Top 10 San Francisco Beaches for Sun-Kissed Adventures

10 Apr 2025

San Francisco, a vibrant city on the northern California coast, is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic neighborhoods, and scenic cable car rides. But beyond its famous hills and culture-packed streets, the city offers coastal beauty that’s just as memorable—especially if you’re seeking a beach day with a view.

Are There Beaches in San Francisco?

San Francisco stretches along the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, providing a mix of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping sandy shores. The city experiences a cool-summer Mediterranean climate, with sea temperatures ranging from 10°C in winter to 15°C in summer. While the water can be cold and the waves strong, the natural surroundings and iconic backdrops make beach trips here special year-round.

San Francisco is home to 10 public beaches, each offering a unique vibe—some peaceful and remote, others energetic and close to major attractions. These beaches are generally free to access, with many offering restrooms, trails, picnic tables, and stunning views. Swimming is possible in some areas, though caution is advised due to cold temperatures and rip currents. Whether you’re into hiking, relaxing, people-watching, or photography, there’s a San Francisco beach for every kind of explorer.

In this article, we’ll introduce the best beaches near San Francisco, covering all 10 of the city’s main public beaches and what makes each one special. From peaceful escapes to the ones buzzing with life, we’ll help you find your perfect coastal spot—and pick the best of the best.

Before you head out, don’t forget you can store your luggage easily around the city. Thanks to Qeepl, you can drop off your bags and roam hands-free, whether you’re catching a wave or relaxing with a bay view.

1. Baker Beach

Baker Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in San Francisco. Located in the Presidio, this wide, sandy stretch offers unforgettable views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rugged Marin Headlands. With its soft sand, picnic tables, and free access, it’s a favorite for both tourists and locals who want a relaxing spot near one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Baker Beach with Golden Gate Bridge in the background, calm waters, and a few beachgoers under a clear blue sky

Although the water is too cold and rough for swimming, Baker Beach is a fantastic place for sunbathing, walking, or enjoying a sunset picnic. You might spot dolphins offshore or pelicans flying by, and on clear days, the backdrop is postcard-perfect. The northern section is clothing-optional, and the southern area is family-friendly, so there’s space for everyone.

2. Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is the city’s largest and longest beach, stretching over 3.5 miles along the Pacific coast. Located near Golden Gate Park and the Outer Richmond district, it’s the best place for long walks, flying kites, or just soaking in the sea air. The beach is open to all, with no entrance fee and easy access from many parts of the city.

Ocean Beach with rocky formations, waves, and misty mountains under cloudy sky

Swimming is not advised here due to strong rip currents and large waves, but it’s a hotspot for experienced surfers. On cool foggy mornings or during glowing sunsets, the beach transforms into a moody, magical space. With plenty of space to spread out, it’s also a great option for beach bonfires (in designated areas) and relaxed weekend hangouts.

3. China Beach

Tucked between Baker Beach and Lands End, China Beach is a small, hidden gem in the upscale Sea Cliff neighborhood. It’s quiet and often less crowded, which makes it perfect for those wanting a peaceful experience. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge from here are spectacular, and the beach feels tucked away from the rest of the city.

View of Golden Gate Bridge at dusk with city skyline and crescent moon in the background

You’ll find picnic tables, restrooms, and a little shaded area near the stairs. The waves are gentler than in other areas, so while the water is still cold, it’s a decent spot for dipping your toes. Bring a picnic, your camera, and enjoy a rare, quiet corner of the city.

4. Crissy Field East Beach

Crissy Field East Beach is a part of the Presidio and sits along the northern waterfront near the Marina District. It’s known for its calm, shallow waters and unbeatable views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Families love this beach because of its flat sand, kid-friendly waters, and grassy picnic areas nearby.

Golden Gate Bridge at sunset with sandy beach and tranquil waters in foreground

There’s a beachside café, clean restrooms, and accessible paths for biking or walking. You’re also close to the Palace of Fine Arts and other city landmarks, making it a perfect stop during a day of sightseeing. It’s a lively but relaxed beach that blends city energy with natural beauty.

5. Marshall’s Beach

Marshall’s Beach is one of San Francisco’s more secluded and scenic stretches of coastline. Accessible only by foot via the Batteries to Bluffs trail in the Presidio, it offers unmatched views of the Golden Gate Bridge and plenty of privacy. The beach is small and rocky, but incredibly photogenic and peaceful.

