Ultimate Pampering at Ritz Carlton’s Seaside Resort Spa
When I want to really pamper myself I like to go to a scenic seaside resort. Fortunately, the Spa at the Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a short 30 minute drive from San Francisco. Upon arriving at the resort I feel like I am a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. I don’t know what I love more, the ocean-view rooms with fire-pits or the luxurious spa.
My preference is a terrace fire-pit room with ocean views. It gets a little cool on the coast even in summer, so chilling-out with a glass of wine and watching the ocean with my own fire is heavenly. I discovered recently that an upgrade to the Ritz Carlton Club is essential. It allows access to the lounge where a selection of food, beverages and spectacular ocean views await.
To ensure as many treatments as possible, make spa reservations in advance. Try the Four Ways of Four Hands massage with a choice of the Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, Hot Stone, Thai, or Hot Poultice. This decadent massage has two massage therapists working in unison for the ultimate in relaxation and pampering. Take advantage of adding-on extras to the treatments. The signature body treatments are inspired by California agriculture: Pumpkin Spice, Calming Lavender, Coastal Cabernet or Sweet Chardonnay products. The Ritz Carlton Spa is one of a few spas that offer treatments under their own Vichy Showers. Imagine laying on a massage table while warm water gently cascades over your body, while you are massaged with mimosa oil and warm stones.
Don’t miss the Transformational Facial which combines pharmaceutical, botanical and organic ingredients with the highest concentrations of glycolic acid outside of a dermatologist’s office. This facial is designed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and leave your skin fresh and bright. This is as results-oriented as you are likely to find without visiting a doctor’s office and they don’t offer massages or body treatments!
Make time before or after your treatments to enjoy the sauna, steam room and jacuzzi located in the women’s spa or relax in the Roman-inspired co-ed jacuzzi. They will even deliver meals to the spa, so you can spend more time being pampered. Additional spa services include manicure, pedicure and hair-styling to make you look as fabulous as you feel.
After indulging yourself in the spa visit the Eno Wine Room where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly or wine from 60 choices. The knowledgeable sommeliers can help you find the perfect wine to suit your mood along with decadent cheese and chocolate pairings.
You will enjoy the resort’s outdoor terrace with ocean views, fire-pits and outdoor jacuzzi. During weekends, an hour before sunset a bag-piper strolls along the ocean-front pathway playing his tunes. The resort also offers a Fire and Wine Butler on the weekends to provide you with wine, spirits, cigars and a “S’mores Kit” fire-side to make your stay more memorable. Enjoying a glass of wine in your Adirondack Chair, watching waves crash against the shore with a fire burning bright, you won’t want to leave. If you are like me, you will want to come back as often as possible to enjoy being pampered and indulged at this beautiful seaside resort.
Details:
1 Miramontes Point Road
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
(650) 712-7000
