Welcome Letter from CEO

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1 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Welcome Letter from CEO Welcome to our new 2011 Pacifica Community Business Directory. Our goal is to provide our businesses, residents and visitors with a directory that encompasses all that we love about Pacifica. Locals and visitors Photo by Lynne Fried can enjoy an unforgettable experience of Pacifica that includes our scenic hidden treasures from Sam s Castle, Sanchez Adobe, and The Little Brown Church to our spectacular walking and hiking trails that hug the California coast with breathtaking beaches and picturesque coastal bluffs. As you browse through the Directory, you will find an array of specific goods and services offered by our local businesses, as well as useful information about Pacifica s rich history, recreation, entertainment and annual community events. Our City showcases a rich diversity of nine residential and business districts. Each district offers its own unique shopping experience, offering a wide variety of businesses, restaurants, cafás and boutiques, all designed to enhance one s stay or hometown experience. Pacifica offers numerous outdoor recreational activities which include walking, hiking, biking, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, swimming, golfing, skateboarding, bowling, archery, horseback riding and Segway tours. Want to enjoy a cultured night out on the town? This City is for you! Pacifica features several renowned entertainment nightspots, from dinner and dancing to live theater and concerts. Pacifica promises an enjoyable and memorable time which will live on in your hearts forever. Our chamber members are the jewels in Pacifica s crown. They are hardworking and enthusiastic about our City and dedicated to serving their customers and their community. The Pacifica Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting our community, commerce, City, and our unique coastal environment. We stand proud to partner with the City while representing and advocating on behalf of the business community. As a recent new member of the San Mateo County/Silicon Valley Convention & Visitor s Bureau, Pacifica will now be promoted internationally as a fun and beautiful tourist destination. The Chamber offers tourist information about Pacifica and helps businesses succeed in an ever-changing marketplace by providing advocacy, innovative tools and referral connections. Please visit our updated website at which now includes our new Pacifica Community Business Directory. Welcome to Pacifica where every day is another day in paradise! Courtney Conlon, CEO

2 PACIFICA HISTORY Pacifica History From the top of Sweeney Ridge, in 1769, a Spanish scouting party led by Gaspar de Portol, discovered San Francisco Bay, including the community now known as Pacifica. Capt. Portol was born in Balaguer, Catalonia, Spain, now Pacifica s Sister City. The San Francisco Bay discovery is considered the most significant in the western United States. Pacifica, with its fertile land, Mediterranean climate and proximity to San Francisco, attracted immigrants from Ireland and Italy who brought their Photo by Surrey Blackburn agricultural skills. It became a thriving vegetable farming area, producing the largest artichoke crop in the country in the 1890s. Between 1905 and 1920, the Ocean Shore Railway attracted small settlements around its stations. Locally, the first major builder was Ray Higgins; but the coast north of Devil s Slide remained sparsely populated until the post-world War II building boom. Then, developers such as Andy Oddstad and Henry Doelger began a rush of home building, and thousands of small houses covered the valleys and crept up the hillsides, each its own distinct community. Along with many homes, Mr. Higgins had also built the San Pedro School. When the student population outgrew the school, Mr. Higgins donated the building to the City of Pacifica; it is now our City Hall. In 1957, the city known as Pacifica was incorporated, consolidating the nine small communities of Fairmont, Westview, Pacific Manor, Sharp Park, Fairway Park, Vallemar, Rockaway Beach, Linda Mar and Pedro Point. A little later, Park Pacifica was added to the community. Although early plans called for Pacifica eventually expanding to about 100,000 inhabitants, changing sentiment in the early 1970 s led to the preservation of hillside open space (much of it now included in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area), and an effective limit of about 40,000 inhabitants. Over the years, the numerous citizens who have worked together to preserve our heritage and to create the many new

3 facilities we are proud to enjoy today have enriched the City of Pacifica. Pacifica offers an abundance of natural beauty, a fine golf course administered by the San Francisco Park and Recreation Department thanks to a gift from the estate of George and Honora Sharp, and a history enriched by Spanish explorers, Mexican ranchers, early Irish and Italian farmers, the surfing community who first realized what a treasure our waterfront is in the 1930 s, and the current population of nature and culture-loving Pacificans. Sanchez Adobe Photo courtesy San Mateo County Historical Association The Sanchez Adobe was constructed in the 1840 s using timbers salvaged from a wrecked Spanish ship that foundered on Point San Pedro. The Adobe is a lovely example of the authentic Monterey architecture, heavily influenced by Spanish design, coupled with relics of the Ohlone Indians and Spanish artifacts. During its first 100 years, the Adobe served as a bordello, hunting lodge, artichoke packing shed, farm laborers quarters, and a speakeasy during prohibition. It is the second oldest structure still standing in San Mateo County. The site now stands as a reminder of the more spacious and leisurely life of the past. The Adobe is open to the public Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free for children under 6. A $1.00 donation is requested of all other visitors. (650) ; 1000 Linda Mar Blvd., Pacifica, CA PACIFICA HISTORY

