The hype
Guests are blown away by the scenery and the 'castle' vibe but often feel nickeled-and-dimed by the exorbitant on-site pricing.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
$900-1400/ night
Book this if You want a Scottish cliffside golf resort experience without crossing the Atlantic, and you have the budget to match.
Why People Love It
- The nightly bagpiper playing at sunset on the ocean bluff
- Private fire pits on ground-floor terraces for roasting s'mores
- Spectacular 'edge of the world' views of the Pacific Ocean
Quick Take: It’s a stunning, bucket-list property that charges you for every single breath you take—including $70 for parking and $40 for marshmallows.
Reviewed by @gonbendavid: I stayed in the Fire Pit Room and honestly, having my own fire on the terrace while watching the sunset over the golf course was unforgettable. It’s pricey, but for a romantic escape, it feels like another world. Just bring layers!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'public' coastal trail runs right in front of the premium fire pit rooms, so your romantic sunset might have an audience of hikers.
- You are a golfer (two world-class courses on site)
- You love moody, foggy, romantic weather with fireplaces
- You are celebrating a major anniversary and price is no object
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Generally impeccable twice-daily service, though occasional reports of missed dusting on high lampshades.
- Bathroom hygiene: Marble bathrooms are usually sparkling, but isolated complaints of 'swampy' drain odors exist.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition for a salt-air property; paint and wood are well-maintained.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count Frette linens and plush, heavy towels.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh flowers and woodsmoke; rooms are generally fresh.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Bagpiper at sunset (audible in ocean-facing rooms)
- Foghorns in the distance
- Wedding events on the lawn
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Guest House' is a separate building a short walk/shuttle from the main hotel; it's quieter but less convenient.
- S'mores kits from room service cost ~$40; bring your own chocolate and graham crackers if you're thrifty.
- Dress in layers—it can be 50°F and windy in July.
What to pack
- A warm fleece or puffer jacket (even in summer)
- Golf clubs (or rent them there)
- Your own marshmallows and chocolate (seriously)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Terrace Fire Pit Room (Ground Floor) for the signature s'mores experience
- Coastal View Room (3rd/4th floor) for privacy and unobstructed ocean sightlines
Rooms to avoid
- Courtyard View rooms (you're staring at a wall or garden, missing the point of the hotel)
- Rooms near the main ballroom if a wedding is scheduled
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a Coastal View room on a higher floor to maximize the ocean visibility above the fog line. If a Fire Pit room is available, please ensure it is not directly adjacent to the main public walking path for privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there an outdoor pool?
No. There is only a heated indoor pool at the Colony Club. Do not book this expecting a sun-bathing pool scene.
Do Marriott Platinum members get free breakfast?
No. Ritz-Carlton properties are excluded from the free breakfast benefit. Expect to pay $40-$60 per person.
How much is parking?
Valet is mandatory and costs approximately $70-$75 per night. There is no self-parking for guests.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Yes, but it's pricey. Expect a ~$250 non-refundable cleaning fee plus a ~$20 nightly fee.
Can I see the ocean from every room?
No. 'Golf View' and 'Courtyard' rooms do not have ocean views. You must book 'Coastal' or 'Ocean' view specifically.
When does the bagpiper play?
Every evening starting about 45 minutes before sunset, rain or shine.
Insider Tips
- ✨
There is a small public parking lot for the beach nearby, but using it while staying at the hotel is frowned upon and risky for overnight.
- ✨
The 'Coastal Trail' is public; you can walk miles north or south along the cliffs directly from the hotel.
- ✨
Book a spa treatment to use the spa's private whirlpool and sauna facilities, which are better than the main pool area.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'swampy' smell that can sometimes come from the drains due to the coastal water table.
💡The fact that you can hear the bagpiper in your room if you're trying to nap at 5 PM.
💡The 'Guest House' rooms feel like a completely different (and slightly less grand) hotel than the main building.
💡How aggressive the seagulls can be if you eat on the terrace.
💡The intense fog that can obscure the view for 3 days straight.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is located and what's nearby.