• Where is Pacifica located?
    • Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean between Half Moon Bay and San Francisco is the charming beach city of Pacifica.
  • What landscapes can visitors experience in Pacifica?
    • Your vacation there will take you through broad valleys, rolling hills, towering mountains, and of course, an endless stretch of golden beaches.
  • Why is Pacifica a popular travel destination?
    • Regionally, Pacifica is extremely popular as a surfing destination.

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1. Pacifica State Beach


Surf popular waves and enjoy scenic ocean views.

Pacifica State Beach

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Visited by over a million people every year, Pacifica State Beach is also commonly known as Linda Mar Beach. The crescent-shaped beach is less than a mile long and can be found near the San Pedro Valley in downtown Pacifica. It is an extremely popular site with beginner surfers due to the milder waves that can be found there. In addition to surfing, you can spend your time swimming, sunbathing, taking part in beach yoga, or indulging in one of the many other water sports that are available there. If you get hungry, head on over to the beach’s Taco Bell which is recognized as one of the most scenic Taco Bell locations in the world.

5000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacifica, CA 94044, Phone: 650-738-7381

2. Mori Point


Hike coastal trails and admire panoramic Pacific vistas.

Mori Point

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Situated along the banks of the Pacific Ocean and a part of the Golden National Recreation Area, Mori Point is a 110-acre haven that is filled with natural beauty and wildlife. The main attraction, Mori Point itself, is a prominent bluff that can be seen jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. Visitors are urged to walk to the tip of Mori Point so they can see stunning views of the peninsula coastline. In addition to the bluff and ridge, the large expanse of land is also home to wetlands and small ponds - all of which have trails winding through them, making it easy to explore. You’ll come across several species of flora and fauna while you’re there so be on the lookout for threatened and endangered animals such as the California red-legged frog or the San Francisco garter snake.

Mori Point Rd, Pacifica, CA 94044, Phone: 415-561-4323

3. Devil's Slide Trail


Walk along rugged cliffs and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.

Devil's Slide Trail

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A segment of what used to be Highway 1, the Devil's Slide Trail is a 1.3 mile long path that takes you through the precarious heights above the Pacific Ocean. The trail can be accessed by hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders - all of whom can stop at the trail’s many overlook points and observation scopes to take in the breathtaking beauty of the rocky waters below. Amenities that are available along the trail include several benches and interpretive signs which describe the geography, history, flora, and fauna of the area. Other facilities on the paved trail also include bike racks, restrooms, drinking fountains, and pet waste stations.

Off Highway 1, between Pacifica and Montara, Phone: 650-355-8289

4. Pacifica Municipal Pier


Fish for local catches and admire sunset views.

Pacifica Municipal Pier

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Located on Sharp Park Beach and spanning over 1,140 feet, the Pacifica Municipal Pier is one of the best fishing piers in all of California. Extending out into the Pacific Ocean, anglers in the Bay Area flock to the pier all year long in hopes of catching a high number of quality fish. Even better, there is no admission charge nor is a fishing license required to go fishing off the pier. Some of the fish that you might catch include striped bass and salmon; if you prefer, crabbing is also allowed and no license is required for that either. Facilities that are available on the pier include fish cleaning stations, restrooms, benches, lighting, and a coffee house/ snack bar.

2100 Beach Blvd, Pacifica, CA 94044, Phone: 650-738-3760

5. San Pedro Valley Park


Explore wooded trails and discover serene natural beauty.

San Pedro Valley Park

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San Pedro Valley Park is a wonderful place to explore Pacifica’s outdoors. There are seven trails in the park, each of varying length and different amenities. The longest one is Hazelnut Trail and is a 3.7 mile path that winds through the park. Montara Mountain Trail is 2.1 miles long and will have several vantage points that look out into the Pacific Ocean while the one-mile-long Brooks Creek Trail will lead you to the gorgeous 175-foot-tall Brooks Falls. Weiler Ranch Road Trail is known for its abundant wildlife and is best explored in the early mornings, and the Plaskon Nature Trail is popular with many as it is wheelchair accessible.

