This is less of a park and more of hiking/waking trails but there are a few picnic benches in the parking lot that overlook the ocean. There's a decent amount of parking in the lot, much better space than nearby Thornton Beach and parking along the street coming in. I like this hike because it's not too long or not too short. The ocean is always in the background and it's a nice ocean walk without having to get sand in your shoes from the beach. I think there is a technical way to get down to the beach, but you have to climb down numerous rocks, and it didn't seem the safest. The southernmost end where you are at the actual Mussel Rock seemed a bit easier and there was a cool looking beach cave, but this would only be possible to get there in low tide. The walk is a little over 2 miles. If I wanted to go for a walk along a beach or go on a serious hike there are better places in Pacifica for that but I like it here to just get out for a walk and see the ocean. read more

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Wow - finding places like this really inspire me to find new trails and hikes in the Bay Area The views along the coastal bluffs were just so breathtaking . The trails are family friendly - mild incline, wide and safe. That being said , we had a blast climbing down the rocky cliff to go down to the small beach . I'm not an expert on tides and sea life - but when we went there were just shelves and shelves of mussels that people were picking into buckets . We also saw tons of juicy sea anemones . Another stranger showed us all the crabs he had fished out ! Super fun spot for a lovely beautiful easy (but possibly chilly) walk or adventure on the mini beach ! Dog friendly ! read more

Mussel Rock Park - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

We arrived around 10:30 AM on a beautiful Saturday morning to make sure we could find parking and I'm glad we did. It was our first time visiting, and instead of parking in the main lot, we found a spot just outside of it, near an alternate entrance by Mussel Rock. Honestly, some of the best views were from that side, especially near the second entrance. The walk down to the beach is short and mostly flat, making it an easy stroll. Once you reach the beach level, if you follow the path south, it eventually leads to a tunnel through the rock wall. There was a fence at the end of the trail, but no signs saying you couldn't continue. We carefully made our way down some of the rocks were slippery, so we took it slow. Overall, it's a beautiful and scenic spot with just a touch of adventure. The only real incline is the walk back up to the parking area, but even that isn't too tough. Great little escape with stunning views....worth the visit! read more

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Nice park, fairly easy trails. Can get quite windy. High tide brings huge waves crashing up against the rocks, which is kinda cool. We will return at low tide another time to see if we can walk through the little tunnel as you walk south along the trail closest to the ocean. Nice place, beautiful views. read more

Mussel Rock Park - Mussel rock - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

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Had a lovely stroll at Mussel Rock park. Just a short drive from SF, with plenty of parking. However, I would suggest going early because the parking was quite full when we left before lunch. The stroll was mainly by the shore where you'll find some huge rock formations. When we visited it was high tide. However, I've see some photos of people walking through some of the rock formations when the tide is low. Worth doing if you're into photography. There's also lots of wild life, sea gulls and other birds on the rocks below. A great place to walk the dog and I'm surprised during my stroll that there were not many people about. The area is limited as you walk along the shore for 20 mins, you'll find it is blocked. A lovely area to escape the city and enjoy the sea breeze. read more

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I randomly came here one Saturday while I was in San Francisco. I got a cheesesteak sandwich from The Cheesesteak Shop, and I parked here to enjoy my sandwich. Then I walked around Mussel Rock Park. I wanted to go down to the beach, and there was this interesting makeshift "stairs" to get down there. It was definitely kinda of scary, but still thrilling nonetheless. I'm always up for an adventure so why not. Hahaha.. I enjoyed my time down at the beach as I'm walking and skipping on the sand and felt the waves splashing into me. I felt like the little mermaid, and it was blissful tranquility. :) I would come back again the next time I'm in the area. read more

