Best Summer Beach Destinations in San Francisco, California, United States

1. Baker Beach

Enjoy the rugged beauty of Baker Beach with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Golden Gate Views: Unobstructed, stunning views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge
Dog-Friendly Beach: One of the few beaches in San Francisco where dogs are allowed off-leash
Historical Cliffside Battery: Explore nearby batteries with historical significance

Experience the vast expanse of Ocean Beach with its iconic Sutro Baths ruins.

Iconic Ruins: Explore the remnants of the historic Sutro Baths
Surfing and Kite Flying: Ideal for surfing, kite flying, and sunbathing
Wide, Sand beach: One of the widest beaches in San Francisco with plenty of space to relax

Relax at Crissy Field with its picturesque views and historic WWII-era structures.

Presidio Park Access: Easy access to nearby Presidio Park for additional outdoor activities
Windsurfing and Kiteboarding: Popular destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding
Tide Pool Exploration: Explore tidal pools during low tide

Discover the tranquil and secluded Marshall's Beach with its hidden cove.

Hidden Cove: Enjoy a secluded, private beach experience
Golden Gate Bridge Views: Stunning, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge
Clothing-Optional Beach: Known for its clothing-optional policy (unofficial)

Visit China Beach to enjoy the serene atmosphere and observe nesting sea birds.

Sea Bird Nesting: Opportunity to observe nesting sea birds, especially cormorants
Quiet and Peaceful: A serene and peaceful beach perfect for relaxation
Limited Facilities: Minimal facilities, offering a rustic beach experience

Escape to the scenic beauty of Stinson Beach in Marin County.

Hiking Trails: Surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts
Picnicking and BBQing: Plenty of picnic areas and grills available for a beachside feast
Clear Waters: Ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in its clear waters

Experience the natural beauty of Muir Beach with its lush trails and coastal views.

Coastal Trails: Enjoy scenic hikes along nearby coastal trails
Bolinas Lagoon Views: Gorgeous views of Bolinas Lagoon from the beach
Limited Facilities: Minimal facilities, offering a rustic and peaceful beach experience

Relax at Rodeo Beach with its stunning cliffs and nearby Muir Woods.

Muir Woods Access: Easy access to the breathtaking Redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument
Rocky Cliffs and Caves: Explore rocky cliffs and sea caves along the beach
Limited Facilities: Minimal facilities, offering a rustic and natural beach experience

Discover the hidden gem of Pirate's Cove with its secluded coves and tide pools.

Secluded Coves: Enjoy private, secluded beaches
Tide Pool Exploration: Explore diverse and vibrant tide pools during low tide
Limited Accessibility: Requires a bit of effort to reach, but worth the journey

Relax at Angel Island's pristine beaches while enjoying the island's rich history.

Historical Significance: Immerse yourself in the island's rich immigration and military history
Camping Opportunities: Overnight camping available for a multi-day beach escape
Clear Waters: Ideal for swimming and paddleboarding in its clear waters

Experience the fun of Fort Funston with its stunning cliffs and popular hang gliding spots.

Hang Gliding Opportunities: Popular destination for hang gliding enthusiasts
Off-Leash Dog Area: Designated off-leash area for dogs to play and run freely
Cliffside Views: Breathtaking cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean

Relax at Fisherman's Wharf Beach while enjoying San Francisco's iconic seafood and attractions.

Iconic Seafood: Proximity to world-class seafood restaurants
Attractions Galore: Close proximity to popular attractions like the Aquarium, Maritime Museum, and Ghirardelli Square
Urban Beach Experience: Unique urban beach experience with a lively, touristy atmosphere

Watch sea lions and harbor seals at Seal Rock Beach during low tide.

Sea Lion and Harbor Seal Viewing: Opportunity to observe sea lions and harbor seals up close
Limited Facilities: Minimal facilities, offering a rustic beach experience
Tide Pool Exploration: Explore tide pools during low tide

Enjoy a day at Coyote Point with its beautiful beaches, picnic areas, and historical museum.

Historical Museum: Visit the Coyote Point Museum Exploratorium to learn about local history
Beachside Picnicking: Plenty of picnic areas for a beachside feast
Clear Waters: Ideal for swimming and other water activities in its clear waters

Experience the tranquility of Candlestick Point with its scenic views and hiking trails.

Scenic Views: Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, and the City Skyline
Hiking Trails: Explore nearby hiking trails for outdoor adventure
Limited Facilities: Minimal facilities, offering a peaceful and quiet beach experience