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May - August 2008

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


While the rest of the country is in 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. 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 3, 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. 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 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 concludes with the Tour of Legends™, a 44-mile scenic motorcycle ride for concourse entrants and VIPs, following a loop down along the Pacific Ocean and back atop the adjacent Santa Cruz mountains, ending with an Oceanside brunch. Tickets are $65. One Miramontes Point Road. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.legendofthemotorcycle.com. Media Contact: Brooke Roner, (415) 345-0928, brooke@lotm.com.

Rock the Block - Coastside Block Party
Friday, May 16, 6:30 - 10 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. 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 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.rocktheblockhmb.com. Media Contact: Charise McHugh,
(650) 726-8380, charise@hmbchamber.com.

Holy Ghost Festival
Friday – Sunday, May 9-11
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 recall that 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. For more information, call (650) 726-2729.

Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Friday, July 4, Parade, 12 p.m.; Fireworks, Sundown
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 a town picnic hosted by the American Legion, and fireworks at sunset on the beach below Sam’s Chowder House. 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@hmbchamber.com.

Tour des Fleurs
Saturday, July 12, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Half Moon Bay’s abundant 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 “17th 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 & Visitors’ Bureau, (650) 726-8380 or visit www.halfmoonbaychamber.org. Media Contact: Charise McHugh, (650) 726-8380, charise@hmbchamber.com.

Artisan Food Festival
Saturday, July 19, 11 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Half Moon Bay’s wide variety of regional artisans will provide samples of gourmet chocolates, spices, salts, olive oils, cheeses, and much more. Master Baker Thomas Grauke of Moonside Bakery will demonstrate how to make Napoleons and discuss the history of the French cream-filled pastry. This event is free to the public and is hosted by Toque Blanche, Half Moon Bay Wine and Cheese and Moonside Bakery. La Piazza Courtyard, 604 Main Street, Downtown Half Moon Bay. Media Contact: Charles Nelson (650) 726-6559

- LOCAL RICHES -

Farm Fresh
May 3rd 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 outdoors May through November on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Shoreline Station parking lot (Kelly Avenue & Cabrillo Hwy/Hwy 1). For more information, contact Erin Tormey, market manager (650) 726-4802, farmersmarket@coastside.net.

Full Bloom
Half Moon Bay, touted as the flower capital of the country, is in full bloom at the Coastal Flower Market, which runs year-round on the third Saturday of every month (except October). The market is held outdoors May through September at the intersection of Main Street and Kelly Avenue, and indoors at La Piazza at 604 Main Street, November through April. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. For more information, call (650) 712-9439.

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. Attend the special Father’s Day Tea on June 14 or tour the 2.5 acre demonstration garden, host to hundreds of specimens of plants native to California, ranging up to 25 years of age. 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.


Seaside Exploration
Sea kayaking has taken off in popularity in the Bay Area, and there’s no better place to experience it first hand than Half Moon Bay. In this dynamic and diverse environment, explorers can kayak among harbor seals, seabirds and other marine sanctuary wildlife in protected Pillar Point Harbor or take a ride on the wild waters of the open Pacific. Half Moon Bay Kayaking Company offers rentals of single, double, and triple kayaks – perfect for a solo trip or the entire family. There’s also a wide range of instructional programs for all levels of training. Two Johnson Pier, Pillar Point Harbor. For more information and reservations, call (650) 773-6101 or visit www.hmbkayak.com.

- LODGING NEWS -

Outdoor Adventure
The luxuriously appointed New England-style Beach House Hotel has partnered with Half Moon Bay Kayaking Company to offer the “Evening Kayak Package” that includes a choice of a sunset paddle or a full moon paddle, overnight accommodations in a guest suite, a complimentary bottle of Half Moon Bay wine, a $75 gift certificate towards dinner at adjacent Sam’s Chowder House and two complimentary glasses of California chardonnay. Sunset paddles are held every Friday night from 5 - 8 p.m., May 2 – September 26; dates and times for the three hour full moon paddle vary. The “Evening Kayak Package” ranges for two people from $356 - $444 (weekdays) and $548 - $669 (weekends). 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 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, 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.