Open space, coyotes, views of the ocean fog permitting. Easy parking and a great place to escape east bay heat wave. It was too hot in Hayward for Sweets to go outside so we journeyed over to Daily Sh itty. Always foggy, always cool. This city and Pacifica are the best places when we have those summer days where pups are sensitive to 85+ degrees. Cant sit at home play video games all the time. Beautiful views here fog permitting. The thick dense fog allowed for no views of nothing. Sweets didn't like that. He didn't like that at all. I assured him that there was an ocean right there and I pointed. He wasn't having it. More interested in sniffing some sock some knucklehead left behind. I wasn't going to let him sniff that though.... who knows whos foot that was on. Who knows.... Watch out for coyotes!! There are big warning signs. They like to snatch up wrinkly cute dogs and little toddlers - so keep them close. Back in Hayward it was 95 - and cross the bridge and it was 65 just 30 minutes later. It is really shocking how the micro climates work. Get some dessert cheesecake at the mall light and floffy. Thats how I like it. read more

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I moved a few years ago near this area and I love it here. everyday we get a view of the beautiful vast ocean, and amazing sunsets from our bedroom window! A big plus is watching all the paragliders above the ocean, and all the whales passing through. It really is amazing. We love to walk around there and the cliff views are just breathtaking, like you're in Big Sur or something. I also see hawks fly around near our house, and coyotes howling at night, signs that there is still some wildlife so we better protect the environment. I'm lucky it's just in my neighborhood. I want to gatekeep this area, but it is too beautiful not to share. read more

This park is absolutely mazing! you all need to come and check it out for yourself! THe views to the tranquility to the peacefulness. everything is just stunning! we were able sit at the top and enjoy the view from there. WE also got a tan since the sun was out and got a fulll shorts tan lol. WE were able to chilll and enjoy the waves hitting the rocks and watch the sunset. GOTTA come and see what I'm talking about as this place is so peaceful! read more

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I know Fort Funston to the north and I know Mori Point to the south, but I had no idea this windswept place existed in the middle squeezed between Pacifica and Daly City. There lies this unexpected coastal open space. Geologically it's quite significant because it's where the fabled San Andreas Fault meets the Pacific, and historically, it also represents the epicenter of the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. It's just that as an attraction, it felt like it was well off the beaten path. That's because I felt like I was immersed in a suburban residential neighborhood before stumbling my way to the nondescript entrance. Once there, I found it visually striking with all the steep cliffs, crashing waves, colorful ice plants, unusual rock formations, and short hiking paths. Little did I know that fault lines were the reason for the dramatic landscape. It bore a resemblance to Fort Funston but more contained in area and of course, there was the unique sight of the three-story-high, 50-million-year-old Mussel Rock. RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU read more

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Definitely not scenic. Boring whales, dolphins, seals & pelicans. Ridiculously mediocre sunsets. Non-climatic hiking thru dull rolling green hillsides scattered with meh flowers. A cave tunnel thru the rock? Yawn. Come on California, where's the beauty at? Definitely do not recommend. (Literally one of the most magical places on earth, don't let the locals know I told ya.) read more

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I can't reiterate how much I absolutely love coming here! After a week of a ton of rain and being inside, getting some fresh air and listening to the waves crash was definitely needed! Mussel Rock has been my go-to spot to catch a sunset and afternoon walk with my dog Mila. If I had to guess, she'd also give this hike 5-stars because in terms of wanting to stop and smell everything, it's like sensory overload for her here. plenty of dogs are on this hike, and I end up walking around a little less than 2 miles every time I visit. If you are looking to avoid the crowd, go on the weekdays. What's great is that if you want watch, the views from the Parking lot are amazing, which means you don't even have to walk far. Most recently, I even went at night during a full moon, only a couple other cars out there, so serene and quiet. Packed a blanket and pillow and just gazed at the stars from the back of the pickup. As for the sunset, I don't know a better spot to go on clear day. The amount of colors and just natural beauty that can be experienced here is what keeps me coming back on the regular. Being able to see the sun reflect on the Pacific, hearing the soothing sound of wave crashes, makes this the hidden gem of the Peninsula. 10/10 checking this spot out, just check the weather report to make sure that clear skies are in the forecast. read more

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the scenery was so nice . we came around 12 and it was perfect weather. not crowded at all and the drive was nice. read more