4 Little Brown Church Beginning life in 1910, the Little Brown Church was Pacifica s first church. It was built of rough sawn fir and redwood and stood just 100 feet from the tracks of the Ocean Shore Railroad. Known as the Salada Beach Presbyterian Church, it served as church, community social center, meeting room, public school, well-baby clinic and neighborhood movie house. The City of Pacifica bought the church for temporary use of the Pacifica Police Department and now leases it to the Pacifica Historical Society. Currently the focus of a $500,000 restoration fundraising drive by the Pacifica Historical Society, the Little Brown Church is long overdue for restoration in recognition of its significant contribution and place in the Pacifica community. (650) Pacifica Historical Society, P.O. Box 752, Pacifica, CA Sam s Castle Photo courtesy Pacifica Historical Society PACIFICA HISTORY Photo by Robert Azzaro In 1908, San Francisco rail magnate, Henry Harrison McCloskey, grandfather of Congressman Pete McCloskey, built the castle, modeling it after his wife Emily s childhood home in Scotland and christening it Bendemier. McCloskey erected the castle by the sea as a safe haven after his San Francisco home was severely damaged in the 1906 earthquake. With its century-long reputation as a speakeasy, an illegal abortion clinic, a brothel and Coast Guard barracks during World War II, the castle was purchased and restored in 1959 by the late Sam Mazza. Mazza

5 filled it with wondrous works of arts and antiques collected during his career as a theater painter-decorator for 20 th Century Fox. Sam s Castle, as it has been known for 50 years, is now in trust and is being renovated. The Castle is occasionally open to the public for tours by the Pacifica Historical Society courtesy of the Sam Mazza Foundation. (650) Sam Mazza Foundation, 900 Mirador Terrace, Pacifica, CA Ocean Shore Railroad The Ocean Shore Railroad Company was established in The railroad started in San Francisco and ran along a coastal route through small villages that later became Pacifica. It hugged the mountain at Devil s Slide and traveled south through Montara, Moss Beach, El Granada and Half Moon Bay. The route ended at Tunitas Creek, south of Half Moon Bay. Most of the Ocean Shore right of way was paved over and turned into Highway 1, reputed to be the most spectacular road on the West Coast. Rail buffs can still see signs of Pacifica s early railroad days. Portions of the right of way can be seen along the Rockaway headlands and along the railway berm in Pedro Point. The huge cut between Fairway Park and Vallemar was created by railroad engineers. Three railroad stations still stand. One is camouflaged as the ERA Dolphin Real Estate office at the corner of Manor Drive and Oceana Blvd. One is now the Vallemar Station Grill, located at 2125 Coast Highway. The third is Tobin Station on San Pedro Point (corner of Danman Avenue and Shelter Cove Road). The former outdoor shelter was enclosed many years ago and is now a private residence. Pacifica Pier The L-shaped 1,140 feet long pier is officially named the Rev. Herschell Harkins Memorial Pacifica Pier, after the much-admired Reverend from the Little Brown Church in the early days of Pacifica. Located at Sharp Park Beach, Pacifica Municipal Pier was Photo by Robert Azzaro opened in November It was built as a cooperative development of the City of Pacifica, the Wildlife Conservation Board and the California Dept. of Fish & Game. PACIFICA HISTORY

6 PACIFICA BEACHES The Pier, famous for its salmon runs and winter Dungeness crabbing, attracts many anglers. During salmon runs, hundreds of salmon are caught in a single day and every available space on the pier is taken by hundreds of anglers, fishing shoulder to shoulder. No fishing license is required on Pacifica Pier Primary species caught at the pier are Jack Smelt, White Croaker, Dungeness Crab, Salmon and Striped Bass. The pier is also a good place for whale viewing during their biannual migration. The Pier is open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Please note that the pier closes during rough weather.) The Pier is operated by the City of Pacifica (650) ; 7 miles of spectacular Pacific Ocean beaches provide a bevy of activities for locals and visitors alike. Beaches Linda Mar Beach (Pacifica State beach) Linda Mar Beach is the southernmost of Pacifica s large beaches. This picturesque, long, crescent-shaped beach is located at the mouth of the San Pedro Valley off the scenic and world famous Pacific Coast Highway. Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber This classic California beach marks the northern gateway to the coastline stretching south of San Francisco and is widely regarded as the best beach for surfing, kayaking and playing in the Bay Area. A variety of retailers offer rentals of surfboards, kayaks and lessons all year around. Private surf camps for children and adults operate during the summer. Linda Mar Beach also offers a bike and walking trail along the ocean, restrooms and showers and whale watching in the spring. It is also very popular with dog owners (dogs must be on leash). Linda Mar Beach/Pacifica State Beach CA-1 and Crespi Dr., Pacifica, CA, 94044

