Best Surf Beaches in San Francisco

Located near the northern end of the city of Half Moon Bay, Mavericks Beach - also known as Pillar Point Beach - is situated adjacent to Pillar Point Harbor. Mavericks Beach has light brown sand and rocky reefs along its shoreline and is located below the bluff-top Pillar Point Air Force Station. The water near the beach is known for its gigantic and monstrous waves and is extremely dangerous for swimming, so it's recommended to be careful when visiting the beach’s shoreline. Big wave surfing enthusiasts often flock to this location, drawn by the renowned waves and the legend of discovering Mavericks.

Located in Marin County, Bolinas Beach is an L-shaped beach situated in the seaside town of Bolinas at the mouth of Bolinas Lagoon. The beach has light brown and the scenic Bolinas Ridge can be seen from here. Bolinas Beach has calm water with mild waves and is also called Brighton Beach because the beach can be accessed primarily via Brighton Avenue. Bolinas Beach does not have lifeguards or other amenities except restrooms, so come prepared. However, the beach does allow dogs on leash. Getting to Bolinas Beach is easy - it is located near the intersection of Brighton Avenue and Cliff Road off of California Highway 1 / Pacific Coast Highway. Free street parking is available along Brighton Avenue.

Stinson Beach is a picturesque, curve-shaped beach located in the town of Stinson Beach. Known for its light brown sand, it is part of the Gate National Recreation Area. Recognized by SFGate as one of Northern California's top beaches and featured in AFAR’s “16 Best Beaches to Visit in California,” it attracts visitors from all over. It is also a favorite of Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known at Mr. Beach. The beach opens daily at 9 AM, with closing times varying by season.