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Really like Mussel Rock Park. 6 minutes from home to an easy stroll through the former landfill. Nice ocean views, beach stroll, and watching the plethora of paragliders. While the parking lot does sometimes fill, thecwalking paths are never crowded. Give it a go! read more

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One of my favorite hiking spots in the Bay! It's an easy, dog-friendly (on leash) hike with coastal views, wildflowers, and an option to walk along the beach. Trail is roughly 2 miles, mostly flat with some hills. Very clean and well-maintained. Recommend wearing layers due to the mild/cool and oftentimes overcast weather. Come early on weekends to avoid the crowd. Parking: Huge lot at trail head read more

Mussel Rock Park - Dog-friendly hike (must be on leash) - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

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One of the most underrated places in the San Francisco area! How did I not find this place sooner? Came on a beautiful weekday morning and the views are absolutely stunning (ocean and rocky terrain is a beautiful combo). The way the water crashes into the rocks creating a million natural waterfalls, I love it! Also the hike is not bad at all and stretches quite far in the park. Favorite part was that there was literally nobody there. For the 1.5 hours we were there, we maybe encountered at maximum 3 people. It felt like the entire coastline was ours. Great place if you're looking to social distance too! read more

Mussel Rock Park - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

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I finally got a chance to visit Mussel Rock Park on a Saturday evening and wow, wow, WOW!! This place is gorgeous. Its still a hidden gem, (and I hope it stays that way) because it was not packed at all. Easy for taking a nice stroll or a peaceful walk in this small piece of paradise. If you stay on the trails you'll be surrounded by beautiful plant life and clear water from the coastal views. Everyone that was there kept to themselves so the small interactions made everyone pretty friendly. You will find all kinds of folks here for different reasons. Whether it's the joggers, folks parasailing or just hanging out enjoying the nice weather. However, Please be aware that there are coyotes that live here and will walk around as the sun sets. I actually saved a young ladies dog. Cause a coyotes started running up behind them and she had no clue u til I yelled out for her. Thankfully that scared the coyote off but could you imagine what would've happened had I not turned around and saw what could've occurred? So if you have any small pets, PLEASE be aware at all times and keep your pets close to you. I loved this place and will go back, normally I would recommend folks to come and visit. But for selfish reasons I'll say stay away...this place should stay for the locals. Lol read more

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I must say this spot is underrated! Why are their not more reviews of it on yelp? It's a very scenic spot, great for a short stroll (but not very accessible for people of all mobility because of the potholes). I saw a lot of para-gliders about to launch off the cliffs. A chilly place a majority of the year, wear extra layers if you remember but you'll be ok for the most part... I saw quite a few people cruising along in the wind with their gliders with a lot of wind support. I feel coast- living when I am here. read more

Mussel Rock Park - Seacliff - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

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I love to take my dogs to this park because of the views and great trails with changing elevations. I do not like when other dog owners allow their dogs to run off leash. There is a leash law in the state of California and that extends to state parks. I will begin to notify authorities when dogs are off leash at this park. You are notified. read more

Mussel Rock Park - Duke and Nico at Mussell Rock Park - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

I may have went through the wrong entrance because this one took me to a very long and steep path...the walk back up was very brutal. I also didn't make it to the beach the a view at the top. Will try again next time. But looks like a nice place to be read more

Mussel Rock Park - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

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Nice option for a short, nearby hike! This was only a 15-minute drive away, and don't have to deal with any Pacifica traffic since it's just north of Pacifica in Daly City. There was tons of parking at 11:00 a.m. on a Sunday, and it is a big paragliding spot which was fun to watch. As we were leaving around 1pm, a paragliding meetup was happening and the parking lot was much more full. There weren't a lot a lot of trails - we only did maybe a mile. There isn't good beach access either, technically the access to the beach is closed, but you could probably get around it. We mostly saw fishermen on that beach, so it was pretty isolated. It's very windy and cold on the trails - much more so than the parking lot. I decided to leave my puffy jacket in the car, but regretted it once we left the parking lot. We also had our kite in the car, but I wish we had brought it. read more

