both exhibitors and spectators. Pillar Point Harbor, Johnson Pier, Princeton-By-The-Sea. For more information and/or to register as a participant, contact Mary Bothmam, (650) 726-2722, mary@coastalcarshow.com.

40th Annual Farm Day
Agriculture is Half Moon Bay's premier industry, and each year residents gather to celebrate the hardworking farmers that contribute so much bounty to the area at Farm Day, started by coastside farmer, the late Mel Mello. On March 27 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. local farm families will come together to create a delicious lunch utilizing local produce. Among the many awards, a coastside farmer will be chosen as "Farmer of the Year." IDES Hall, 735 Main Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact the Half Moon Bay Chamber, (650) 726-8380. Tickets are $25 in advance, or $30 at the door. Media Contact: Charise McHugh, (650) 727-8380, charise@hmbchamber.com.

Pacific Coast Dream Machines Show
On April 26 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., a massive, awe-inspiring showcase of more than 2,000 motorized mechanical marvels from throughout the 20th and 21st centuries will descend upon Half Moon Bay. Headline attractions scheduled to appear include: the world's most powerful air raid siren to open the festivities; thrilling, high-flying freestyle Motocross exhibitions by HiRise FMX; military aviation wonders "Heavenly Body," a historic B-25 Bomber from World War II; P-51 Mustangs; Hawker Seafury British Fighter; AAA Greenlight Initiative "Green Machines," a display of clean technology/alternative fuel vehicles; and much more. Rounding out the activities will be kid's amusements, food, and live music headlined by Americana legend and the "King of Dieselbilly" Bill Kirchen. The show benefits the Coastside Adult Day Health Center. For more information, call (650) 726-2328 or visit www.miramarevents.com. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 ages 11-17 and free for kids age 10 and under. Half Moon Bay Airport, 9850 N. Cabrillo Highway (located on Hwy. 1). Media Contact: Tim Beeman, (650) 726-3491, tim@miramarevents.com.


- TOURS -

Say Cheese
Harley Farms, home to award-winning goat cheese, is starting up their farm tours in February where visitors can receive a "behind the scenes" look at the inner workings of this nine-acre goat dairy farm. The two-hour tour includes meeting the friendly goats, milking a goat, learning how to make goat cheese and a cheese tasting upstairs in a refurbished hayloft. Spring is the perfect time to visit, as it's kidding season on the farm, and visitors might even have the privilege of watching the birth of a baby goat. The farm is home to 220 American Alpine goats that produce more than 500 kids each spring. Tours are held on Saturdays and Sundays and are available by reservation only. Tours are $20 per adult; $10 for children ages 6-12; and free for kids ages five and under. 205 North Street, Pescadero. To book a tour, contact (650) 879-0480. For more information, visit www.harleyfarms.com.

Harley Farms is also hosting a few special events:

   •March 20 - Harley Farms will host a special wine and cheese event in partnership with Jeff Emery of Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyards. The afternoon will feature an educational wine and cheese tasting (complete with freshly baked ciabatta). Held from 2 - 4 p.m. and 5:30 - 8 p.m.; $85 per person.

   •April 30 - May 3 - This special hands-on event offers an in-depth tour of the farm where participants will milk the goats and learn about traditional cheese making, followed by a decadent five-course meal in the farm's rustically charming hayloft. The evening menu will be sourced locally and will be sure to include Harley Farms' incredible goat cheese. Limited to 20 guests; held from 4 - 8 p.m.; $185 per person.

Outdoor Adventure
There's no better (or more fun!) way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Coast than on a bicycle. Coastal Elegance Tours is offering a brand new, two day/three night guided eco-culture cycling tour that includes rides through the historic town of Pescadero, the dramatic redwoods and along the gorgeous Pacific beaches. Highlights include spectacular views along the scenic Pacific bluffs, and visits to a historic light house, Pillar Point Harbor and Montara Mountain. Of course, there will be many unique wildlife sighting along the ride. Special lodging packages are available. For more information and reservations, call Coastal Elegance Tours (650) 712-8456 or visit www.coastalelegancetours.com.


