01
Best overall pick
Pacifica State Beach (Linda Mar)
Pacifica • Wide Crescent Surf Beach • Best All-Around Option Near Burlingame
A broad sandy cove with consistent waves, easy parking, and a laid-back surf-town vibe about 15–20 minutes from Burlingame.
If you want the classic Northern California ocean day without a long drive, Linda Mar is usually the first place locals think of. There’s room to spread out on the sand, surf schools working the whitewater, and a paved path ideal for a stroll with coffee in hand. Fog can roll in fast, so bring layers and aim earlier in the day for the clearest views.
02
Most scenic close to town
Rockaway Beach
Rockaway District, Pacifica • Compact Cove With Cliffside Views • Great For Sunset Strolls And A Meal
A smaller, dramatic beach framed by bluffs, with restaurants and bars just steps from the sand.
Rockaway feels like a quick coastal getaway without committing to a full-day trip. The beach itself is fairly small but intensely scenic, with waves crashing against rocky headlands on both sides. Come for a golden-hour walk along the waterfront path, then duck into one of the nearby spots for seafood, tacos, or a drink while you watch the light fade.
03
Most dramatic coastline
Montara State Beach
Montara • Wild, Open Ocean Shoreline • Best For Big Views And Photography
A wide, windswept beach with rugged cliffs and powerful surf that feels strikingly remote for being so close to Burlingame.
Montara State Beach is where you go when you want the coast to feel untamed. Steep bluffs, pounding waves, and long sightlines make it a favorite for photographers and anyone who just wants to stare at the horizon. It’s usually cooler and windier than inland, and the surf is strong, so think more along the lines of walking, tide watching, and picnics on the sand than casual swimming.
04
Classic day-trip beach
Half Moon Bay State Beach
Half Moon Bay • Long, Mellow Sandy Shoreline • Best For Long Walks And Classic Beach Days
Miles of gently curving coastline with space for walking, kite-flying, and sprawling out with a picnic blanket.
Half Moon Bay State Beach offers the most traditional beach-day setup within easy reach of Burlingame, especially around the Francis Beach area. A coastal trail runs above the sand, connecting several access points and making it easy to tailor your walk or bike ride. Expect cool water and variable fog, but also plenty of room to spread out, clean facilities, and a relaxed, family-friendly feel.
05
Closest calm-water option
Coyote Point Recreation Area Beach
San Mateo Bayfront • Sheltered Bay Beach And Park • Best For Young Kids And Casual Picnics
A small, protected bayfront beach paired with a large park, playgrounds, and walking paths just a short hop from Burlingame.
When you want water access without wind-whipped Pacific waves, Coyote Point is the easiest choice. The bay here is calmer, and the beach tucks right into a broader park with lawns, picnic tables, and one of the better playgrounds on the Peninsula. It’s more about views of planes, sailboats, and the San Francisco skyline than open-ocean drama, but that’s exactly the appeal for low-key afternoons.