7 Rockaway Beach Rockaway Beach is located south of the Pacifica Pier along the Pacific Coast Highway. Its narrow strand, crashing surf and dramatic headlands makes it a popular walking, dining, and hotel destination. Offering the only beachfront hotels between Pacifica and San Francisco, several lovely properties offer comfortable, attractive rooms and suites where guests can hear the sound of the ocean s rolling waves. On Rockaway Beach, visitors can find hotels, restaurants, quaint shops, featuring the work of local artisans, scenic walking trails and the Pacifica Visitor Information Center, which provides maps, directions, brochures and postcards-- everything needed for an enjoyable stay in Pacifica. Rockaway Beach Ave., Pacifica, CA Photo by Surrey Blackburn Sharp Park Beach Sharp Park Beach is the location of the famous Pacifica Pier the only pier in the Bay Area open for crabbing during Dungeness Crab season. After visiting the pier, continue south along Sharp Park Beach, watch the shorebirds, then go up the trail leading to the top of the Mori Point Headlands, where you can enjoy spectacular ocean views as well as a broad vista of the Alister MacKenzie designed Sharp Park golf course, beaches to the north and the Marin Headlands more than 30 miles away. Sharp Park Beach has picnic facilities, a cafá, fishing, a walking promenade, vista point parking and nature trails. Mussel Rock Mussel Rock Beach is just west of the Pacific Coast Highway and Skyline Blvd. between Pacifica and San Francisco. Mussel Rock Beach offers a stunning vista across the sea cliffs to the Pacific. It is a striking configuration of one large rock and numerous smaller ones. Known as a stack, this formation occurs where a headland is eroded unevenly, leaving small islands. A rocky path leads from the parking area to an easy descent to the water where visitors can watch paragliders sail across the sky. The area is also home to raptors that enjoy the currents and thermals as much as the human gliders. In the spring, gorgeous wildflowers are a colorful backdrop to ocean views. PACIFICA BEACHES

8 WALKING & HIKING TRAILS Spectacular Trails The Golden Gate National Recreation Area The Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) chronicles two hundred years of history, from the Native American culture, the Spanish Empire frontier and the Mexican Republic, to maritime history, the California Gold Rush, the evolution of American coastal fortifications, and the growth of urban San Francisco. One of the world s largest urban national parks, Golden Gate National Recreation Area hugs the California coastline for nearly 60 miles in and around San Francisco. Pacifica is the backyard national park for our neighbors who live and work in the Bay Area. They come here to windsurf, walk the dog, go for a run, or bring their kids to explore nature and get a taste of history. The park also attracts visitors from across the country and around the world. Approximately 17 million people are drawn here annually by the unparalleled recreational opportunities, stunning natural beauty, and riveting history. Mori Point For nearly a century, Mori Point served as a haven for settlers, travelers, bootleggers and diners. Today this spectacular place serves as a haven for walkers and wildlife. A recent addition to the Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA); Mori Point property is considered the natural coastal extension of the National Park s Sweeney Ridge property located due east across Highway One. On the Mori Point property, visitors can stroll along paths through wildflower fields, visit restored habitat for threatened species, or marvel at the dramatic coastline from the upper trail that extends all the way to the western edge of Mori Point. From the coastal blufftop, visitors will marvel at the dramatic coastline, stretching north beyond Pacifica to the Marin Headlands and on a clear day Point Reyes. To the south, one is surprised and entranced by the sudden view of the beautiful but inaccessible hidden cove, and beyond, the Rockaway and Pedro Point Headlands.

9 Also visible is the Pacifica Pier, Sharp Park Beach and the earthen berm supporting the Coastal Trail and separating the beach from the Laguna Salada fresh water marsh and the Sharp Park Golf Course. Benches are available for sitting and enjoying the vista. The top of the point is a great whale watching location and sunsets from Mori Point are spectacular. Mori Point Rd., Pacifica, CA Sweeney Ridge From this ridge top in 1769, a scouting party led by Gaspar de Portol became the first Europeans to see San Francisco Bay. A monument marks the approximate location. Sweeney Ridge is a Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber federally protected captivating hiking area of ridges and ravines between San Bruno and Pacifica where steep and rolling coastal hills with ridges overlook the San Francisco peninsula, San Andreas Lake and the Pacific Ocean. The ridge s 1,200-foot-high summit, covered with coastal scrub and grassland, slopes down to the bay on one side and to the Pacific on the other. Wildlife includes hawks, deer, and a plethora of spring wildflowers. On a clear day, you will see the City of Pacifica and the shimmering Pacific Ocean and coastline. In the springtime, the hills turn gold with California poppies and other wildflowers. On Sweeney s crest, beyond the abandoned former missle site, look for the stone plaque honoring Portol s expedition. A nearby granite monument directs you to views from this scenic San Francisco Bay Discovery Site, including the Farallon Islands, Mt. Tamalpais, Point Reyes, Mt. Diablo, the Montara Mountain, and San Pedro Point. The trail is open to hikers, equestrians and bicyclists from 8:00 a.m. to dusk. The driveway leading up to the trailhead in the Shelldance Nursery parking lot is a little obscure. When driving, look for large, colorful signs declaring ORCHIDS on the east side of the Pacific Coast Highway One. Once you get up to the large gravel parking, lot you ll see a large Golden Gate National Recreation Area sign in the northwest corner, announcing the area as Sweeney Ridge. WALKING & HIKING TRAILS