Half Moon Bay Lodge, 2400 S. Cabrillo Highway. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-9000 or visit www.halfmoonbaylodge.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’s Ritz Kids Program features a full or half day of fun activities such as exploring tide pools, swimming, board games, arts and crafts projects, tennis, golf, soccer, volleyball, making s'mores, and much more. This program is for children ages five to 12. In addition, there are a variety of fun special events for kids including: a Ping Pong Tournament (May 31); Father’s Day Tennis (June 15); Karaoke Madness (June 28); Speed Stackers Night (July 19); and Children’s Spa Day (August 9). One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations for both programs, call (650) 712-7667. Media Contact: Jennifer Chiesa, (650) 712-7696, Jennifer.Chiesa@ritzcarlton.com.

Vacation Eco-Friendly Style
This summer, guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay will have the unique opportunity to assist the local community while vacationing with the “Preserving Montara Mountain” program, which offers guests an exclusive opportunity to learn and help maintain the beauty of the undeveloped coastal mountain-area for future generations. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is collaborating with California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and Avalon Transportation (SF) for a half-day program of hiking designed to teach guests about the unique ecology of the region and learn about the tunnel and bridge project currently underway to realign California’s Route 1 between the towns of Pacifica and Montara, an area known as Devil’s Slide. The bridges pass over a valley containing ponds and wetlands that are home to the endangered red-legged frog. Guests will join Caltrans biologists and geo-technical specialists for a hike along Montara Mountain as the specialists explain the environmental and historical significance of the tunnel and bridge project and its impact on the Mountain and surrounding areas. Guests will then work with biologists in eliminating non-native plants within the region’s large-scale preservation and restoration areas. The program is available on June 18, July 16 and August 27. One Miramontes Point Road. For additional information and reservations for both programs, call (650) 712-7667. Media Contact: Jennifer Chiesa, (650) 712-7696, Jennifer.Chiesa@ritzcarlton.com.

- CULINARY NEWS -

Quirky Cameron’s
Cameron's Pub is home to the world’s only English double-decker bus/smoking lounge and extensive beer can collection (more than 3,000 to be exact). From the two red double decker buses that serve as a smoking lounge (adults only) and a game room especially 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.

Wine and Food Extravaganza
Highly acclaimed Mediterranean restaurant Cetrella has teamed up with several highly esteemed wineries to offer gourmet wine dinners. On May 20, Executive Chef Robert Holt will partner with Silver Oak Vineyards to host a five-course wine dinner paired with exclusive wines. Highlights include: house smoked Sonoma foie gras tourchon with cabernet gastrique; house made tagliatelle, crispy pancetta, spring onions and Oregon morel mushrooms; beef short ribs braised with porcini mushrooms and cabernet sauvignon nante carrots; and Scharffenberger chocolate and cherry mousse cake with bing cherry coulis. On July 22, Chef Holt is preparing a five-course Italian-inspired menu to accompany wines from Italy’s best houses including Sorelle Bronca, Colle Stefano, Agricola Marco Porello and Romano Dogliotti. Guests will enjoy award-winning wines from regions such as Veneto, Toscana and Le Marche. Dinner highlights include: stuffed, crisp fried daylight farms squash blossoms; warm Mediterranean octopus salad; Tuscan wild boar ragu with open faced ravioli and shaved truffled pecorino; wood oven roasted New Zealand venison loin with crispy red wine risotto cake and mesquite grilled asparagus; and sweet crespelle filled with carnaroli risotto and zabaglione. For more information and reservations, call (650) 726-4090 or visit www.cetrella.com. Media Contact: Tami von Isakovics, (415) 274-2510, tami@wagstaffworldwide.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 Kid Andersen Smokin' Blues, Blues For State Blues, Andy Santana and much more. June features a special Fathers Day event on June 15 that includes world class brews, free live reggae music and a special menu just for dad. On Fourth of July weekend, the celebration features a special menu, patriotic brews, and a weekend full of great live music. 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.

- TOURS -

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 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.

Outdoor Adventure
Half Moon Bay is home to one of the nation’s most ecologically diverse habitats, and Coastal Elegance Tours offers outdoor adventure-seekers the perfect way to experience this fascinating piece of the coastside. A sample of the tours includes an eco-bike tour, a coastal limo tour, tide pool explorations and a beach picnic. For more information and reservations, call (650) 712-8456 or visit www.coastalelegancetours.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 “Over the River and through the Woods” from June 6 – 28. These well-meaning, loveable characters provide a heart-warming glimpse into the heart of the Italian-American family and their antics. “The Full Monty,” in the theaters July 25 - August 16, tells the story of six down-on-their-luck steelworkers from Buffalo trying to raise a little cash for a friend in need. 1167 Main Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact (650) 569-3266 or visit www.coastalrep.com.

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

WHAT’S NEW IN HALF MOON BAY