That's the Point!

Whale Watch at Mori Point in Pacifica

01.16.2020
Peninsula & South Bay
Hikes, Dog Friendly, Relaxing

Grab some small, portable lawn chairs, a thermos of hot cocoa, and binoculars, then head to the point: Mori Point in Pacifica is fantastic for winter whale watching. Part of the Golden Gate National Park system, Mori Point itself is an exposed promontory with stunning ocean views.

Hike and whale watch at Mori Point in Pacifica

To reach it you have two options—the up and up via Bootlegger’s Steps or the more gently sloping Coastal Trail Trail. Just be cautious when you reach the point; the cliffs are more than 100 feet high in places.

Linger to your heart’s delight, keeping your eyes on the horizon and scanning for grays. Strolling south leads to acres of open bluffs to explore.

BONUS: Pacifica’s Gorilla Barbeque is a glorious dedication to the fine art of grilling meat. Chances are good you’ll stand in line for 15 minutes before getting to the order counter, but it’s worth the wait!

Mori Point is located just off Hwy. 1 in Pacifica (map). Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman walking down the stairs overlooking the ocean on the Coastal Trail in San Francisco

    America's Best Urban Hike

    Long ago we dubbed it the “Grand Walk” and said it was one of the most scenic and stunning trails in the West. We were wrong. This is the most scenic urban hike in America!

    View

  2. Hike or Bike the Skyline

    A new section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail is open for biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the 12-mile (out-and-back) Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail.

    View
  3. Woman riding a bike on the the Vine Trail in Napa Valley

    Through the Grapevine

    Cycle California’s most famous wine valley on the car-free Vine Trail, an ambitious project going through the heart of Napa Valley. Park your car and ride 6 miles from Napa to Yountville for lunch.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Outback to the Future

    Some must-see destinations are written in the stars. Deep in Oregon's remote southern high desert lies the largest certified International Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet. With 2.5 million acres of protected dark skies, you get the best of the celestial out here in what's known as the Oregon Outback, including geothermal soaks and an incredible playa that's a hidden gem.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Extra-Celestial Central Oregon

    Some trips promise you the moon and the stars. And this one delivers in a big way, plus throws in some extra planets for your viewing pleasure. From Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters to Antelope Basecamp in the remote high desert.

    View

  3. Hollywood Endings

    Hollywood legends may seem larger than life, but we all have to kick the bucket at some point. Still, the Hollywood Forever cemetery keeps legends’ spirits alive among 62 acres of green lawns, palm trees, landscaped gardens, and large, reflecting pools.

    View