10 PACIFICA PARKS Milagra Ridge Milagra Ridge s scrub-covered ridgeline runs east to west, offering impressive views of the cliffside City of Pacifica, the ocean, and the coast. This protected ridge is the focus of community efforts to restore the wildlife habitat and help ensure the survival of a number of rare and endangered species found within this national parkland. The ridge is critical habitat for the endangered mission blue butterfly and home to Redtailed Hawks, often seen spiraling overhead. Visitors are required to stay on trails and pets must be leashed. Bicycles are permitted on the paved trail only. The hiking is mostly level and mostly paved. Milagra Ridge Military Reservation ( ) - The 330 acre Milagra Ridge Military Reservation was acquired in 1942 during World War II for use as a coastal defense installation. Two coastal batteries were planned, Battery 244 was started in 1942 but not completed until after the war in 1947, Battery 130 was never built. Battery 244 was decommissioned in The reservation was used by the U.S. Army Defense Command for anti-aircraft missile Nike Site, SF-51, during the Cold War. The reservation was finally closed in 1972 and portions transferred to the City of Pacifica in The entrance to Milagra Ridge is off Sharp Park Road in Pacifica. From the Pacific Coast Highway (1), follow Sharp Park Road to the east, or from Skyline Bvd. (Highway 35), follow Sharp Park Road to the west. Turn north on College Drive and continue about 1/4 mile to roadside parking at the Milagra Ridge gate. Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) Ocean District (650) ; San Mateo County Parks San Mateo County Department of Parks provides you with recreational opportunities, designed to protect and enhance the natural resources of the County. San Pedro Valley Park A vast area embracing the middle and south forks of San Pedro Creek, which are Steelhead spawning grounds, this park is nestled amongst the Santa Cruz Mountain range and the foothills of Pacifica. The park offers group picnic areas, family picnic sites with barbecue pits, a self-guided nature trail, hiking trails, a visitor center, and views of the picturesque, seasonal Brooks Water Fall. San Pedro Valley Park is a walker s paradise. There are trails for all ages and fitness levels, ranging from the Valley View Trail to the wide vistas of San Pedro Valley and the Pacific Ocean from the top of Montara Mountain.

11 Photo by Lynne Fried The facilities at San Pedro Valley are primarily for day use only. Two picnic areas are available by reservation, the North Walnut Grove (accommodates 100) and the South Walnut Grove (accommodates 200). A visitor center near the park entrance displays exhibits about the ecosystem of San Pedro Valley and its plant and animal species. Some are live exhibits. The center is open weekends and holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No dogs are allowed in the park. Bicycles are allowed only on Weiler Ranch Road. The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until dusk. Take the Pacific Coast Highway to Linda Mar Blvd, then head east on Linda Mar Blvd. until it dead-ends at Oddstad Blvd. Turn right on Oddstad, go about 100 feet and turn left into the park entrance at Rosita Road. Entrance fees are $5.00 per car (650) ; 600 Oddstad Blvd., Pacifica Frontierland Park The park, tucked away on a Pacifica hillside in Park Pacifica, is one of those little-known Bay Area gems. Most notably, it sports a massive sloping lawn, well-kept amenities and one of the nicest children s playgrounds in the Bay Area. The park is extensive with forest, open space, a horseshoe area and a barbecue picnic area. Group picnic sites are also available. Perhaps the favorite event on this site is the lively, annual Fourth of July celebration, hosted by the City of Pacifica that includes face painting, tug-o-war, water balloons, races, great food and great fun for all! Turn right off Oddstad, onto Yosemite Dr. Go all the way to the top of the hill. The Park is on your left. Free Parking. Pacifica, CA (650) ; PACIFICA PARKS

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15 Maps created by Photo by Anne LeClair MAPS

16 Community Events Special events are an important part of community life, bringing enrichment and entertainment to the individuals who plan and participate in them. Pacifica is proud and pleased to offer a rich array of happenings and events, designed to appeal to the needs of its community and its visitors. COMMUNITY EVENTS th Pacific Coast Fog Fest The Pacific Coast Fog Fest on Palmetto Avenue is an annual celebration of sun, sand, and surf that defines life on the coast. Created in 1986 to promote Pacifica and to celebrate our marvelous coastal climate, the festival will be held this year on the weekend of September 24 & 25, Following the Annual Fandango dinner dance on Friday evening, the Fog Fest festivities begin on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. with the Discover Pacifica Parade, Sand Castle Contest and Marching Band Competition. Arts and Crafts booths, Food and Beverage booths and a variety of activities begin after the parade. With its mixture of arts and crafts, music, fine foods and the celebrated FOGCUTTER cocktail, this is a street fair not to be missed. For more information visit The Fall Family Fun Fest This annual play festival part of the Pacific Coast Fog Fest is designed to promote healthy family play, both competitive and cooperative, with an emphasis on participation and a sense of community. Hundreds of families participate in a wide variety Photo by Scott Leslie Photo courtesy Pacific Coast Fog Fest of games and activities led by city staff and trained volunteers. A truly collaborative effort of community groups, businesses, and San Francisco State University student volunteers, the Fall Family Fun Fest has been an essential event in Pacifica for 28 years, helping to introduce new games and the idea of cooperative play to the community. The event is free and tons of fun! The Fall Family Fun Fest will be held on Sunday, September 25 th from

