Linda Mar is located at the southern end of Pacifica directly across from Linda Mar State Beach. That particular beach is home to the world famous Taco Bell. :)
Linda Mar is located in southern Pacifica. Its westside boarders Linda Mar State Beach, while the eastern boarder is the charming San Pedro Valley Park. Picnic benches, volleyball nets, and public restrooms are located at the front. The park's hiking trails are attainable for most skill levels. The two-mile paved portion will take you past a grassy field. Then across a bridge and to the roundabout where there are benches to take a break.
The ranch-style homes were built in the 1950s and 60s. There are four or so floor plans. They all initially had the same features. Three bedrooms. One or two bathrooms. Fireplace. Two-car garage. Hardwood floors were an option, however, most do have Oak floors. The standard lot sizes are 5,000 square feet. Over the years they have been modified in a variety of ways to add bedrooms, bathrooms, even a second floor.
There are a few parcels with newer construction. San Pedro Valley School was replaced with homes in the 1980s. The townhomes on Rosita Road were built in the 1970s.
Linda Mar Shopping Center is located right along Highway 1 at the south end of Pacifica, just before the Devil's Slide Tunnel.
It's anchored by a large Safeway with flower department, bakery, deli, and Starbucks. The Sunrise Cafe is a family-owned restaurant reminiscent of days past when it was Kerri's Coffee Shop. Kerri's sponsored our softball team. It was always great fun to go in after a game to have lunch or a milkshake. The counter is still there where you can have hearty breakfasts and lunches. The food is always good and the staff is always friendly.
More familiar names like Panda Express, Starbucks, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Round Table, Cold Stone Creamery, and Wing Stop are also located there.
Further east on Linda Mar Boulevard you'll find a small strip of shops locally known as The Dairy. The small liquor store is where you can get quick snacks, drinks, and, of course, Scratchers and Lotto tickets. Luigi's is a favorite Italian restaurant. Beach Monkey Cafe serves delicious Acai bowls. Directly across the street is Linda Mar Veterinary Hospital where they've cared for my four-legged family members over the years.
Linda Mar State Beach
Linda Mar is a long and spacious shoreside suited for just about any beach activity. The waves are often small making it a great place to take surf lessons with one of the local schools. There are showers and public restrooms. And, of course, one of the most famous Taco Bell Cantinas in the world. Back in the day, it was A&W, the best place to get a root beer float and hot dog. It's unique spot built directly on the sand with indoor and outdoor seating, and an outside walk-up counter. It also has a fireplace and a perfect ocean view.
The Pacifica Murals Project is a collective of artists whose mission is to build and strengthen community through art. The Four Directions - or medicine wheel - is a concept inspired by Native American Tribes.
Linda Mar is also home to The Community Center on Crespi which was renovated from a Pacific Bell office. Along side the center is a skateboard park. The neighborhood also includes a U-shaped outdoor mall with major names like Safeway, Starbucks, and Wing Stop. There are also small businesses like the Ivy Row retail clothing store and Nancyland Kids and Baby.
The Sanchez Adobe
East of the Linda Mar Shopping Center is the historical Sanchez Adobe. The adobe site has been home to many, including the Ohlone Indians and later, the home of the home of Francisco Sanchez. They have Rancho Day at Sanchez Adobe on the third Saturday of September. It's a fun festival for everyone where they make bread and crafts onsite, live music, and dancing. Docents are available to explain the history and take you through the property.
Sanchez Art Center
In 1996, Sanchez Elementary School was an abandoned building that was repurposed by a group of artists, volunteers and locals. It was converted into the Sanchez Art Center with cooperation of the City of Pacifica
In 1998, with a neighborhood grant from the Peninsula Community Foundation, a team of local artists, youth, and family members completed Pacifica's first large-scale mural, containing images that celebrate community spirit and commitment to diversity.
In 2000, the Mary Harris Arts Education Room was established for art classes and summer art camps. They celebrated 20th anniversary throughout 2017–2018.
The former assembly space, Mildred C. Owen Concert Hall, houses Pacifica Performances. There are regularly scheduled events featuring a wide variety of music.
San Pedro Valley Park
The park is one of my favorite places to hike. Many trails snake up and down the mountainsides for miles. There's also a two-mile walking path that meanders through a grassy field, over a wood bridge, and ends at a turn-around with benches to take a rest. You'll always see plenty of wildlife. The most common are bunnies, birds, and quail. Deer are usually standing nearby not disturbed by your nearby steps. I've also seen bobcats hunting in that flat grassy area. It's home to mountain lions who are known to watch hikers from behind the bushes. A scary thought! But a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic, hike or special presentation at the visitors' center.
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