Explore Pacifica, California, in an RVshare RV Rental
Pacifica is a peaceful city of around 38,000 people located on the Pacific Coast of California. Before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, the area was home to two significant villages of the Ohlone people. The place where the city now lies was the earliest European discovery in San Francisco Bay. Pacifica became incorporated in 1957 as the union of nine previously separated communities.
The coastal city is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities. If you're looking to get outside and enjoy the beautiful oceanside weather, there are various scenic hiking trails where you can feel the cool breeze and look out over the water. Many visitors and residents also spend time surfing along the many miles of serene beaches, and others spend time working on their swing at the Sharp Park Golf Course. If you're a beginner surfer, Pacifica State Beach is the perfect place to get some practice. For a more leisurely experience, San Pedro Valley Park offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the picturesque nature in the area.
When it comes to indoor entertainment, the Pacifica Arts Center is one wonderful spot to enjoy a wide variety of performances and art exhibits. Another one of the most well-known landmarks in Pacifica is Sam's Castle, which features an eccentric 100-year history and can be explored via guided tour. When it comes to the best local cuisine, Puerto 27 is a delicious Peruvian restaurant that has been in the community for nearly 30 years. You'll definitely want to give their food a try during your stay, and you should also visit other tasty spots like Nick's Rockaway and the Moonraker restaurant.
The area also boasts the thriving Coastside Farmers Market where you can shop for a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as flowers, handcrafted artwork, and even skin and health care products. Because of Pacifica's proximity to San Francisco, visitors will also have convenient access to all the amazing landmarks and attractions that the nearby city has to offer.
Best State Parks Near Pacifica, California
There are several beautiful state parks within a relatively short drive of Pacifica, and one of these destinations is Half Moon Bay State Park. The park, which is about 23 minutes south of Pacifica, features 181 acres of protected beach land, which comprises several separate beaches along the Pacific Coast. The park is a perfect haven for water activities of all kinds, and it's also great if you just want to relax in the sunshine. The on-site campground offers campsites for $35 per night and features dump stations, restrooms, showers, and potable water.
Portola Redwoods State Park is comprised mostly of a large ravine filled with majestic redwood trees. The park features peaceful trails, which are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is located about an hour northeast of Pacifica.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park can be found a couple of hours south of Pacifica along the western coast of California, and the scenic park consists mostly of lush, forested area. The park's majestic, tall redwoods are truly unforgettable, and the 80 miles of trails can be used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors to the park will also encounter misty waterfalls and breathtaking vistas. There are four separate campgrounds in the park, and each of them charges $35 per night for a campsite.
Events Near Pacifica, California
Devil's Slide Saunter – This hiking event takes place at the Devil's Slide Trail in Pacifica. It takes place in January and requires reservations to participate in the group hike along the beautiful coastal trail.
Noise Pop Festival – This annual event in San Francisco features a variety of independent music and arts. The event has been going for nearly 30 years and takes place in mid-to-late February.
Pacifica Runners New Year's Eve 5K – This 5K race takes place on New Year's Eve each year at Rockaway Beach in Pacifica.