17 1 to 3 p.m. Located on the field and black top of Ingrid B. Lacy Middle School, 1427 Palmetto Avenue, at the North end of the Pacific Coast Fog Fest. For more information about the Fun Fest only, please call Pacifica Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Department at (650) Annual Fandango A festive, Spanish-themed dinner dance is the Friday night kickoff to the celebration of the annual Pacific Coast Fog Fest, to be held on Friday, September 23 rd, The Sanchez Adobe, the original home of Don Francisco Sanchez and a historical Spanish landmark, is the venue of this yearly event. The Pacifica Chamber of Commerce, and FFOG sponsor the Fandango. Coastside Farmer s Market Fresh produce, music, homemade crafts and pastries are available from May through December. Visit the Coastside Farmer s Market at Rockaway Beach. The hours of operation are 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday (May December). 3 rd Annual Pacifica Chili Cook-off Held at the historic Pedro Point Firehouse at 1227 Danmann Avenue, this event on the third Sunday of August is not for the faint of heart! The competition includes two categories of chili: meat and vegetarian, judged by civic leaders, the fire chief and fire crew, in case the chili gets too hot! For Pedro Point Firehouse events visit Photo by Robert Azzaro Photo by Lynne Fried Annual Car Shows The Terra Nova Car Show and BBQ will be held Saturday, May 14 th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Terra Nova High School, 1450 Terra Nova Blvd. There will also be raffle prizes and special events for kids. Proceeds benefit the Terra Nova High School Industrial Tech Department, including Auto Tech and Wood Shop. COMMUNITY EVENTS

18 Saturday, June 25 th marks the date for the Last Originals Car Show featuring old and new beauties. The event will be located at the Sea Bowl parking lot, 4625 Pacifica Coast Highway, and runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Annual Surfing Contests Pacifica is home to 6 annual surfing contests: COMMUNITY EVENTS Contest Name Held in Organized by Marine Mammal July Norcal Surf Shop Surf festival Summer Classic July The Log Shop Kahuna Kapuna August Pacifica s Environmental Family North Coast Classic October 1 day or surf contest and 1 day golf tournament (Formerly P-Town Classic) Norm Payne The Big Chill October Pedro Point Surf Club Uncle Dick s North Coast November biggest, and longest running surf event, a 2-day surfing contest Norcal Surf Shop Tournaments, Leagues and Organized Sporting Activities Pacifica offers a wide array of sporting events and activities that appeal to people of all ages and sports interests. Pacifica Sea Lions Swim Team The Pacifica Sea Lions swim team is a competitive swimming program for youth 5 to18 years of age. Sign-ups are held on a daily basis. Swim meets are held at the newly refurbished Jean E. Brink Swimming Pool, located on the campus of Oceana High School, 401 Paloma Avenue. The 10-lane, 25-yard pool is open year round. The competition team practices Monday through Friday between the hours of 4 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. The pre-competition team practices Monday through Thursday from

19 Photo by Scott Leslie 6:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The cost for joining the competition swim team is $60 per month plus a $5 sign-up fee for the first month. The cost for joining the pre-competition team is $50 per month plus a $5 sign-up fee for the first month. Recreational swim and lessons are also available for all ages. Please contact City of Pacifica s Recreation Coordinator Vicki Russo at (650) or (650) Pedro Point Surf Club The Pedro Point Surf Club of Northern California was formed by a group of surfers in 1987 at Pedro Point (Pacifica State Beach), the club s home break. The club s charitable purpose is to raise funds to contribute to local community and beach related nonprofit groups. The club s philosophy is: Respecting the beach and ocean, having fun in the water, and making friends, with surfing as the vehicle that brings surfers together. Club members have a spirit of camaraderie, coordination, cooperation, etiquette, and giving back to our environment and others. Youth Soccer League Pacifica AYSO is a volunteer recreational soccer league serving the local community. All coaches and referees are volunteers, most often parents of players. As part of the American Youth Soccer Organization, its vision is to provide world-class youth soccer programs that enrich children s lives. Player registration is held each spring. League play begins September and lasts for 10 weeks. Teams are scaled by age groups younger players play with fewer players on the field to encourage a real foot on the ball experience. Team size gradually increases with each age group. A fall soccer league is also offered. COMMUNITY EVENTS

