About
The hamlet at MOONSTONE GARDENS restaurant is situated on 3 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The restaurant occupies the original redwood and glass structure designed in 1961 by previous owners Bill Shultz and Bob Oaks. It was called Exotic Gardens; it became their residence, a gift shop and a nursery. They planted the gardens with very beautiful and unique species of succulents and cacti from various parts of the world. Some of these species still exist here today and have grown quite massive.
Owner, Roy Ford initially partnered for many years with established local restaurateurs Norm and Maggie Hamlet back in 1979. He purchased the property and shared the vision of the restaurant and gardens as a central coast destination place for travelers and locals alike. With great food, a wonderful selection of local wines and sweeping coastline views it simply can’t be beat.
The gardens are also home to a nursery, wood gallery and a lovely day spa. Be sure to pay them a visit and visit them on the web:
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Exotiscapes Nursury |
Cypress Studios |
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Huell Was Here
It is true! In October of 2002, Huell Howser and his Cameraman Cameron Tucker paid us a visit. They filmed a half hour segment of California’s Gold, which, continues to air on KCET Los Angeles.
Huell was impressed by the beauty of the central coast and by the garden oasis he discovered here. Huell walked the gardens with Roy and his Daughter Heather discussing their history and vision of the grounds. Steve Wexler, the former horticulturalist and nursery owner from years past, pulled scientific plant names out of his hat for us all. He described the origins of many of the species here and explained why these plants grow the way they do.
Huell and Cameron did not get away without a taste of our homemade lemon ice cream! It was certain to peak their interest after the afternoon in the sun. The show aired for the first time November 1, 2002 and continues to rerun to this day. We have certainly enjoyed meeting all of his fans that come to see us!
Copies of the show can be purchased by contacting KCET Los Angeles or by visiting us here at The hamlet, we usually have a few videos on hand.
