Pacifica State Beach

One of the most popular surfing spots for beginners near San Francisco, Pacifica State Beach is also a very popular destination for dog walkers, baby pushers, runners, fishermen, beach combers, and fans of Taco Bell. The beach is located off of Highway 1 at the south end of Pacifica just before Pedro Point. There is ample parking on both sides of the road, and while parking fees are required, a 30-minute parking pass is free. Most of the surfers tend to populate the south end of the beach, and on weekends the water can get extremely crowded when the conditions are good. The small, weathered wood building on the edge of the beach is perhaps the only Taco Bell right on the Pacific Ocean.

The beach stretches north for about three-quarters of a mile to the small point separating this beach from Rockaway Beach. Running parallel to the beach is a paved path that winds up and over this point, providing great views of Pacifica Beach and Rockaway on the other side. The path uses switchbacks to keep the grade easy for strollers and walkers of all abilities.