Pacifica, California guide: What to do and where to stay – Middletown Press

The Pacifica Taco Bell is located at Linda Mar Beach with gorgeous views of the ocean.
There are many reasons to love San Francisco — Tony Bennett famously sang that he left his heart there — but if you’re looking for an easy day trip or a weekend getaway, you don’t have to go far. Just 15 to 20 minutes south on Highway 1, you’ll find the coastal town of Pacifica, a peaceful respite from the busyness of the city.
With its chill, beachy vibes, Pacifica is a surfer’s paradise. Still, if you prefer your activities to be on dry land, you can also find scenic hiking trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, amazing sunsets over the ocean, and the world’s most beautiful Taco Bell. Here’s what to do and where to stay in Pacifica. 
If you visit Pacifica, California, you’ll want to stick around until dusk for some incredible sunset views.
The weather in Pacifica, like most of coastal California, is mild year-round, so while it never gets too hot, it never gets too cold either. Temperatures usually range between 40-70 degrees, with the beach areas chillier than the inland hills.  
The best time to visit Pacifica depends on your weather preference and what you’re looking to do. If you’re seeking warmer temperatures, the spring and summer months (anytime between April and October, though June Gloom is a real thing) are your best bet. That is because the fog over the ocean tends to burn off by afternoon to reveal sunny, clear skies. Karl the Fog is never too far away or predictable though, so it’s a good idea to bring layers no matter what time of year you go.
Weather aside, there is no shortage of things and events throughout the year. Between February and April, you can spot gray whales migrating north just off the shore, and humpbacks make their journey between April and December. The annual Pacific Fog Fest happens in September (ironically one of the least foggy months of the year) and includes arts, crafts, food, music, and entertainment. There are also multiple surfing competitions throughout the year at Linda Mar Beach (also known as Pacifica State Beach), including one for four-legged athletes: the World Dog Surfing Championships take place in August, and in addition to the surf competition, there’s a dog fashion contest and pet adoptions.
When visiting Pacifica, you can hike popular trails, like Devil’s Slide.
There’s nothing quite like the California coastline, which is rocky, rugged, and undeniably beautiful. The best way to see Pacifica is by foot on one of the numerous hiking trails that wind along the bluffs. You’ll feel miles away from the city with nothing separating you from the sights, sounds, and smells of the Pacific Ocean. 
With its chill, beachy vibes, Pacifica is a surfer’s paradise. 
When in California, hit the beach. Northern California is not known for particularly warm beaches, but they’re still a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Pacifica has great surfing spots for all levels, with Linda Mar being a prime spot for beginners because the waves are ample but relatively calm. If you’re looking to get some practice on a board, you can take a beginner surf clinic (wetsuit and surfboard included), which teaches you ocean awareness, wave etiquette, pop-up technique, and more.
You can spot the Lighthouse Hotel while hiking at Rockaway Beach.
If you’re looking to spend a night or two in Pacifica, you’ll want to check out these hotels. Depending on the time of year, you can find a hotel reasonably priced for between $140 to $280 a night.
Lighthouse Hotel
Located at Rockaway Beach, Lighthouse Hotel is just steps from the beach. There’s a pool, hot tub, gym, and restaurant with views overlooking the ocean. You can choose between a regular guest room or a suite
Inn at Rockaway
Another hotel at Rockaway Beach, the Inn at Rockaway is set back further back than Lighthouse Hotel. It is just a few minutes from the beach. It’s pet-friendly, too, so you can bring your furry friends up to 35 pounds.
Pacifica Beach Hotel
For a hotel near Linda Mar Beach (and Taco Bell), Pacifica Beach Hotel is a great option. It has 52 guest rooms, many with jacuzzi tubs. The hotel also has an onsite restaurant, a heated pool, and is just across the street from the beach. 
You can choose from a number of beachfront VRBO listings for a fun weekend getaway.
Are you looking for a little homier feel? You can rent an apartment or house on VRBO, just steps from the beach. It’ll cost you a bit more than a hotel nightly but comes with more privacy.
Beachfront apartment for two
Enjoy a staycation by yourself with a partner at this beachfront apartment. Go to bed at night and wake up each morning to the sound of waves (no sound machine needed). Plus, there’s a balcony, fireplace, and dining nook with ocean views
Cottage near the beach
Stay 50 yards from the beach in this cute cottage, which has two bedrooms and one bathroom. In the afternoons and evenings, you can hang out in the backyard, which has a BBQ and fire pit.  
Giant beachfront house
Watch the sunset on your private deck in front of the fire pit at this large, modern home just north of the Pacifica Pier. It has five bedrooms and three bathrooms, so invite some friends or family for a relaxing weekend getaway. 
What the inside of Pacifica’s Taco Bell looks like. 
Fuel up before, during, or at the end of a day in Pacifica at one of these restaurants.
While visiting Pacifica, you can stop at local coffee shops like Soul Grind Coffee with a quick cup and nice ambiance. 
Pacifica is just outside of San Francisco, about 12 to 20 miles south depending on what part of the city you’re leaving from, and 15 to 20 minutes by car depending on traffic. The city includes several beaches along the coast as well as inland hills. across beaches along the coast and over into the interior hills. It’s easily accessible to SFO, which is about a 15-minute drive further south.
I did a little research and according to Safewise, which ranks the 50 safest cities in California, Pacifica dropped from 21 to 41 in 2021, and then fell off the list in 2022. I felt safe walking around there by myself, but I was on hiking trails or in Taco Bell. 

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