Planning a vacation in San Francisco? You surely can’t have a good one without visiting some of the best San Francisco beaches for views that will get etched onto your mind. The bright Golden Gate bridge bathing in abundant golden sunshine and the picturesque waves crashing against the rocky shores make San Francisco an unmissable part of your itinerary. The beaches of this city have the most dramatic sunrises and sunsets, and a litany of adventure activities for those who love to dare.
Most Beautiful San Francisco Beaches
You are sure to fall in love with these marvelous shores:
1. Baker Beach
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Cold currents rush to the windy shore, as the magnificent view of the Golden Gate bridge washes over you. Baker Beach is one of the top beaches in San Francisco. The nearby Battery Chamberlain built in 1904, holds historical significance. The area is not safe for swimming, and the North Baker Beach is clothing-optional, so beware!
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2. Marshall’s Beach
Located at the end of a winding downward trek, this rocky, secluded beach has the best San Francisco beach weather. The water is quite cold, and the high tide makes it slightly adventurous, but it surely is one of the most breathtaking San Francisco beaches.
3. Mile Rock Beach
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Hidden under the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Mile Rock beach is a small, peaceful beach. Located at Lands End Coastal Trail, it has a ramshackled feel to it, making it one of the most unique beaches in San Francisco, CA.
4. China Beach
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The most family-friendly beach in San Francisco, China Beach derives its name from the Chinese fishermen who once took shelter here. Surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, and cliffs with sea creatures clinging onto them, China Beach is one of the most memorable public beaches in San Francisco.
5. Ocean Beach
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Lining the West Coast, Ocean Beach is a long, winding beach running from Cliff House to Sloat Boulevard. It is also home to the Ocean Park Motel which is the oldest motel located in San Francisco. Another major attraction is the Sutro Bath ruins, a body of picturesque salt-water lidos, which were built in 1896. For experts who like challenges, swimming and surfing are recommended; for the rest, activities like kite-flying, picnics, or a visit to the nearby San Francisco Zoo will be great fun!
6. Fort Funston Beach
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With World War tunnels, the Sunset Trail, and the sunset observatory, Funston Beach is a lot of touristy fun, just like its name suggests. Hang-gliding, hiking, and biking are just a few activities that you can engage in here. True to the windy city it is a part of, Fort Funston Beach has an amazing weather and stunning views.
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7. Black Sands Beach
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Located in Sausalito, this is the closest beach to San Francisco. It is a secret beach with unique black sand and peace and quietude in abundance. Go hiking or simply relax and unwind at this paradise on Earth. This one is again a clothing-optional area and is one of the best beaches near San Francisco.
8. Crissy Field East Beach
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Among all the San Francisco beaches, Crissy Field is the most versatile. Providing wholesome views of the Alcatraz Island, Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate bridge, Crissy Field serves as one of the best beaches in San Francisco. The Golden Gate Promenade, which is a beautiful path best known for running or cycling, begins here. The Crissy Marsh and Crissy Field Center are also nearby, and make for interesting hangouts.
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9. Kirby Cove Beach
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The photographer’s heaven, Kirby Cove is one of the most well-placed San Francisco beaches. It has a gravel road for bikers, and is easily accessible. Tourists flock here as it is lined with viewpoints and perfect angles for that Instagram-worthy shot of the Golden Gate bridge and San Francisco city. This area also has camping spots, so don’t hesitate to explore!
10. Rodeo Beach
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A small embayment known for its scenic sunsets and multi-hued pebbles strewn across the beach, Rodeo Beach is a gem among all San Francisco beaches. It attracts birdwatchers owing to the variety of species of ducks, pelicans, and seagulls found here. Skimboarding and surfing are also popular activities here.
Further Read: 15 Best Beaches In Spain To Bask In The Tropical Sun
What are you waiting for? Take out those hats and sunscreen bottles, and head over to these heavenly San Francisco beaches to take in what nature has to offer. Book your trip right away!
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Kanika has 4 years of experience in writing blogs and marketing content for travel. And when she’s not writing, she’s either exploring new terrains in a different corner of the world, or out in the city freezing urban scenarios in her camera.