Years ago- This entrance once led to the local dump as I recall... advantage. Paved parking, clear signs, well maintained road. Take some time here- there are Views, Ocean, Many trails, and history. Plus-- Hang Gliders!! Park and then walk through the gates towards the ocean! WOW!! All kinds of things going on here! There is a launch pad for hang-gliders here. We saw about a dozen setting up to fly. This is fascinating- kids & adults even babies... will want to watch- the preparations, checking the wind, unfurling the hang glider, getting into the harness and running forward... being picked up by the wind and ...FLYING! The trails are fun, loads of geology to look at, folded swirled sandstone and conglomerates here. A whole group of home clinging into the cliffs on the brink of losing the battle with gravity and erosion. When the trails are wet, you must have shoes with traction to get up to the top. Please- watch your kids - keep them off the trail edges, pay attention, there are cliffs and sliding soil. read more

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I'm flexing the mussels, in my mind that is, at Mussel Rock Beach Park in the town of Pacifica, California. Talk about a hidden gem that's right off the coast of the Golden State. Turns out this beach's biggest claim to fame is that it's a well-known paradise for paragliders and hang gliders alike, thanks to a plethora of lower tiered cliffs and bluffs that seemingly have their own built-in landing and launching pads, which is also great for hikers and dog walkers for looking out onto the Pacific Ocean. I had never even heard of Mussel Rock Beach Park until a friend suggested we head out there as during this time of sheltering, we were looking for interesting places to hike and enjoy a beachside lunch, and they suggested we go here on a weekend afternoon. Driving out here is really easy as all you have to do is take the Manor Drive exit off of the Cabrillo Highway, otherwise known as Highway 1, during this time the parking lot that serves as the main parking lot for Mussel Rock Park was closed during this time, so only local street parking was allowed and as we drove there was some street parking along Skyline Drive along a residential area. It wasn't ideal, especially for local residents, but we were thankful that we managed to get so lucky this day. After parking we managed to walk about a mile and a half along Westline Drive which then leads you past the aforementioned closed parking lot and then along a man made trail which will eventually leads hikers and bikers to the beach which featured numerous smoky black rocks and sand. Once we got to the beach part of the trail, it was a walk down a makeshift flight of rocks with huge tree branches that serve as railings. Then it was more walking, this time on the sandy and wet beach and after a couple more miles, we managed to find a dry spot to enjoy our picnic. It was cloudy and foggy the day on we went and the waves were crashing on the beach rather wildly. which made finding spot slightly challenging but not impossible. The weather, as we sat there was wasn't cold at all it almost felt warm out there thanks to the huge cliffs that were blocking the air from blowing past us. There was some shifting wind down on the beach that we thought was perfect for kite-flying, but it turned out it was nothing remarkable that allowed us to get a stiff wind and our kites airborne. So after our picnic, we decided to head back to where our car was parked, and we took one of the lower level trails to get back to where we originally came from. As we walked we discovered a manmade overlook that even had a small bench. Here we tried flying our kites and we noticed a lot more paragliders flying above us overhead, which was really cool as we attempted to fly our kites along side them. Then we walked a little further south and discovered the Mussel Rocks that give the beach it's namesake and a small cave that was carved into the side of the cliff that was perfect for picture taking. Be forewarned not only was their parking lot closed during this time, but I didn't notice restrooms for the public to use. If any beachside park reminds me that of the cliffs of the British Isles then it's hands down the cliffs and moors that make up Mussel Rock Beach Park. Honestly you won't see anything like the natural vistas with the cliff views, sparkling sand, and adventurous paragliders high overhead anywhere else in the Bay Area. Only in Pacifica can you experience a beachside hike like this, and I bet in Pacifica they are glad that it remains such a local hidden gem where the mussels are no doubt in the water, and no doubt the arms of the adventure loving people gliding in the sky above. read more

