It’s not too late to plan a quick getaway to Half Moon Bay to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Close to the cities and suburbs of the Bay Area, the coast can feel like a world away. The natural beauty, slower pace and charming hotels, shops and restaurants make it an ideal spot for romance. While you will undoubtedly find your own way to celebrate, here are a few suggestions for your next visit.
Stay
While many hotels do book up far in advance, you can use our lodging search to find available rooms. Here are a few suggestions.
Half Moon Bay Lodge is right near the beach and the spacious rooms and suites have cozy fireplaces. There’s also a heated pool, Jacuzzi and complimentary breakfast.
Aristocrat Hotel, BW Signature Collection has lots of British touches that are sure to charm anyone with a bit of wanderlust.
Miramar Inn & Suites is a budget friendly spot just a short walk from the beach. All rooms include complimentary breakfast.
Get Outside
It’s hard to imagine anything more romantic than a horseback ride on the beach. Seahorse Ranch still has reservations for rides on Friday, Sunday and Monday the 14th.
The Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail is perfect for a hike or a bike ride. Head to Half Moon Bay Kayak Co. to rent bikes. If you want to get in the water, they also rent paddle boards and kayaks. Check our Half Moon Bay Trail Guide for hiking and biking options.
Shop
Head to The Paper Crane for a great selection of Valentine’s Day cards and sweet gifts including soaps, wind chimes, mugs, journals and scarves.
Alma & Bee is Downtown Half Moon Bay’s newest boutique, with a curated collection of unique goods and accessories for women. The shop focuses on eco-ethical practices, with sustainably made apparel, vegan handbags and cruelty-free self-care products.
Eat
While rooms may be booked at the Ritz Carlton HMB, you can still book a Valentine’s Day dinner at Navio, weekend brunch or afternoon tea the Conservatory. This deluxe spot is always worthy of a splurge and offers extravagant dining and drop-dead views of the ocean.
A special 3 course Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu is available at Italian favorite Mezzaluna by the Sea. It includes tons of options including lots of pasta and seafood.
For something a little out of the ordinary, snag a reservation at La Costanera for Peruvian food served in a stylish dining room with great harbor views.
Drink
Barterra Winery will be offering Valentine’s Bubbles and Scones on Sunday the 13th and a special Valentine’s Wine and Chocolate Pairing on Monday the 14th. Call or visit their Facebook page for more details coming soon. Barterra has indoor and outdoor seating and has special dessert wines along with reds, whites and a cheese plate or charcuterie plate to share.
Half Moon Bay Wine & Cheese Company located on Main Street has a wine bar where you can taste and try a flight of wines. The shop opens at 10:30 am, 7 days a week with no reservations so stop by when you like and try something new.
Indulge
Treat yourself or your sweetheart to that classic expression of love, chocolate at Half Moon Bay’s own fine chocolate shop, Sweet 55. For Valentine’s Day they are offering a Valentine’s Chocolate Mousse Cake, chocolate themed bonbons and more and will be open on Monday from 11-4pm.
Gulino Gelato offers another sweet way to indulge. Stop by on Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday for scoops of strawberry basil gelato, raspberry sorbet or Guittard chocolate.
Moonside Bakery always offers luscious cakes that are perfect for celebrating such as their Strawberry Mousse, Raspberry Buttercream or tiramisu. For Valentine’s Day they will offer handmade chocolates, cookies, fondant hearts and cupcakes.
