Located just 15 minutes from San Francisco, the picturesque beachfront town of Pacifica is an ideal destination for an active three-day escape. Summer weekdays are lively, but spring, fall and winter offer quieter, equally appealing visits. Below is a suggested itinerary to make the most of three days in Pacifica.
© VisitPacifica.com
Day One
Start your stay by checking into a hotel that fits your taste and budget. Options range from large, full-service properties on Rockaway Beach to smaller, cozy inns. One popular choice on Rockaway Beach is the Lighthouse Hotel, while newer properties and family-friendly hotels also line the coastline. If you prefer staying closer to Linda Mar Beach, you’ll find hotels with ocean views and on-site dining.
For lunch, enjoy a seaside meal at a local restaurant known for fresh seafood and classic coastal fare. Afterward, stroll the shops and explore the Pacifica Coastside Museum at the Little Brown Church to learn about the town’s maritime and coastal history. In the late afternoon, relax with a pre-dinner glass of wine at a neighborhood wine bar, then dine at a beachfront restaurant with sunset views—perfect for savoring local seafood and California coastal flavors.
Day Two
Rise early and head to the public pier for a morning of fishing—no license required at Pacifica Pier—bringing along your own gear, tackle and bait. After a morning on the water, enjoy breakfast at a beloved local café before setting out on one of Pacifica’s scenic coastal trails. The Devils Slide Trail offers gentle walking and dramatic ocean views, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.
For lunch, sample local craft beer and casual bites at a neighborhood brewery. In the afternoon, take a short walk to Linda Mar State Beach to watch surfers tackle some of Northern California’s most consistent waves—ideal for both spectators and those wanting to try surfing lessons. For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in small plates and cocktails, where you can share a variety of dishes and enjoy a relaxed evening atmosphere.
© VisitPacifica.com
Day Three
Begin your final day with breakfast at a beachside diner offering outdoor seating and ocean views. Then explore sections of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area that border Pacifica. Mori Point is an accessible hike that runs alongside the Sharp Park Golf Course and opens onto panoramic ocean outlooks from the top. Milagra Ridge provides sweeping views of coastal bluffs and the Pacific—great for birdwatching and quiet reflection.
If you’re looking for a longer hike with historical significance, tackle Sweeney Ridge. This route rewards more experienced walkers with ridge-top views and the spot where, in 1769, European explorers first sighted San Francisco Bay. Wherever you choose to walk, bring layered clothing, sturdy shoes and water—coastal weather can change quickly, and the views make every effort worthwhile.
Final tips: plan for flexible timing to catch sunsets and low tides, reserve popular restaurants and lodging in advance during summer weekends, and pack a camera or binoculars to fully enjoy Pacifica’s dramatic coastline and abundant wildlife. With coastal trails, surf breaks and relaxed dining, Pacifica makes a memorable three-day retreat from the city.