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What a gem. It's a pretty small area, but incredibly picturesque. The walk to the beach from the parking lot is flat and short and there's just a short, but steep and rocky climb down to the beach. Just watch your step! Be sure to stop and read the signs on the significance of the area's history. It's pretty interesting! My favorite part of our visit was going to the unfinished tunnel (south of Mussel Rock) and spotting a huge pod of dolphins! They were super close to shore. We also got to watch a paraglider practice by the water. read more

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Great views of the coast; strong winds & big waves. The hike to the beach is easy and straightforward. You do need to scramble down a man-made rock/boulders trail. Hold tight to rope because it can get unsteady. The beach walk has some nice rocks to observe. Walked about 2miles before heading back to trailhead. Very dog-friendly. Some construction going on so not all trails open (as of Jan 9 2022). read more

I grew up in Pacifica, so this place holds a very special place in my heart. I used to go fishing with my dad down at the beach when I was 5, I watched numerous whale migrations with my friends and loved ones, I even have picnics up on the hill and admire the ocean on a sunny cold day. This place still brings me comfort despite living in the East Bay. For 10 years, my husband and I would always make it a point to watch the sunset here a few times a year. We even watched the sunset here after we got married at city hall. I really do love this place, but lots of people are coming here more often. So, whoever is reading this, please bring out what you bring in and pick up after yourself. Keep this place clean for other generations to admire. read more

We went on a Saturday afternoon so parking was a bit difficult which was expected. We had to park near the residential area and walk a bit, but I didn't mind because the views were just breathtakingly beautiful! There were also a lot of people paragliding which was so cool to see. There's also plenty of short trails to take and space to social distance. We thought we were gonna spend only 30 minutes here, but we ended up staying for an hour and a half. We couldn't help but admire the views and take pictures. The trails were clean for the most part. I just wish they had more trash cans throughout to encourage people to not to litter. Other than that, I love this place and I can't wait to come back! read more

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Hidden Gem! Such a great place to park and watch the sunset. You can also walk down to the beach and there are a couple ways to get down there. Dogs are welcome and the views/pictures you will see and get are amazing. Hint- Also have seen so many whales around here Beware- Have also seen several coyotes. So make sure your furry friends are safe. read more

Mussel Rock Park - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

Definitely a neighborhood gem! Only thing missing is a bathroom but given that the area is pretty small and tucked away in a neighborhood, I guess that's understandable. Sunsets are amazing here. Trails are somewhat graveled with some steepness. You can hike up to some higher trails for a better view. There's also beach access if you want to stroll along the shore -- not the best for sunbathing though -- there are lots of flies hanging around the dead krill that's washed up. Cell service can also drop in certain parts and be nonexistent. If you double back on some trails, you can easily enjoy 5 miles here. Please be sure to pick up your trash and dog poo so the rest of us can enjoy an untainted nature experience. read more

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Nice park with plenty of trails to explore along the bluffs and beach. Seems to be a popular place for dog walkers and paragliding. There's also a beach that seems to be a nice to go to if you want to avoid the crowds more towards the north. If you're just coming to walk, you can easily spend about 1-2 hours. Trails are not too challenging, but there are plenty of loose rocks so would recommend shoes with grip. You get nice views of the ocean. Apparently, it's become a popular place for coyotes especially at night so be careful if you let your dogs off the leash. read more

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Visited Mussel Rock Beach Park with my husband for the first time this past weekend because we needed something to pass the time while we waited to pick someone up from SFO. There were not too many people at the beach itself, which was nice. We walked the trails that led toward the beach area and enjoyed the fresh breeze/air. The trails had a nice view of the ocean, mussel rock, and a small cave/cove area (which you will find towards one end of the trail opposite the beach front). Regardless of where you are on the trail, you'll be able to get a good vantage point if you're trying to catch a view of the sunset. The beach is dog-friendly, but there are signs to beware of coyotes. Because the beach wasn't crowded, parking wasn't too difficult to get in the parking area. There were cars parked along the street leading to the beach entrance though. Regardless, parking is free which is always a plus. read more

