Pacifica, CA vacation rentals: Houses & more

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Destination guide

Welcome to the Pacific coast

The clue is in the name when it comes to Pacifica. This California community is perched right on the Pacific Ocean coast, making it a magnet for beach lovers and anyone who enjoys gazing out at the immensity of a sun-spangled ocean. It's not just any old beach spot, though. The area is particularly renowned for its superlative surfing opportunities, with the epic swells challenging even the more experienced surfers. Pacifica itself is a tranquil town just a 20-minute drive from downtown San Francisco. If you want to combine some Northern California sightseeing with time exploring the beaches, whale watching, or enjoying the many outdoor pursuits available along this stretch of coast, Pacifica vacation rentals are for you.

Things to do

Explore San Francisco from Pacifica

If you're staying at your Pacifica vacation rental with kids, the San Francisco Zoo is a fun day out. Just a short drive north up the coast, the zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals including elephants, monkeys, and majestic bears. Another 10 minutes up the Great Highway and you reach Golden Gate Park, Haight-Ashbury, and the city of San Francisco with all its famous sights: Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, its iconic trolleybuses and cable cars, and sights made familiar by movies and TV shows.

Activities

Coastal pursuits in Pacifica

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the miles of hiking and biking trails of Sweeney Ridge to the east, Pacifica is a great base for outdoor enthusiasts. To the south, Half Moon Bay is known for its golden beach, Pacific breakers, and the whales that often swim close to shore. Along this stretch of rugged coast, you'll find great surfing and fishing as well as glimmering tidal pools and fun beachcombing. Around 10 minutes north, Fort Funston has pretty dunes, World War 2 gun emplacements, hiking and horseback trails, and is a renowned hang gliding spot.

Weather

Seasonal adventures in Pacifica

This stretch of the California coast is known for its summer fogs which can gather overnight and into the early morning. However, it does enjoy warm summer weather, so these tend to burn off quickly, and generally the weather is warm and pleasant throughout the year. Fall is a great time to stay at a Pacifica vacation rental. The forested hills are ravishing as the colors turn coppery, and the mild temperatures are perfect for hiking and biking.

Natural features

Get outdoors in Pacifica

From a Pacifica vacation rental, it's possible to enjoy the best of the beach and the mountains. The Sweeny Ridge trail system is extensive, and just minutes from a Pacifica vacation rental. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Golden Gate Recreation Area, as does Rancho Corral de Tierra, its newest addition, just 20 minutes south of Pacifica. Explore the forested hillsides and patchy grasslands dotted with wildflowers and enjoy panoramic views to the ocean.

How to get there

Traveling to and around Pacifica

Fly into San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.), the closest airport, located 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into San Carlos, CA (SQL), which is 14.5 mi (23.3 km) away.

Where to stay around Pacifica?

Our 2019 property listings offer a large selection of 1,108 vacation rentals near Pacifica. From 334 Houses to 651 Condos/Apartments, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable stay with your family and friends. The best places to stay near Pacifica for a holiday or a weekend are on HomeAway.

What is the best area to stay when traveling to Pacifica?

Whether you're traveling with family or friends, here are the areas with the largest selection of vacation rentals for a holiday trip or just for a weekend in Pacifica:

Sharp Park: 22 vacation rentals
Linda Mar: 22 vacation rentals
Fisherman's Wharf: 724 vacation rentals
Downtown: 617 vacation rentals
Marina District: 390 vacation rentals

For other neighborhoods, please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available.

What are the popular points of interest near where I can stay when traveling to Pacifica?

HomeAway offers a large selection of vacation rentals near lovely places in Pacifica. From HomeAway travelers, the most popular points of interest to stay for a holiday trip or just for a weekend are:

Pacifica State Beach: 1,388 vacation rentals
Pacifica Pier: 1,561 vacation rentals
Sharp Park Golf Course: 1,520 vacation rentals
Stanford University: 596 vacation rentals
Muir Woods National Monument: 1,906 vacation rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Pacifica listed on HomeAway where you can find your place to stay. Please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available near the point of interest of your choice.

Can I rent Houses in Pacifica?

Yes, of course. HomeAway has 334 Houses in Pacifica. Our other popular types of vacation rentals in Pacifica include:

Condos/Apartments: 651 rentals available
Cottages: 11 rentals available
Studios: 569 rentals available

But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other vacation rentals including Bungalows and more.

Can I find a vacation rental with pool in Pacifica?

Yes, you can select your preferred vacation rental with pool among our 104 vacation rentals with pool available in Pacifica. Please use our search bar to access the selection of vacation rentals available.