Hotel at a Glance: Oceano Hotel & Spa Half Moon Bay

Just outside this expansive 4-star hotel, schooners departing from Pillar Point Harbor glide along Half Moon Bay's peaceful waters. It's a scenic setting that influenced Oceano Hotel & Spa Half Moon Bay's architecture, which resembles a seaport oasis. Guests here may be tempted to lounge on their suite's private balcony to take in the scenery or the harbor's famous sunsets, but there are plenty of nearby adventures to take advantage of as well. Bike along the coast, or get your feet wet on a surfing or kayaking excursion.

• Stretch out: in your suite, which greets guests with private balconies overlooking the sea. Suites also feature a fireplace and a 42-inch flat-screen TV.
• Savor fresh seafood and aperitifs at the upscale Oceano Bar and Grill.
• Sink into a milk and honey bath at the on-site spa, which uses organic products.
• Eco-friendly hotel: Conscious of the region's scenic beauty, the hotel has implemented environmentally friendly practices, including using natural light in its public areas.
• Shops at Harbor Village: Browse more than two dozen boutiques and restaurants in this greenhouse-style shopping center, located just off the lobby.
• Fitness center helps you stick to your workout during vacation.
• Distance to downtown San Francisco: about a 40-minute drive

Half Moon Bay, California: Historical Town on the Bay Area Peninsula

Charming buildings dating back to the 19th century line Main Street in Half Moon Bay, a seaside town on a peninsula about 29 miles south of San Francisco. Half Moon Bay is largely rural, but it’s close to Silicon Valley, spurring business owners to move upscale restaurants, galleries, and boutiques into those century-old buildings. Local farms and coastal wineries supply eateries with seasonal fare and tasty varietals.

Many of the town's main attractions can be found along its gorgeous coastline. At Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, small pools fill up along the shore at low tide, revealing hermit crabs and starfish. You can explore the area's rocky terrain on your own or follow along with a volunteer naturalist, who will gladly point out critters in the sandy coves and monterey cypress trees in the forest. Locals also enjoy spending some recreational time at Half Moon Bay State Beach, a 4-mile stretch of oceanfront sand known for its summertime fog in the mornings and evenings.

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