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Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay: California's Coastal Slice of Scotland

Scotland captivates with its Celtic castles, innovative cuisine, and timeless whisky heritage, earning a spot on The New York Times "52 Places to Go in 2018" list. If Scotland feels too far, visit Northern California's Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay. Legendary golfer Arnold Palmer developed the area's first luxury golf course here in the 1970s. Since rebranding in 2001, this AAA Four-Diamond resort has infused Scottish charm throughout. Discover why it's affectionately called "Scotland by the Bay."

When morning fog clears from the bluffs, the Bay Area's only seaside resort reveals stunning Pacific Ocean vistas, mirroring Scotland's rugged North Sea cliffs.

Capture aerial views of the property with drone photography through the hotel's Drone Experience—lessons on the Ocean Terrace provide thrilling photos.

In Meghan Markle's home state of California, tour nearby Gilded Age mansions and chateaus that rival Scotland's ancient Highland castles.

No Scottish trip is complete without golf; this resort features two Scottish-inspired courses hugging the shoreline.

Non-golfers can relax on private balconies or terraces with fire pits overlooking the links.

Six days a week, the resident bagpiper performs a sunset serenade on the first hole.

Grab Adirondack chairs, cocktails, and enjoy the spectacle by the fire pits—perhaps making new friends.

Or pick up s'mores kits from the front desk to roast marshmallows over the flames.

Like Scotland, the resort's dining emphasizes fresh seafood.

Beyond Scotch whisky, explore local distilleries, vineyards, and breweries for craft spirits, wines, and beers.

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