- HOTELS -

A Luxurious Deal
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is featuring the "Resort Reconnect Package" that includes overnight accommodations, a full breakfast for two, and a $100 credit that can be applied to spa treatments, tennis lessons or other amenities. Rates start at $369 per night, excluding tax and based upon availability; valid through April 30. One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations, call (650) 712-7040 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Jennifer Chiesa, (650) 712-7040, Jennifer.Chiesa@ritzcarlton.com.

Romance "Inn" Style
For the perfect getaway, head to the Half Moon Bay Inn for the “Romantic Escape Package” that includes a one night stay, chocolate truffles, fresh flowers in the room and a bottle of champagne or wine. What could be more romantic? Rates start at $130, excluding tax and based upon availability; valid through February 28, 2009. 410 Main Street. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-1177, www.halfmoonbayinn.com.

European Elegance
Mill Rose Inn, a romantic European-style inn, is offering a special that includes two nights for the price of one throughout the month of January. Styled with antiques, bay windows, fireplaces, original watercolor artworks and fresh flowers, guests can relax in the cozy library, outside in the English country garden, or in the Jacuzzi spa. A complimentary gourmet breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese and evening pastries and drinks are served daily. 615 Mill Street, (650) 726-8750, www.millroseinn.com.


- CULINARY AND WINE NEWS -

Seafood Extravaganza
Opened in November 2008, Crab Landing Seafood & Steakhouse boasts a spectacular setting and some of the Bay Area's freshest seafood and delicious steaks. Set in a two-story glass hexagon-shaped building that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Pillar Point Harbor, the elaborate décor features a large saltwater aquarium, a waterfall, a leviathan two-story mural, a sushi bar, upstairs and downstairs bars, an outdoor patio, a 1200-bottle wine cellar and seating for 250 guests. The extensive menu offers seven types of oysters, a large variety of seafood and soups, an ample selection of steaks and a sushi/sashimi menu. A special highlight of the menu is the Singapore Chili Crab, a recipe brought over from the owner's native land. 260 Capistrano Road, Princeton-By-The-Sea, (650) 712-1288, www.crablanding.com. Media Contact: Lea Krutel, (650) 712-1288, info@crablanding.com.

Mangia!
This February, It's Italia will relocate to Main Street in a beautifully renovated space located on the first floor of the Half Moon Bay Inn. The new location will feature an Italian/French farmhouse ambiance complete with a large bar and a gorgeous Tuscan-style patio with four fireplaces. Menu items will include favorites such as house-baked artisan pizzas, pastas, creative salads highlighting ingredients from local farms, grilled steaks, seafood, house-made desserts and 100+ bottle wine list. 401 Main Street. For more information, call (650) 726-4444. www.itsitaliapizzeria.com.

The Perfect Pairing
Offering one of the largest wine collections in the area, Half Moon Bay Wine and Cheese is currently hosting "After Hours" on Thursdays from 5 - 10 p.m. This is a great time to sample and learn about local wines and cheeses from the experts. If you find a wine that you love, simply purchase the bottle and enjoy it on the spot for just $6 in additional to the retail price. 604 Main Street, La Piazza Shopping Center, (650) 726-1520 www.hmbwineandcheese.com.

EnoVersity
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is currently offering winter wine classes. Held in ENO, the resort's wine tasting room, this is the perfect setting to explore and discover delicious wines with the experts in the field. Upcoming classes include: 100% estate grown Cabernet from Kathryn Kennedy Wines (January 24); Bordeaux-style estate wines from Darioush Winery (Feb. 7); and 100% single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Frias Family Vineyards (Feb. 21). One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations, call (650) 712-7040 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com. Media Contact: Jennifer Chiesa, (650) 712-7696, Jennifer.Chiesa@ritzcarlton.com.

