I was in San Francisco for a conference. My days were packed with meetings and seminars, but my mind kept wandering. I’d heard whispers that Half Moon Bay Golf Links and its stunning coastal views were a must, so I freed up a few hours, booked a twilight tee-time and Ubered my way there. The rolling hills and foggy stretches of Highway 1 only added to the anticipation. Little did I know, this detour would be one of the most memorable moments of my trip.
I could feel the excitement building as the car wound its way down the scenic coastline, but nothing could’ve prepared me for what I saw as I pulled up. Half Moon Bay Golf Links isn’t just a course—it’s part of a sprawling Ritz-Carlton resort. The hotel loomed majestically above the cliffs, its sumptuous presence overlooking the Pacific Ocean. I suddenly felt a bit out of my element.
As I checked in at the pro shop, I found out I’d been paired with two other golfers for the round—locals who play the course weekly. With no idea what to expect, I was apprehensive at first, but my nerves were appeased the minute I met them. They were as down-to-earth as they come and insuppressibly enthusiastic about the Ocean Course. They eagerly showed me around, pointing out their favourite spots, sharing tips on how to handle the coastal winds and recounting the many, many rounds they’d played together. As we made our way from hole to hole, it quickly became clear why they were so fond of this place. It wasn’t just the challenge of the course itself, but the sense of connection they had to the club and each other.
The Ocean Course at Half Moon Bay is a breathtaking test of skill. Designed in a classic links style, it weaves through coastal dunes and rugged cliffs, with wide fairways that give way to challenging wind conditions and changing views of the Pacific Ocean. The course is as visually striking as it is challenging, with dramatic holes like the par-3 17th where you hit over a bluff to an ocean-side green. The combination of natural beauty, strategic design and an ever-present coastal breeze makes the Ocean Course a memorable experience for golfers of all levels.
Post-round, I lingered a little longer to take in the views. The Ritz-Carlton terrasse was bustling with guests soaking in the stunning sunset over the ocean, and the rolling fairways and tall cypress trees below seemed aglow in the fading light. It was a feast for the eyes and appetite as eye-catching seafood towers were dispatched to the tables. The kind of place where you can’t help but want to share the moment.
I grabbed a pint of cold beer and found a spot on the terrasse overlooking the Old Course. It felt like a scene from a movie, and I realized how lucky I was to have stumbled on this place. With the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore, I grabbed by phone and frantically started video calling family and friends.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and cast a golden light over the course, it was time to find an Uber back to the city. I felt uneasy as I scrolled and scrolled for a car. I tried refreshing and checking again but still nothing. My heart started beating fast when I realized I might be stuck. Hoping for some good news, I decided to try my luck at the pro shop where the attendant gave me a knowing look. “Not the first time it’s happened,” he said with a chuckle. “I’ve seen plenty of people stuck here after thinking it’d be easy to get back to the city.”
A quick scan of the hotel’s nightly rates only further frayed my nerves, and I decided to give it one last shot. A car finally popped up. It was going to cost a lot more than I’d planned—almost triple the usual fare—but I was in no position to haggle. I booked it, knowing I’d probably be telling the story for the rest of my life.
As I waited, I reflected on the day. All transportation issues aside, it had been unforgettable. From the exhilarating round with my new friends to the awe-inspiring views and sheer beauty of Half Moon Bay, it had been an adventure like no other. As the stunning Ritz-Carlton disappeared into the distance, I felt a wave of satisfaction—a reminder that the impromptu moments are what make travel so memorable.
Green fee: US$70 (twilight) to US$116 including cart
One of the most breathtaking terrasse views ever
36 holes - The Ocean Course & The Old Course
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