9 Beautiful Coastal Towns near San Francisco - Northern California Coastal Towns

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Northern California is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and fog-kissed beaches. Just a short drive from San Francisco city, a visit to these coastal towns near San Francisco has everything from surfing and hiking to boutique shopping and fresh food.

These Northern California coastal towns combine nature, nostalgia, and charm in a way few other places do. Whether you’re craving a laid-back beach escape or a scenic adventure, these beach towns near San Francisco are perfect for a weekend getaway.

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Coastal towns near San Francisco – Beach Towns in Northern California

Let’s read my favorite and best coastal towns in Northern California, with distances from San Francisco, things to do, where to stay, and travel tips to make the most of your trip.

Half Moon Bay – Rugged Beauty Meets Relaxation

Distance from San Francisco: 30 miles (45 minutes via Highway 1)

Nestled along the legendary Highway 1, Half Moon Bay is a classic choice when talking about coastal towns near San Francisco. This seaside town is where dramatic cliffs meet quiet sandy beaches and scenic farms. The main town is quaint, filled with boutique shops, cozy bakeries, and excellent restaurants.

Half Moon Bay offers a little bit of everything—surfing, tide pooling, farm visits, art galleries, and one of the most photogenic coastlines in Northern California coastal towns.

Things to do:

Stroll along Half Moon Bay State Beach, a four-mile stretch of scenic coastline.
Hike the Coastal Trail for panoramic views and marine wildlife.
Visit Pillar Point Harbor for kayaking or fresh seafood at waterfront eateries.
Explore Lemos Farm or Harley Farms Goat Dairy for family-friendly fun.

🏨Where to stay: Check into the Nantucket Whale Inn, a charming bed & breakfast offering coastal decor, garden views, and just minutes from the beach—perfect for mid-budget travelers.

💡Pro tip: Go on Weekdays for fewer crowds. Dress in layers, as the fog can roll in quickly.

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Pacifica – The Surfer’s Hideaway

Distance from San Francisco: 15 miles (20 minutes via Highway 1)

Often overlooked, Pacifica is one of the best-kept secrets among beach towns near San Francisco. Just a short drive from the city, this chill surf town offers incredible sunsets, a peaceful vibe, and easy-access hikes.

With fewer tourists and spectacular scenery, Pacifica is a great place to unwind without straying too far from the city. It’s among the easiest and closest northern California coastal towns to explore on a whim.

Things to do:

Surf or watch surfers at Linda Mar Beach.
Hike Mori Point for unbeatable coastal views and spring wildflowers.
Walk the Devil’s Slide Trail, a former coastal highway turned scenic trail.

🏨Where to stay – Pacifica Lighthouse Hotel is a cozy oceanfront stay with hot tubs, fireplaces, and views of the crashing surf—perfect for an overnight escape.

Tour idea: Book a surfing lesson at Linda Mar Beach, a popular beginner’s beach.

💡Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends—parking fills fast at popular beaches.

Bodega Bay – Food & Cinema Nostalgia

Distance from San Francisco: 70 miles (1.5–2 hours via Highway 1 or US-101 N)

Famous as the filming location of Hitchcock’s The Birds, Bodega Bay is a peaceful fishing town with epic coastal vistas. Here you will find some of the freshest local food and a raw, windswept coastline among northern California coastal towns.

It blends cinematic history, coastal adventure, and culinary delight. Plus, the drive there is half the adventure.

Things to do:

Sample local oysters at Spud Point Crab Company.
Visit Bodega Head, where you can spot whales and enjoy rugged sea views.
Explore the nearby Sonoma Coast State Park for secluded beaches and scenic hikes.

🏨Where to stay – Bodega Bay Inn offers comfortable rooms and a laid-back vibe at mid-range prices. Its central location is ideal for exploring the surrounding coastal beauty.

💡Pro tip: Pack binoculars—whale watching is possible from shore between December and April.

Point Reyes Station – Nature & Cheese Lovers’ Paradise

Distance from San Francisco: 45 miles (1.5 hours via Sir Francis Drake Blvd)**

Tucked within Point Reyes National Seashore, this coastal hamlet feels like stepping into a different world. Known for its food, hikes, and wild beaches, it’s a favorite among San Franciscans seeking a reset.

This is one of the most serene and eco-conscious coastal towns in Northern California, rich in wildlife and artisanal experiences.

Things to do:

Walk to the Point Reyes Lighthouse for jaw-dropping cliffside views.
Eat farm-fresh cheese at Cowgirl Creamery.
Hike Tule Elk Preserve or the iconic Tomales Point Trail.

🏨Where to stay – Book a stay at Olema House, a stylish country inn that blends rustic elegance with proximity to trails and beaches.

Tour idea: Take a guided kayaking tour on Tomales Bay, especially magical at night with bioluminescence in summer.

💡Pro tip: Cell service is limited in the park. Download maps ahead of time.