20 The Pacifica United Soccer Club, affiliated with the California Youth Association, is available for youths interested in playing a higher-level soccer. Youths between 8 and 19 can participate in the PUSC, primarily a tournament league. Little League Baseball Pacifica is home to two Little League baseball leagues. The Pacifica National League provides play for youths living in North Pacifica to the Rockaway area and the Pacifica American League accommodates youngsters in the Linda Mar area. The volunteerrun organization is committed to providing a fun, safe environment for children between the ages of 4 and 16. The two leagues are members of the District 52 Little League. Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber COMMUNITY EVENTS Girls Softball The Pacifica Girls Softball League is one of many girls fast pitch softball leagues located on the peninsula. Affiliated with the Northern California American Softball Association (NorCal ASA) the PGSL has been developing young softball players for over 41 years and trying to prepare them for softball at the high school level. All coaches are ASA Certified and are willing to teach all levels. Photo by Scott Leslie

21 Youth Football Pacifica Tigersharks Pop Warner Football and Cheer operates and maintains an organized youth football and cheerleading program to familiarize youth with the fundamentals and provide them an opportunity to play football or cheer in an adult supervised, organized, and safety oriented environment. Youths compete with players of similar age and size. Pop Warner sets and enforces a strict age and weight matrix that reduces the risk and severity of injuries. Minor League Football Photo courtesy Pacifica Islanders Football Club The Pacifica Islanders are a Minor League Football team based in Pacifica, registered as a non-profit corporation. The team practices and plays its home games at Terra Nova High School. The Islanders compete against other minor league teams from California and across the United States. The Islanders provide adult athletes the opportunity to continue to play organized football and provide financial support to youth programs in the community. COMMUNITY EVENTS

22 ENTERTAINMENT Entertainment Pacifica offers a rich variety of events and performances to bring entertainment and enrichment to the community and visitors. Designed to be accessible to all ages and interests, these engaging happenings include: World-class musical and dance performances, art exhibitions by California artists, organizations and children, juried art shows, live theater, poetry readings and more. Pacifica Spindrift Players Pacifica Spindrift Players is non-profit, year-round performing arts theatre group that provides high quality, live community theatre to Pacifica and the surrounding Bay Area. Presentations include revivals of favorite plays and musicals as well as contemporary productions. The PSP also houses and supports the Spindrift School of Performing Arts, offering classes and a summer camp program. (650) ; 1050 Crespi Dr., Pacifica, CA Mildred Owen Concert Hall Mildred Owen Concert Hall, formerly known as the Sanchez Concert Hall, is the home of Pacifica Performances, offering world-class artists in jazz, classical, blues, comedy and the spoken word. The Concert Hall seats 150 in a comfortable Photo provided by Jean Bartlett environment. The hall has a large stage with stage lighting and professional sound system, dance floor, Baldwin concert grand piano, free parking close to door and is wheelchair accessible. The Concert Hall is also available to rent for parties and recitals. (650) ; 1220A Linda Mar Blvd., Pacifica, CA Sanchez Art Center The Sanchez Art Center has become one of the Bay Area s finest cultural attractions. It is located in the Pacifica Center for the Arts on Linda Mar Bvd., 1.5 miles east from the Pacific Coast Highway. Exciting art exhibits change eight times a year in each

23 of the three beautiful galleries. In addition, this magnificent center, created by artist and community volunteers, houses artist studios, a ceramics lab, and an arts education room. The art center provides exhibitions by emerging and established California artists; education and outreach programs designed to make art accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds; and affordable studio space for up to 30 Bay Area artists. The art center has three exhibition spaces: Main Gallery - exhibitions by established and emerging California artists West Wing Gallery - Art Guild of Pacifica exhibitions and juried shows East Wing Gallery - community and multicultural exhibitions by Bay Area organizations, children and juried show award winners Gallery hours are Friday - Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m., except opening Fridays and between exhibitions. Office Hours are Tuesday - Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m. (650) ; 1220-B Linda Mar Bvd., Pacifica, CA info@sanchezartcenter.org Art Guild of Pacifica The Art Guild of Pacifica is a non-profit membership organization that has been promoting visual art in the community for over 50 years. Membership has grown to over 200 and includes a collection of painters, sculptors, photographers, printmakers, and artists working in glass, ceramics, fabric and so much more. The Art Guild of Pacifica strives to be accessible to the public, offering very affordable membership and exhibition fees along with free admission to shows and opening receptions. Art Talks occur several times a year, allowing people a chance to listen and interact with exhibiting artists and curators. Home base is at the Sanchez Art Center where our members exhibit their artwork several times a year in the West Gallery. Once a year the Art Center is taken over for a Membership Exhibition showing a wide range of dynamic artwork. The West Gallery is open Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is located at 1220 Linda Mar Blvd. inside the Sanchez Art Center. For more information including upcoming exhibitions visit our website ENTERTAINMENT

