Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
5. CHINA BEACH
Officially called James D. Phelan Beach, this is the poshest beach in San Francisco,
being an adjunct to the exclusive Sea Cliff neighborhood. Despite its pedigree,
however, California law requires that all coastal areas remain public, although access
roads to them can be private. China Beach is small and protected from the wind,
there's plenty of parking, and it's a pleasant walk down to the sand. Once there, you'll
find showers and even changing rooms.
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6. LAND'S END
Although extremely beautiful in a wild, untouched way, this tiny, rocky beach is only
for the hardiest nature-lovers. It's quite a hike to get here, although taking the trail
up above it is quite a bit easier than going by the lower, coastal trail. Many habitués
have built little sun-traps for themselves, by piling up rocks to wall-in their patches
of sand (for further details see
Oceanfront Parks
)
.
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7. OCEAN BEACH
Some 4 miles (6.5 km) long and quite broad, this is the city's largest beach by far, but
probably the worst for entering the water safely. It starts at Cliff House and continues
on beyond the city limits, turning into picturesque dunes at the southern end. Great
for walking or jogging, and when the sun comes out, it's a fine place to sunbathe (for
further details see
Ocean Beach
).
The Great Hwy
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8. HALF MOON BAY
About 22 miles (35 km) south of the city, the Half Moon Bay shoreline forms a long,
gently curving sandy beach accessible at several points off Highway 1. A horseback
riding trail runs from Dunes Beach to the bluff area of Francis Beach, and picnicking,
kite-flying, surfing, and surf fishing are popular activities.
Hwy 1
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