This is one of my favorite areas to go hiking or for a nature walk in Daly City. It's dog friendly, but beware for coyotes because they are known to attack dogs. They won't do anything to people though! The park has a couple of short upper trails that give you a great view of the ocean. Below, you have two lower trails that take you to either side of the cliffs. On one side, you have a medium-small sized beach that you'll have to climb down some rocks to get to. The other side is a small cove that has an even smaller beach area. There's a little cave there too. You will need to climb down here as well. Be careful on this side - when it's a higher tide it's a little dangerous because the waves get pretty high and cover the beach area entirely. On the path to the lower trail, there's a very small seating area someone build, which is like a little wooden box. You can comfortably fit around 4 people there, and it has a great ocean view. Overall great place to spend some quality time outdoors by yourself, with friends or family, or your little furry friends! read more

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Truly a Hidden Gem! Walked down to the beach many times. Have seen so many whales around here Beware- Have also seen several coyotes. So make sure your furry friends are safe. Also great place to see people paragliding. read more

Muscle Rock is an beautiful park located just south of San Francisco. It's actually an old city dump site which has been converted into a park. The day we visited here there was a lot of construction going on but the views of the ocean and cliffs were absolutely breathtaking. read more

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I once wrote a raving 4-star review on Thornton State Beach . . . only to find out I wasn't at Thornton State Beach. I didn't know where I was, I just knew you get off of 1 at Manor Drive, go north, and pretty soon you're at an undeveloped wonderland that has not been overrun by either tourists or locals. Actually, you may be able to count the number of other people on two hands at the most. Welcome to the dump. I'm actually not kidding. The city dump is next door, and it looks like this was once a landfill. After what happened at Love Canal at Niagara Falls NY, and after Thornton CA was buried by a landslide 60 years ago, this plot of land will never have houses or shopping centers put on it, So it's beachfront property for all of us to enjoy. The first few times I went here, several of the trails were treacherous: rocky, sudden drops. There is now a trail wide enough to drive a Chevy truck down. When you get halfway down, you see a beautiful beach. Pretty flowers. From the signs I read and the wind I felt, this appears to be a popular place for paragliders if they get tired of Fort Funston. And bring the dog; off leash? Yet when you look at the cliffs to the right, you see the houses hanging on there, so you're not that far from civilization. It's a change of pace from the usual scene. read more

Mussel Rock Park - sea daisies - Beaches Near Me - Daly City, California

Quiet place to go for a walk. Lots of parking and trails. There are picnic tables if you want to come and sit and watch the waves. There are lots of trails, some lead to nowhere and some are steep to walk up. There is a beach but can not get to it because of the steep rocks. read more

Regrets. For advance athletic people only. Those hills took out my whole family...including the dog. Attempt at your own risk.

This is a great spot for sunsets (when the fog is not around), watching a few birds and in a good year WHALES! Short hikes and fishing are here too though I have not fished here. A bathroom would be a nice addition and if some folks could please keep their radios down that would be great too. read more

I have very fond memories of coming here to Mussel Rock Beach throughout my youth. Having lived just a few blocks away when I was a kid, this was the spot for hikes, fishing, or just finding a quiet place to be alone. The parking lot above has recently been repaved and has plenty of places to park. On a really nice non-foggy Daly City/Pacifica day, the view from the top is gorgeous! Great place to watch the sunrise or sunset. The hike down to the beach can be a bit long and some routes can be harder than others. I recommend comfortable shoes for the walk down to the beach. Overall, great place to visit if in the area! read more

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This is one of Daly City's beautiful gems! Mussel Rock Beach Park's paths may be rather rocky at times, but even from the small parking lot, there are some unbelieveable and gorgeous views of the beach and the bay. There are people who walk their dogs but it's recommended that they be leashed at all times. If you're looking to get onto the beach itself, then you'll need to pass a sign that says "Danger, Unstable Cliffs, Do Not Enter". Not that I'd recommend you do that, but I have seen a few individuals actually climb up and down the rocks to get to that point. read more

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