600 Oddstad Blvd, Pacifica, CA 94044, Phone: 650-355-8289

6. Sweeney Ridge Trail


Hike historic trails and enjoy sweeping Bay Area views.

Sweeney Ridge Trail

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Just half an hour away from San Francisco, the Sweeney Ridge Trail is a hilly hiking area that is adjacent to Thornton State Beach. Visitors can head up to the 1,200-foot-high summit of the ridge to see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the bay, coastal scrubs, and grasslands. At the trailhead, you will find a cluster of greenhouses that were originally built in 1949 but are now known as the Shelldance Nursery; within it, world-class hybrid orchids are cultivated and open to the public for viewing. Some of the flora and fauna that you may come across include spring wildflowers, deer, and hawks. If you’d prefer going on a guided hike, the park rangers there conduct several walks through Sweeney Ridge.

7. Rockaway Beach


Relax on sandy shores and explore charming local shops.

Rockaway Beach

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Often recognized as one of the cleanest beaches in the San Francisco Bay Area, Rockaway Beach is popular with tourists and locals alike as it is filled with a number of shops and restaurants on its waterfront. Be sure to climb up to the scenic overlook for stunning panoramas of the beach, the Pacific Ocean, and the neighboring town. Popular activities you can participate in while there include swimming, sunbathing, hiking, biking, surfing, fishing, and walking along the beach. There are several amenities such as showers and restrooms to make your stay more comfortable. A paved path can be found along the length of the beach for walkers, joggers, and wheeled visitors.

Cabrillo Hwy and Rockaway Beach Avenue, Pacifica, CA 94044

8. Shelldance Orchid Gardens


Admire exotic orchids and explore peaceful greenhouse spaces.

Shelldance Orchid Gardens

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One of the city of Pacifica’s most unique attractions is Shelldance Orchid Gardens, a world-renowned bromeliad nursery. The gardens were originally established in 1949 by Herb Hager, who used his skill and vision to turn an artichoke field into what was then state-of-the-art greenhouses. Other than a change in name, the greenhouses have essentially remained the same until today. You will be able to see world-renowned hybrid orchids, many of which are named after local area landmarks such as Pacifica, Pedro Point, and Pacific Ocean. Go explore the ethereal place and walk through the arrangement of plants - you’ll also come across an array of local artwork throughout the gardens.

2000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacifica, CA 94044, Phone: 650-355-4845

9. Milagra Ridge


Walk through preserved habitats and enjoy stunning coastal views.

Milagra Ridge

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A part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Milagra Ridge is a protected 275-acre, open-area park that is open to the public for hiking and exploration. The ridge has a rich history, having first been inhabited by the Ohlone indigenous people and later on by Mexican Ranchers and Spanish settlers. In the 1930s the land was acquired by the United States Army who proceeded to build Battery Construction No. 244, a fortification which was a part of a larger defense network to protect the San Francisco Bay. The battery was decommissioned in 1950 and its ruins can still be found in the park today. In addition to seeing the ruins, you’ll also come across various flora and fauna during your hike in Milagra Ridge; some of the special status species you may see are the San Bruno elfin butterfly, California red-legged frog, and the San Francisco garter snake.


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather and beautiful coastal blooms. Pacifica Beach Hotel – A charming stay with ocean views and easy beach access. Hike at Mori Point – Enjoy stunning cliffside trails and Pacific Ocean views.
Summer (June-August) – Cool coastal breezes, ideal for beach outings. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pacifica – A comfortable and well-located option. Relax at Rockaway Beach – A perfect spot for surfing, picnicking, and sunset views.
Fall (September-November) – The best weather with clear skies and fewer crowds. Pacifica Lighthouse Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham – A boutique oceanfront stay. Visit Pacifica Pier – Try fishing or enjoy scenic walks along the coast.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and misty, great for storm watching. Americas Best Value Inn Pacifica – A budget-friendly option close to the beach. Watch the winter waves at Linda Mar Beach – A great time to see powerful surf and dramatic scenery.

Plan Your Trip


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