Pacifica Pier facts for kids
Pacifica Pier
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| Official name | Rev. Herschell Harkins Memorial Pacifica Pier |
|---|---|
| Type | Fishing Pier |
| Spans | Pacific Ocean |
| Locale | Pacifica, California |
| Maintained by | City of Pacifica |
| Design | Concrete |
| Total length | 0.25 miles (400 m) |
| Opening date | 1973 |
| Toll | Open to the Public |
| Coordinates | 37°38′00″N 122°29′39″W / 37.6333°N 122.4943°W |
The Pacifica Pier is a popular fishing pier located in Pacifica. This L-shaped pier reaches out into the Pacific Ocean for a quarter of a mile. It is officially known as the Rev. Herschell Harkins Memorial Pacifica Pier. It's a fantastic place for fishing and enjoying the beautiful ocean views!
History of Pacifica Pier
The Pacifica Pier was built in 1973. Its first job was actually part of Pacifica's sewer system. It held a large pipe that carried treated wastewater a quarter of a mile offshore into the Pacific Ocean.
This system was updated in 2004 when a new water treatment facility was built. Since then, the pier has been mainly used for fun activities. Sometimes, the pier has to close for repairs or when the ocean waves are too big.
- The pier was built through teamwork between the City of Pacifica, the Wildlife Conservation Board, and the California Department of Fish and Game.
- Money for pier repairs sometimes comes from the state Coastal Conservancy.
- The City of Pacifica's Department of Parks, Beaches and Recreation helps manage the pier.
Fishing at Pacifica Pier
Since the pier no longer handles wastewater, its main purpose is now for fishing. It is especially famous for its amazing salmon runs. During these times, hundreds of Chinook Salmon can be caught in just one day!
When salmon are running, the pier becomes a very busy and exciting place. Anglers (people who fish) stand shoulder-to-shoulder, all hoping to catch a big fish.
Here are some of the main types of fish and crabs you can catch at the pier:
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Jacksmelt
Other Fun Activities
The Pacifica Pier is also a great spot to watch whales. You can often see them during their twice-a-year migrations. It's a wonderful place to enjoy nature and the ocean breeze!
