San Francisco is a special place, beautifully located on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Thanks to this fantastic location, the city is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in California. Whether you love long, sandy beaches perfect for a stroll or prefer narrow, rocky coves where the waves crash dramatically, there’s something for everyone. The variety makes it suitable for any mood whether you want to relax under the sun or admire the rugged beauty of the coast.
In today’s post, I’ve put together a list of my 5 favorite beaches in San Francisco, places I visit often when the weather is sunny and the air feels warm. Each of these spots offers a unique experience, whether it’s the soft golden sand, stunning ocean views, or the sound of waves echoing through the cliffs. If you’re looking for the perfect beach escape without leaving the city, these places should definitely be on your list!
Baker Beach
One of the most famous beaches in San Francisco, Baker Beach is a must-visit for anyone who loves breathtaking ocean views. This picturesque spot is located near the Presidio and is surrounded by Cliffside neighborhoods, giving it a unique charm. The Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands create a spectacular backdrop, making it an ideal place to unwind. The beach is very long and sandy, perfect for taking a stroll or simply enjoying the fresh air. Unfortunately, rip currents make the water unsafe for swimming, and the waves can be pretty intense. The cold water also makes it less appealing for a dip, but that doesn’t take away from its beauty.
Baker Beach is a good place for those who love hiking, sunbathing, or picnicking. In the summer, it’s even possible to see dolphins or whales playing in the waves. I often take photos here, capturing the stunning scenery, and I love just to relax and admire the sunset. A helpful TIP—if you walk towards the north side, be prepared to come across nudists, as part of the beach is clothing optional. For photographers and nature lovers, I highly recommend going during sunset, as the colors over the Golden Gate Bridge are spectacular.
If you’re wondering how to get there, the best and easiest way is by car. There are two free parking lots, so finding a spot isn’t too tricky. However, if you’re coming from the city center, you can take the Muni bus, which stops directly near the beach. Line 29 is the most convenient option for public transport. Whether you arrive by bus or drive yourself, Baker Beach is a fantastic spot to experience the natural beauty of San Francisco.
Marshall Beach
One of the most hidden and beautiful spots in San Francisco, Marshall Beach is a true gem for those who love peaceful seaside escapes. It is a smaller version of Baker Beach but much more narrow, with big rocks scattered along the shore. This beach offers some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, as it is located right next to it. Since it sits further north, the view of the bridge is even closer and more breathtaking. If you take a walk towards the bridge during low tide, you’ll experience a pretty adventurous journey across the rocky terrain.
To get to Marshall Beach, you need to start a hike at the trailhead on the northern end of the Batteries to Bluffs Trail, which is near the Overlook. It takes about 5 minutes to get to the exact location from the parking lot. Halfway down, there is a detour branching off from the main trail that goes down to the beach. You must turn right to reach it. The well-maintained trail is a combination of wooden stairs and dirt paths, making the descent easy, even though it is only 0.5 miles long.
TIP: The best time to visit Marshall Beach is during low tide, as it is not very walkable when the water is high. I recommend watching the sunset here—it’s a sight to remember. If you’re wondering how to get there, the easiest way is by car, and you can leave it at the Overlook parking lot, just 5 minutes from the trailhead. If you decide to go by bus, you can take line 27 or 28.
Black Sands Beach
Black Sands Beach is one of the most beautiful and unique beaches near San Francisco. It is located in Marin Headlands, a scenic part of Marin County, just about a 30-minute drive up north from the city. This beach reminds me of Hawaii because of its dark pebbles that look like sand. The beach features lots of rocks and is surrounded by enormous cliffs, giving it a private feel. At the same time, it remains open and empty, making it a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
This hidden gem is known mainly by locals, and if you’re lucky, you might find the famous shaka rock, which gives off pure surfing vibes. TIP: The best time to visit is during a day trip, as there are many spots nearby to explore. You can also stop at Battery Spencer along the way for breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
If you’re wondering how to get there, I highly recommend using a car, as it may be hard to reach with Uber or Lyft. The parking lot is not apparent, as it is tiny and located off Conzelman Road, which turns into a one-way street. Make sure you don’t miss the entrance, or you’ll need to go around. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the beach itself, and the path is easy to follow.
Crissy Field Beach
Crissy Field Beach is a long, sandy, dog-friendly beach located in the northern part of the city, right inside the Bay. It offers beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito, making it a perfect place to relax or explore. The name comes from the large green fields behind the beach, where you can find lots of walking trails and a promenade that makes it easily accessible and friendly for visitors. The beach itself is flat and very windy, which makes it popular among kite surfers and wind-surfers.
I usually start my walk or hike from East Beach and head towards Fort Point, enjoying the picturesque views along the way. Crissy Field Beach is also perfect for a picnic, as you can find areas near the shore that are great for relaxing. TIP: If you’re planning a visit, it’s an excellent beach for swimming on a warm day since there are no rip currents like Baker or Marshall’s Beach. While you’re here, be sure to check out the Warming Hut Cafe and take a stroll down Torpedo Wharf.
If you’re wondering how to get to Crissy Field Beach, I recommend a car, as you can park at the free parking lot near East Beach. However, if you prefer public transport, the Muni Bus 30 stops directly at the beach, making it an easy destination for locals and tourists alike.
Mile Rock Beach
Mile Rock Beach is a small cove located along Lands End Trail. It offers a beautiful, rugged coastline and a very wild atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by forests, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. However, reaching it requires a long trail walk, which adds to the adventure. The easiest way to get there is to start at the Visitor Center at Lands End Lookout, near Sutro Baths. The hike is enjoyable, with breathtaking ocean views along the way.
At high tide, the beach becomes narrow, but when the tide is out, you can explore the area and enjoy the stunning surroundings. TIP: I recommend checking out this beach while hiking Lands End Trail, as it offers a perfect break to relax and take in the scenery. The untouched beauty and quiet nature of the place make it a hidden gem worth visiting.
If you’re wondering how to get there, you can leave your car at 680 Point Lobos Avenue at the Visitor Center and then hike for about 20-30 minutes. The walk is refreshing, and reaching Mile Rock Beach feels like a reward after the journey.
I hope you liked this post about the top 5 beaches in San Francisco! Feel free to explore more posts about California and SF here, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @travelbydignity for more travel updates!
Final Thoughts
San Francisco has some of the best beaches with stunning views and unique landscapes. Whether you love long, sandy beaches or narrow, rocky coves, there is a perfect spot for you. From the famous Baker Beach to the hidden Mile Rock Beach, each location offers something unique. You can enjoy hiking, sunbathing, picnicking, or even spotting dolphins. If you want breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, head to Marshall Beach or Crissy Field Beach. For a more wild and rugged coastline, Black Sands Beach is the place to go. Each beach has a different charm, making it great for any mood. Plan your trip, pack your essentials, and explore these top 5 beaches in San Francisco. Don’t forget to check the tide times and pick the best spot for your adventure!
FAQs
1. What is the most beautiful beach in San Francisco?
The most beautiful beach in San Francisco is Baker Beach, which offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and picturesque sunsets.
2. What is special about Baker Beach in San Francisco?
Baker Beach is special for its breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and its relaxed, scenic atmosphere. It’s also popular for picnics, photography, and sunset watching.
3. What is the number 1 best beach?
Grace Bay in the Turks and Caicos Islands is often considered the number one best beach in the world. Its pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and serene atmosphere make it a top destination.
4. Which beach is very famous?
Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii, is one of the most famous beaches globally. It’s known for its iconic surf spots, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning views of Diamond Head.