A Rockin' Good Time
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, the perfect spot for handcrafted beers, a great seaside view and live music, is hosting "Celtic Rock" on March 17. In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, this festive weekend will feature some of the world's best Celtic rock music. There will also be a special Irish-inspired menu and beer specials. 390 Capistrano Road, Princeton-by-the-Sea. For more information, call (650) 728-BREW or visit www.hmbbrewingco.com. Media Contact: Amy Kocot, (415) 380-8390, amy@spinpr.com.

Seaside Tunes
The wildly popular coastside seafood restaurant, Sam's Chowder House, is also now a great spot to hear live music - from jazz and blues to rock and steel drums by some of the Bay Area's best musicians every Friday and Saturday night from 6 - 9 p.m. Directly overlooking the ocean adjacent to Pillar Point Harbor, every seat in the restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunsets, making this the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and dinner with live jazz. Be sure to try the now-famous lobster roll, voted one of America's Top Five Sandwiches on NBC's Today Show. 4210 North Cabrillo Highway (Highway One), (650) 712-0245, www.samschowderhouse.com. Media Contact: Julie Shenkman, (650) 726-1005, julie@julieshenkman.com.

Delizioso!
Pasta Moon, highly acclaimed for delicious Italian cuisine prepared with only the freshest local ingredients, is hosting several special dinners not to be missed. 315 Main Street, (650) 726-5125, www.pastamoon.com.

   •January 23 - - Join Pasta Moon for a four-course tasting menu paired with some of the most legendary Brunellos from Tenute Silvio Nardi Winery. Select menu items include lobster crab ravioli, Oysters Rockefeller, filet mignon, and much more. Seatings are at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.; $85 per person.
   •February 14 - Pasta Moon will offer a four-course prix-fixe menu featuring items such as oysters, seafood, filet mignon and decadent desserts sure to make Valentine's Day memorable.


- SPA -

Relax & Rejuvenate
Abundance Day Spa extends a warm welcome to visitors by offering a complimentary cooling rosemary foot wrap or soothing hand treatment with each facial booked now through April. Facial prices begin at $85 and guests must mention the code "HMB Visitor" when booking treatments. 432 Kelly Avenue. For more information and to schedule a treatment, call (650) 560-9600, www.abundanceskincare.com


- SHOPPING -

Treasure Trove
Looking for the perfect gift or a little something special for yourself? Look no further than Abode, a boutique filled with unique home furnishings, decorative items, jewelry, baby items, soaps, and much more. Many of Abode's furniture pieces can be custom-sized and upholstered to create a one-of-a-kind item. 330 Main Street, (650) 726-6060. abodehalfmoonbay.com.


- ARTS & PERFORMANCE-

Hot Off The Press
Moon News Bookstore, an independent operation that specializes in hard-to-"find domestic and international publications, is hosting "Writers Open Mike" on January 22 at 7:30 p.m. All writers are encouraged to gather and share with best creative stories. On February 3 at 7 p.m., there will be a book discussion on Richard Louv's book "Last Child In The Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder." In this profound book, Louv argues for a return to awareness of and appreciation for the natural world. 315 Main Street, (650) 726-8610, www.moonnewsbookstore.com.

On Stage
The Coastal Repertory Theatre presents "The Miracle Worker," February 6 - 28, a Tony Award wining play that explores the true story of Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller and how their friendship changed the very world they lived in. Sam Shepherd's "True West," on stage March 27 - April 18, tells the story of two brothers whose lives collide in a role reversal with lasting reverberations. 1167 Main Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact (650) 569-3266, www.coastalrep.com.

Laugh-In
Catch a local show every second Saturday of the month performed by Blue Blanket Improv, a dedicated group of improvisational actors and comedians who perform throughout the Bay Area. Many of the shows in Half Moon Bay are held at Enso Yoga Studio, 131 Kelly Avenue, (650) 726-1409. For a listing of upcoming shows, contact (650) 560-0108 or visit www.BlueBlanketImprov.com.

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

WHAT’S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY