Pacifica State Beach
State Park · Pacifica, California
Pacifica State Beach, known to locals as Linda Mar Beach, is a long crescent of sand on Highway 1 in Pacifica, San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco. It is the Bay Area's best-known beginner surf beach, with a gentle rolling break, surf schools and board rentals (confirm the operators), a paved path behind the sand and a creek mouth with a small wetland. There is also an oceanfront Taco Bell near the sand that draws visitors of its own. The water is cold all year, rip currents are real, fog is common even in summer and the parking lots fill on sunny weekends. Pacifica Pier is a city landmark nearby, and Mori Point and the Devil's Slide Trail are close. The beach is about 20 minutes from San Francisco in light traffic - confirm. It suits learners, families and dog walkers on leash, but it is crowded at peak times and a wetsuit is essential. Check the surf and fog before you drive, and plan to arrive early.
5000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacifica, California, 94044, United States
Hours are commonly 6 AM to 10 PM, which fits a coastal day-use beach, but the exact closing time and any seasonal change should be confirmed with the City of Pacifica or California State Parks before you go. The parking lots are managed with pay kiosks and enforcement, and parking commonly costs around USD 7 for four hours - confirm the current rate and the payment method. Lifeguard coverage, if any, is usually seasonal and limited to daytime, so check the posted flags and signs at the lot. Fog, high surf, sneaker waves and winter storms can close access points or the beach itself, and night visits are not advised. Arrive early on weekends.
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