Santa Cruz – Surf Culture & Boardwalk Fun

Distance from San Francisco: 75 miles (1.5–2 hours via CA-17 S)**

As far as beach towns near San Francisco go, Santa Cruz is the perfect mix of fun and surf. It has a famous boardwalk, mellow vibe, and is the birthplace of California’s surf culture.

Santa Cruz has a lively energy with a classic beach-town feel, perfect for families, surfers, and foodies alike.

Things to do:

Ride the Giant Dipper roller coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Watch surfers at the world-famous Steamer Lane.
Explore tide pools and sea lions at Natural Bridges State Beach.

🏨Where to stay – Hotel Paradox offers modern comfort and a resort-style pool just a short drive from the beach and downtown.

Tour idea: Book a whale watching tour from the Santa Cruz Harbor—migrating whales are frequent visitors.

💡Pro Tip: Summer weekends get very crowded; visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Mendocino – Cliffside Romance & Redwoods

Distance from San Francisco: 155 miles (3.5–4 hours via Highway 1 or US-101 N to CA-128 W)**

Mendocino is one of the most picturesque and romantic northern California coastal towns. With dramatic cliffside trails, Victorian buildings, and nearby redwood forests, it feels like a movie set.

Mendocino’s natural beauty and small-town sophistication make it a must-visit for artists, writers, and nature lovers.

Things to do:

Hike the stunning trails at Mendocino Headlands State Park.
Visit the Mendocino Art Center and browse local galleries.
Wander through Russian Gulch State Park and see the hidden waterfall.

🏨Where to stay – Hill House Inn offers Victorian charm, garden views, and ocean breezes without a hefty price tag.

💡Pro Tip: Bring a jacket—the coastal wind can be strong even in summer.

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Capitola – Colorful Coastal Charm

Distance from San Francisco: 75 miles (1.5–2 hours via CA-1 S)**

Just south of Santa Cruz, Capitola is one of the most Instagram-worthy beach towns in Northern California. Its pastel beachfront houses and calm waters make it ideal for couples and families.

Capitola offers a European-style charm, walkable beach area, and delicious seaside dining.

Things to do:

Relax on Capitola Beach and paddleboard in the gentle waves.
Stroll Capitola Village for boutiques, wine bars, and sunset views.
Attend Capitola Art & Wine Festival if you’re visiting in September.

🏨Where to stay – Capitola Hotel is a delightful boutique stay right in the heart of the village, steps from the sand.

💡Pro Tip: Parking can be tricky—park at the beach bluff and walk down.

Dillon Beach – Quiet Coastal Bliss

Distance from San Francisco: 65 miles (1.5–2 hours via US-101 N and Dillon Beach Rd)

A lesser-known gem, Dillon Beach is one of the quietest and most peaceful northern California coastal towns. This private beach town is perfect for those seeking solitude and sea breeze.

Here you will find peace, pet-friendly beaches, and lovely cottages without the hustle and bustle of bigger beach towns.

Things to do:

Walk along the wide, dog-friendly Dillon Beach.
Have lunch at the Coastal Kitchen Café, known for fresh catch and cozy vibes.
Explore Lawson’s Landing for fishing or camping options.

🏨Where to stay – Dillon Beach Resort offers charming cabins and beach cottages with views and cozy interiors.

💡Pro Tip: Great for a quiet romantic weekend—bring your snacks and wine, as there are limited stores.

Stinson Beach – The Quintessential Day Trip

Distance from San Francisco: 23 miles (1 hour via CA-1 N)

Tucked within Marin County, Stinson Beach is among the best coastal towns near San Francisco for a day trip or a quick overnight escape. It’s popular with sunbathers, hikers, and kite surfers alike.

Its wide beach, proximity to the Muir Woods, and chill surfer vibe make it a classic NorCal retreat.

Things to do:

Swim or surf at Stinson Beach, one of the safest in the area.
Hike the Dipsea Trail or nearby Mount Tamalpais for panoramic views.
Have a beachfront brunch at Parkside Café.

🏨Where to stay – Sandpiper Lodging offers easy beach access, simple comforts, and excellent value.

💡Pro tip: Arrive early for parking, especially on sunny weekends.

Helpful Tips – Beach Towns in Northern California

Whether you’re chasing waves, hiking coastal cliffs, savoring seafood, or simply soaking in sunsets, the northern California coastal towns offer something unforgettable. The best part? They’re all within a few hours’ drive from San Francisco, making them ideal for weekend getaways or last-minute adventures.

Always pack layers—weather shifts quickly along the coast.
Most towns have limited public transport, so renting a car is best.
Book accommodations early during summer or festival weekends.
Respect nature—many beaches are part of protected state parks.

From romantic escapes in Mendocino to quick beach breaks in Pacifica, these coastal towns near San Francisco promise refreshing, soul-stirring experiences without straying far from city life. There’s no better way to experience the magic of the Northern California coastal towns than by hitting the road and letting the ocean guide your way.

9 Beautiful Coastal Towns near San Francisco – Northern California Coastal Towns

Coastal towns near San Francisco – Beach Towns in Northern California