Pacifica

Pacifica is located just 12 miles south of San Francisco along the scenic coast of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its natural beauty, Pacifica is filled with numerous hiking trails through rolling hills that overlook the ocean surf and forested canyons. Rich in history, beauty and community spirit - Pacifica has something for everyone!
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The San Francisco Bay Area’s reigning surf sanctuary may be only 15 miles away from “the city,” but it is worlds apart regarding culture and lifestyle. Watersports rules in this stunning seashore haven, which is amply reflected in the town’s laid-back ethos. This is a place for amazing outdoor adventures or unwinding well away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It’s a place as legendary for its beautiful beaches as it is for its epic hiking trails.

The splendors of nature take center stage in this beach town, from wildflowers that bloom in vivid colors along the coastline to rugged outcroppings and the dramatic waves that crash against them. A slew of chill bars and relaxed restaurants adds to its kick-back ambiance, but the luxury estates in this community are anything but: They run the gamut from spacious refuges tucked into the hillside to waterfront wonders where the Pacific will lull you to sleep at night.

What to Love

• A haven for migrating blue and humpback whales
  
• Terrific for kayaking, swimming, and other watersports
  
• A darling drag with cafes, coffeehouses, and vintage boutiques
  
• Removed, artsy, and tranquil
  
• Proximity to San Francisco and Half Moon Bay
  

Local Lifestyle

Pacifica operates at a different pace than the rest of the San Francisco Bay Area, which is precisely why people come here in droves — either for a restorative weekend away or to set down their roots in a serene setting. In step with the Hawaiian Islands’ surfer-informed “aloha spirit,” Pacifica welcomes all who enter. Whether you’re an urban professional who works in Silicon Valley or an entrepreneur with your own technology company on the Peninsula, Pacifica is an oasis for a dynamic and friendly group of residents.

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

Pacifica carries its vacation vibes straight on over to its culinary scene. A Grape in the Fog is especially fantastic. The splendid wine bar features a formidable list of vino and exceptional Spanish dishes; triple-creme brie with rosemary-prosecco-clementine jam, traditional, Gruyere-topped French onion soup, and cognac duck liver mousse with toasted bread points are just three of the gems you’ll find on their small but striking menu.

​​​​​​​Mazetti’s Bakery is the go-to spot in town for out-of-this-world baked goods like tres leches cake with vanilla buttercream and fresh-out-of-the-oven focaccia. Italian-inspired sandwiches — perfect for a day at the beach — are found at Colombo’s Delicatessen - Pacifica, while Gorilla BBQ has the hearty, smoked-meat dishes you need to fuel up after surfing. For a unique experience, meander into Lovey’s Tea Shoppe for a hot cuppa and a house-made scone with berry preserves and clotted cream.

Things to Do

Pacifica is practically synonymous with its annual (and outrageously fun) Fog Fest on Palmetto Avenue, a lively fete featuring arts and crafts, live music, and a great parade.

​​​​​​​Outdoor pleasures abound here. Children will be delighted with the play structures at Frontierland Park, while kids, teens, and adults will be remiss not giving surfing a try. (Lessons are available with Surf Camp Pacifica.) There are also several surf competitions hosted in Pacifica throughout the year, including the epically fun and adorable World Dog Surf Championship at Linda Mar, the southernmost stretch of shoreline in Pacifica, and the best place to strap on your surf leash.

Schools

School-aged children are served by the Pacifica School District and may have the opportunity to attend:

• Ocean Shore K-8 School provides a nurturing environment for project-based learning through a combination of whole class, small group, and individualized instruction. Thematic projects involve mixed-age groupings and inclusion of diverse learners.
  
• Ortega Elementary School
  
• Cabrillo K-8 School
  
• Vallemar K-8 School
  
• Ingrid B Lacy Middle School
  
• Sunset Ridge School
  
• Linda Mar Educational Center
  

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In 2023, the Pacifica average price for a home was $1,372,944, a 7% decrease from the previous year.