You just can’t beat Half Moon Bay for romance. Located 30 miles (48 km) south of San Francisco, this coastal community in San Mateo County is the ideal destination for a romantic rendezvous — on Valentine’s Day or any other day of the year. Luxury inns, intimate restaurants, spectacular scenery and good access abound in Half Moon Bay; and let’s face it, even the name just oozes romance.

Although there are scores of unique properties to choose from in the area, the Beach House and Landis Shores stand head-and-shoulders above the rest. Both offer excellent access, luxurious rooms and a very romantic atmosphere.

Enjoying the great view from the patio at the Beach House

Located next to Surfers’ Beach, the Beach House ( 4100 North Cabrillo Highway, Half Moon Bay) features 54 oceanfront lofts. There are four accessible guest rooms, including one (101) with a roll-in shower. All rooms have a separate living and sleeping area plus a microwave, refrigerator, wet bar and a small cook top. In short, everything you could possibly want or need for a romantic getaway. There is good pathway access throughout the spacious rooms, with level access to the balcony or porch.

There is also a sling lift available for the oceanfront pool and Jacuzzi. As an added bonus, there is level access to the paved coastside trail next door. It’s the perfect place for that romantic moonlight stroll.

Just down the road, on romantic Miramar Beach, you’ll find Landis Shores (211 Mirada Road, Half Moon Bay). This eight-room property features the accessible San Francisco Bay Room, which includes an open frame queen-size bed, wide doorways, lever handles and extra electrical outlets. The bathroom features a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead, a roll-under sink and grab bars in the shower and around the toilet. A portable shower chair is available upon request. The room also has a VCR, a gas fireplace and a private balcony. There is a one-inch (2.5 cm) lip on the balcony threshold, but it’s do-able for many people.

There is barrier-free access to all of the public areas, including the living room, dining room, public restrooms and the VCR library area. Wine and cheese appetizers are served in the living room every afternoon. Breakfast can be served in the dining area or (for a romantic start to the day) delivered to your room.