24 Recreation Pacifica offers a wealth of outdoor activities to suit all ages and interests. Enjoy the beautiful scenery Pacifica has to offer while out and about. Surfing Photo by Sharron L. Walker RECREATION Pacifica is home to some of the San Francisco Bay area s best surfing beaches. Linda Mar State Beach is one of the most popular beginner surfing spots in the San Francisco area. Linda Mar is a mile-long stretch of beach just north of Pedro Point. It s very picturesque and somewhat protected from the wind. The break here is usually fairly forgiving, and on a nice weekend, the beach can attract a fair number of novice surfers. However, Linda Mar can also produce a fun and challenging wave with a bigger swell. The outer peaks tend to be the best shaped and often produce the longest rides. Best Boards: Longboard and Funshape. Rockaway Beach and Sharp Park Beach are not for the beginner surfer. These two beaches are considered advanced surfing beaches due to their strong rips and big swells. Pacifica has surf shops on Crespi Bvd. and Pedro Point where the surfer can find wetsuits, surfboard rentals and surfing lessons. Photo by Scott Leslie

25 Swimming Photo by Scott Leslie The Jean E Brink Swimming Pool (located at Oceana High School) is a 10 lane, 25-yard indoor pool, open year-round. The City of Pacifica, Parks Beaches & Recreation Department is the primary user of the pool and offers a wide array of aquatic programs for participants. The pool boasts a 1-meter and a 3-meter diving boards. Depth ranges from 3 feet to 12 feet. Pool temperature is maintained at 82 degrees. Dressing rooms include lockers; however, participants must provide their own locks and towels. (650) ; 401 Paloma, Pacifica, CA Fishing and Crabbing Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber During a fiveweek period from the last week of June into the first week of August, some of the best fishing in the United States can be had in the inshore waters off Pacifica. The rocky coast is made up of a series of small bays where salmon are the most sought-after catch. A dramatic example of the abundance of salmon occurred in July 1995 when 300 salmon were caught within a few hours one day, 600 the next day and more than 1,000 the following day. This amazing phenomenon continued for five days, attracting hordes of anglers, who crowded the 1,140 foot Pacifica Pier. The salmon run continued in peaks and valleys through that August. RECREATION

26 RECREATION In addition to the salmon, striped bass often frequent the surf, with kingfish, sharks and perch also common. Although rare, sturgeon, barracuda and bonito have also been caught here; even a 60-pound white sea bass was landed. Pacifica Pier offers the only pier in the Bay Area where you can crab for free. During the winter Dungeness crab, not available elsewhere in the Bay Area, are abundant off the pier; in the spring, catch perch at Linda Mar Bay; in the fall, go rock fishing off Pedro Point. Unfortunately, there are no public boat ramps in Pacifica. Some hardy souls hand-launch small boats through the surf at the southern end of Linda Mar Bay; however, take extreme caution if you decide to launch that way. Pacifica has four bait and tackle shops located on Francisco Blvd., Palmetto Ave. and at the Pacifica Pier. No license is required at the pier. Pacifica Pier is located in Sharp Park with access two blocks west of the Pacific Coast Highway. The Pier is open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Please note, the pier closes during rough weather.) Check the A-Z index for more information about businesses that can help you with your fishing needs. Scuba Diving and Spear Fishing Linda Mar Beach is an intermediate-to-advanced beach entry scuba-dive site where you can encounter a diverse aquatic life, such as seals, fish and rays. In May and June, the halibut come into Linda Mar Bay and you will see many divers spearfishing for this prize fish. At Pedro Point, two wrecks lie on the ocean s Photo by Penny Keating bottom in approximately 30 to 40 feet of water. In 1906, the Drumburton, a 266-foot, 4-mast sail cargo ship, hit the rocks at Pedro Point due to thick fog and high waves. Just four years later, in August 1910, the James Rolph, a 169-foot, 4-mast schooner cargo ship was swept by current into the rocks and went down at the same spot as the Drumburton. Remnants of these two ships still remain on the ocean floor; however, the swim to the location and back makes this a difficult dive.

27 Conditions can be unpredictable and it is best to dive the southern part of Linda Mar Beach during calm, flat conditions. Visibility averages 5 to 20 feet most of the year, with 40-feet visibility on a great day. Water temperatures average in the mid-50 degrees, year-round, so a full 7-8 mil wetsuit with hood, boots and gloves are needed to ensure a warm and safe dive. Pacifica has one diving store, located on Oceana Blvd., offering full scuba equipment rentals and air fills. Scuba enthusiasts should check the A-Z index for businesses to service their scuba needs. Sharp Park Golf Course Sharp Park Golf Course and Restaurant is just off the Pacific Coast Highway at the intersection of Sharp Park Road and Francisco Bvd. The famous golf architect, Alister Mackenzie, designed the Sharp Park Golf Course. He was also responsible for the Augusta National Golf Course in Georgia, where the Masters Tournament is played. It is an 18- hole public golf course and is quite affordable. Par is 72 for men and 74 Photo courtesy Pacifica Chamber for women. Total course yardage is approximately 6,200. The historic clubhouse, built in 1932, houses the Starter/golf area, lounge, large main dining room and a private dining room. Golf: (650) ; Restaurant: (650) Sharp Park Road at Francisco Bvd., Pacifica, CA Pacifica Tennis Club There are public Tennis Courts available at the Oceana High School. The Pacifica Tennis Club is a community-based club for members of all ages, regardless of where you live. PTC hosts a monthly club play day, several inter-club challenges, various social activities, and many USTA league teams. PTC usually plays RECREATION

