This property is one of my favorite Ritz Carlton properties. It rivals Laguna Niguel as one of the most scenic and most attentive properties from Ritz Carlton that I've ever stayed at. While I don't think it's thought of as a flag-ship property (the way Central Park is), it is absolutely gorgeous with amazing ocean views, the spa is wonderful, and the restaurant (Navio) is a training ground for Michelin Star chefs. See former chef Peter Rudolph for proof at Madera (at the Rosewood hotel now).

Overall, this is a romantic, highly attentive Ritz with two great golf courses and a magnificent Spa, fire pits, and wine tasting rooms. Great for couples, probably OK for kids although I think this is a more couple and business targeted Ritz. A lot of companies like to do offsite retreats here because it's only 30 minutes from SFO airport but feels a million miles from anywhere.

We had drinks in a quiet area before we were taken to our private dining room. We had 3 waiters looking after our every whim and they did a great job. We were 14 and tightly packed around the table, not that it detracted from our enjoyment. We went for the set menu with wine but the bill was still around the $4,000 mark. Pleased it was not me paying!

Great food although unusually for the US the portions were quite small, ie the crab dish which I think was from a hermit crab. All in all, a great experience and would stay with the wife here in the future.

The fireplaces, the cliffs, the waves crashing...the setting is spectacular. We took a long walk along the golf course that I will never forget. The weather is chilly, perfect for a comfy sweater and for cuddling up with a warm blanket near a fire pit in the evening. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant, Navio, was one of the best meals we had in California. We only stayed for one night, as there isn't much to do in the area, but it is a perfect stop on your trip along the coastal highway. We enjoyed the spa pools as well and the sitting rooms with magazines and fruit. The hotel is pure relaxation and calm. Highly recommend it to couples, not a place for kids.

After three days at the Ritz in HMB, I came to the conclusion that for a local getaway in the Bay Area, one would get much more bang for the buck heading north to Wine Country. The room was small, but nice. The food was below average for extremely high prices. The staff was very nice and attentive, but inefficient. Food at the corporate events was below average. We were fortunate to have great and warm weather, so I thought it would be relaxing to sit on the one of many chairs outside, the the service was so poor, it became more stressful to order a drink. By lower prices, or upping their standards, this place would be worth a weekend getaway, but they have a way to go. I've stayed at several Ritz Carlton properties, and this one does not live up to the Ritz standard.