Three tourists on Marshall's Beach viewing the Golden Gate Bridge on a sunny day

Because of its quiet atmosphere and remote location, it attracts photographers, nature lovers, and some nude sunbathers. There are no services or lifeguards, so it’s best for adults looking for solitude and panoramic views. Wear good walking shoes and bring water—it’s worth the effort.

6. Mile Rock Beach

Mile Rock Beach is a small, rocky cove beneath Lands End, one of San Francisco’s best coastal parks. The beach itself is quiet, raw, and beautiful—framed by cliffs, crashing waves, and big boulders perfect for climbing. You reach it by hiking a short but steep trail down from the Lands End Trail.

The image shows a beach with white sand and clear blue water

There are no amenities here, but the atmosphere is unbeatable for those wanting a rugged adventure. The nearby Lands End Labyrinth, just above the cliffs, is a peaceful and meditative place with dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and shipping lanes into the Bay. It’s an ideal stop for a scenic afternoon outdoors.

7. Fort Funston

Located in the far southwest of the city, Fort Funston is where cliffs, dunes, and wind come together. This beach is known for its hang-gliding and off-leash dog zones, making it a favorite among adventurers and pet owners alike. The beach itself is wide and windswept, with plenty of open space.

Coastal landscape with beach, cliffs, and distant hillside houses

You’ll find trails along the bluffs, restrooms, and a large parking area. The beach isn’t ideal for swimming, but walking along the shore and watching hang-gliders sail through the sky is an unforgettable experience. It’s one of the most dramatic beaches in San Francisco—raw and thrilling.

8. Aquatic Park Cove

Located next to Fisherman’s Wharf, Aquatic Park Cove is the closest beach to San Francisco’s downtown. Unlike most other city beaches, this one is part of the bay and features calmer waters that are actually swimmable, thanks to the breakwater wall. It’s popular with open-water swimmers, especially those training for events like the Alcatraz swim.

A large sailing ship is docked in a harbor. The Golden Gate Bridge is in the background

There’s a small sandy section, grassy park area, and benches to relax on while watching the boats. You’re steps away from Ghirardelli Square and the Maritime Museum, so this beach fits perfectly into a day of city exploration. It’s compact, central, and filled with character.

9. Lands End Beach

Though more of a trailhead than a traditional beach, Lands End does have small coves and rocky outcrops that count as shoreline. The views of the Golden Gate, Marin Headlands, and the sea are unmatched. The trail system here is excellent, winding through cypress groves and old military ruins.

The picture shows the Golden Gate Bridge from a distance, obscured by large rocks in the foreground

You won’t find amenities or safe swimming spots, but you will find wild nature and quiet cliffside benches. It’s a must for hikers and sunset lovers. If you want the feeling of being far from the city while still in it, Lands End delivers.

10. Black Sands Beach (Bonita Cove side)

Though technically located just across the Golden Gate Bridge in the Marin Headlands, Black Sands Beach is close enough to include. With its dramatic black sand, steep descent, and isolated feel, it’s a favorite among locals who want a peaceful spot with incredible views back toward San Francisco.

Scenic view of Black Sands Beach with dark sand, ocean waves, and distant hills at dusk

The beach is clothing-optional and mostly unknown to tourists. It’s not suited for swimming, but for a day of quiet, natural beauty, it’s hard to beat. On clear days, you’ll see the whole city skyline rising behind the water.

Best Beaches in San Francisco

Qeepl’s experts chose their top 3 picks for the best San Francisco beach experiences, based on accessibility, safety, scenery, and the variety of activities each one offers throughout the year.

Crissy Field East Beach offers the most balanced experience in the city. It’s easy to get to, safe for families, and close to major landmarks like the Palace of Fine Arts and Marina Green. Whether you’re walking the dog, flying a kite, or just relaxing with a coffee by the shore, this beach has something for everyone.
Laid-back but dramatic, Marshall’s Beach earns its place for unmatched scenery and peace. With the most stunning up-close view of the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s ideal for romantic sunsets, nature photos, and unplugged moments. If you’re looking to escape the city without leaving it, this is your beach.
Ocean Beach stands out for sheer size and atmosphere. Its endless stretch of sand is perfect for long walks, and its wild waves and foggy mornings offer a classic Northern California vibe. It’s not for swimmers—but for soul-searchers, photographers, and surf watchers, it’s the ultimate experience.

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