28 at the Terra Nova High School tennis courts, however these courts are currently closed and will not re-open until mid In the interim the Pacifica Tennis Club will be using the tennis courts at Skyline College as their home courts Terra Nova Bvd., Pacifica, CA RECREATION Biking Pacifica is especially known in the bike community for its network of trails that overlook the Pacific Ocean. Follow the steps of 18 th century Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portol, and ride up the steep Sweeney Ridge Trail, first to a 20 th century abandoned missile site and then on to where Portol and his men first sighted San Francisco Bay. You might strongly consider starting this ride in the parking lot of Linda Mar State Beach and ride the 2.5-mile paved bike path north along the beach and bluffs until it ends at Pacifica Coast Highway One. The driveway leading up to the trailhead in the Shelldance Nursery parking lot is a little obscure. Whether riding or driving, look for large, colorful signs declaring ORCHIDS from the Pacific Coast Highway One. Once you get up to the large gravel parking lot, however, you ll see a large Golden Gate National Recreation Area sign in the northwest corner announcing the area as Sweeney Ridge. Your legs will thank you for warming them up before the steep climb up Sweeney Ridge Trail, and you ll also get a chance to experience more of Pacifica. There are two bike rental shops in Pacifica: one located on Francisco Blvd. and the other in Park Mall on Terra Nova Blvd. For specific information about businesses related to Biking, please refer to the A-Z index. Bowling Across from Rockaway Beach, bowling enthusiasts will find a beautiful modern bowling alley on the Pacific Coast Highway which has 32 lanes that are sure to please bowlers of any age or skill level. There are competitive leagues or recreational play available. If you are looking for specific information about businesses related to Bowling, the A-Z index will help you out.

29 Skateboarding Pacifica Skate Park This popular park provides a free place to skateboard every day and hosts a skate competition every summer. Opened in 2005, the Pacifica Skate Park is perfect for skaters young and old. Internationally renowned skateboarder Tony Hawk was a consultant on the park. The setting is beautiful with views of the Pacific Ocean. Parking at the community center is ample except on beautiful sunny days when the surfing crowd swells. All skaters, regardless of age, are required to wear helmets, kneepads and elbow pads at all Photo by Scott Leslie times. The park has a cement street course and half pipes. The park is drug, alcohol, smoke and profanity free. No entry when gates are locked or before opening or after closing. Pacifica has two skateboarding stores, one on Crespi drive and the other on Pedro Point. Please check the A-Z index for skateboarding related businesses. Hours of operation: Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-sunset, Sun 10:30 a.m.- sunset. Parking & Directions: From the Pacific Coast Hwy, turn east on Crespi Drive (located behind the Pacifica Community Center). (650) ; 540 Crespi Dr., Pacifica California San Francisco Archers San Francisco Archers is a nonprofit organization that promotes archery at all levels of ability and age. Volunteer officers elected annually by the membership run the club. San Francisco Archers has over 170 active members. The Club is open to the public every day. There is a fee for nonmembers, adults are $5.00 and children under 13 are admitted free of charge. SF Archers offers an Archery Outreach Program the first and third Sunday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. This RECREATION

30 is a free program. San Francisco Archers is located in Pacifica. (650) ; Lundy Wy. & Rifle Range Rd., Pacifica, CA Horseback Riding Horseback riding is a fun way to be outside and enjoy the scenery around you. There are several horse trails around the foothills and mountains of Pacifica. Several private ranches and horse parks allow for the riding of horses in the Pacifica area. In San Mateo County, horse riding is allowed in The Crystal Springs Reservoir. There are two horse-riding trails: The San Andreas Trail and the Sawyer Camp Recreation Trail. Both are wide, flat, paved trails winding around the eastern shore of the Crystal Springs Reservoir. A public riding stable is located in Park Pacifica. Segway The many well-maintained and level trails along our beautiful beaches lend themselves to Segway rides. There are many beautiful trails and paths to explore on your Segway. Begin your ride at Rockaway Beach and the trail takes you through a rock quarry to climb up 12 scenic switchbacks over Pacifica s Strawberry Hill to Linda Mar Beach and beyond. Along the way, you enjoy spectacular views, beautiful wildflowers, historic sites, and you can watch some of the world s best surfers. You experience a variety of terrains and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. You may even see whales, seals and seabirds in season. There is a Segway business located in Rockaway Beach. RECREATION Photo by Jim Heldberg