12 BEST Beaches in The Golden Gate Area
San Francisco’s skyline and historic landmarks might get all the attention, but did you know the Golden Gate area also has some seriously awesome beaches? Whether you’re into epic bridge views or hidden gems far from the crowds, there’s a spot for you.
These Golden Gate Beaches won’t disappoint!
Table of Contents
- BEST Golden Gate Beaches to Visit
- 1. Baker Beach
- 2. Marshall Beach
- 3. Golden Gate Beach (Crissy Fields Beach)
- 4. Kirby Cove
- 5. China Beach
- 6. Mile Rocks Beach and Seal Rock Beach
- Great Golden Gate Beaches Without Bridge Views
- 7. Rodeo Beach
- 8. Black Sand Beach
- 9. Tennessee Beach
- 10. Muir Beach
- 11. Steep Ravine Beach
- 12. Stinson State Beach
BEST Golden Gate Beaches to Visit
The Golden Gate area is HUGE. We’re not just talking about the Golden Gate Bridge itself, but the entire Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Some beaches give you that postcard-perfect bridge view, and others… well, they’re just straight-up stunning in their own right without the bridge. Trust me, they’re all worth a visit!
GET THE ULTIMATE WEST COAST MAP
Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!
First are the beaches with bridge views, and then I’ll list other beautiful coves for you to check out nearby!
1. Baker Beach
Baker Beach is easily one of the most popular beaches with a perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The wide, soft sands and unbeatable view make it a top spot for both locals and tourists. Even when it’s packed, there’s still plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the scenery.
Heads up: clothing is optional at the north end of the beach! Stick to the south if that’s not your thing, or join in if you’re feeling adventurous!
2. Marshall Beach
Marshall Beach has views that rival Baker Beach but without the crowds. It’s a bit more secluded thanks to a half-mile hike to reach it, which means you’ll likely have a more peaceful beach day.
Take the Batteries to Bluffs Trail to get there, and be sure to check the tides since the beach nearly disappears at high tide. Stay for sunset if you can—it’s worth it.
3. Golden Gate Beach (Crissy Fields Beach)
Crissy Field, also known as Golden Gate Beach, is split into two sections: East and West. West Beach is closer to the bridge, with picnic tables, parking, and plenty of dogs running free. East Beach still has amazing bridge views but is a little more chill.
It’s super windy, making it perfect for windsurfers and kiteboarders. The beach is busy all day, from sunrise joggers to sunset picnic-goers, and it’s crazy to think this area was once an airfield!
*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*
4. Kirby Cove
If you want Golden Gate views without the tourist crowds, hike down to Kirby Cove. It’s a small beach with jaw-dropping views, and it’s a bit of a gem because not many want to hike down here.
There are picnic tables with killer views of the city skyline, and if you want to stay longer, there’s even a camping area open during the summer.
READ MORE: Kirby Cove—Everything You Need to Know!
5. China Beach
China Beach is small but mighty when it comes to views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Surrounded by high rock walls, it’s a picture-perfect spot with tide pools to explore when the water’s low.
It’s best to visit at low tide, so check the tide times before you go. Parking can fill up fast, especially when Baker Beach is crowded, but it’s worth it for the view!
6. Mile Rocks Beach and Seal Rock Beach
Nestled in the Lands End area, Mile Rocks Beach and Seal Rocks Beach offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a bit of a hike down, but that’s part of the adventure—plus, the stairs go through an arched tree trunk, which is pretty cool!
You can also follow the trail up to Lands End Point for even better views. Keep an eye out for whales during migration season!
Seal Rocks Beach is right next door and offers dramatic rock formations and epic sunsets, so don’t skip it!
RELATED: 15 Best Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoints
Great Golden Gate Beaches Without Bridge Views
It’s not just about the bridge! There are so many other incredible beaches in the Golden Gate area that are worth visiting even if you don’t get that iconic bridge shot.
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) is packed with beaches, and while these might not have a bridge view, they’re still more than worth your time. Trust me!
7. Rodeo Beach
Rodeo Beach may not give you bridge views, but it makes up for it with dramatic cliffs, stunning rock formations, and a wide, wild lagoon at its back. This crescent-shaped beach has some seriously striking scenery, with the Pacific waves crashing in front of you.
Surfing and skimboarding are popular here, but swimming is not advised due to dangerous waters.
8. Black Sand Beach
Looking for something different? Black Sand Beach is just that—its dark, volcanic sand sets it apart from the rest.
The black sand comes from the pillow basalt rocks of the Marin Headlands, formed by ancient lava flows. It’s a unique beach experience that feels worlds away from San Francisco.
Heads up: The trail down has a lot of stairs, and the beach almost disappears at high tide, so be sure to check the tide schedule before you go!
TIP: Nearby Point Bonita Lighthouse is worth a visit, especially on weekends when it’s open for tours!
*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*
9. Tennessee Beach
Tennessee Beach might have a bit of a spooky history, named after the SS Tennessee shipwreck in 1853, but it’s a beautiful spot nonetheless. During low tide, you might even spot the remains of the ship’s skeleton on the sand.
High cliffs and vibrant greenery frame this long stretch of beach. You can take the Tennessee Valley Trail to get here.
For jaw-dropping views, hike up to the Tennessee Valley Overlook or check out the historic military bunker perched on the cliffs. Just be warned—the waves here are wild all year long!
10. Muir Beach
Muir Beach might be a bit further out from San Francisco, but the reward is well worth it. Surrounded by the giant redwoods of Muir Woods, this peaceful stretch of sand has plenty of space to spread out and relax.
During whale migration season, you might even spot gray whales swimming by as they travel from Alaska to Mexico. The Muir Beach Overlook is a great spot for whale watching if you want a better view.
RELATED: 5 of The Best Hikes in Muir Woods + Top Tips on How to Get Here
11. Steep Ravine Beach
Located in Mount Tamalpais State Park, Steep Ravine Beach is a secluded, rocky beach at the bottom of a steep canyon. It’s off the beaten path and offers a quiet escape from the city crowds.
The Steep Ravine Cabins perched high on the bluff are incredibly popular, offering one of the best places to camp in all of California.
RELATED: Uncovering Mount Tamalpais State Park Near San Francisco
12. Stinson State Beach
Stinson State Beach is about 20 miles from San Francisco, but the drive is worth it. This massive beach stretches for miles and is perfect for a full day of activities—volleyball, BBQs, long walks, or surfing in the waves.
During summer, snack bars are open, and the nearby town has tons of dining options, making it a perfect day trip for city dwellers.
TIP: Winter and spring are prime times for surfing at Stinson!
*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*
We hope this guide helped you choose which Golden Gate beaches to visit during your trip. Enjoy your beach adventures!
