We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Culture

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Some Outdoor Activities in San Francisco?

Diana Bocco
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,968
References
Share

San Francisco is famous for its Golden Gate Bridge, its crooked Lombard street, and some of the best coastal views in California. If you are visiting the area and looking for outdoor activities in San Francisco, you first stop should be near the water. Alcatraz and Angel Island are great starters if you wish to mix the outdoors with a little sightseeing; otherwise, you can simply start your day by enjoying the San Francisco Peninsula by taking a walk near the water on Fisherman's Wharf, the city's main boardwalk.

Outdoor activities in San Francisco are not limited to the views, however. There are many parks and beaches in the San Francisco area. Baker Beach is great for both tourists and locals because it offers amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and smaller crowds than other local beaches. Golden Gate Park ends on the beach, but also offers walking trails, rental boats, and several flower conservatories. For outdoor activities in San Francisco that go beyond the beach, try one of the city's urban parks, such as Buena Vista Park, the city's oldest, and Lake Merced, which includes golf courses and a salted lake.

For those wishing to explore outdoor activities in San Francisco, the 49-Mile Scenic Drive allows for good views of the city's major attractions, with special stops in several beaches and parks, Fisherman's Wharf, and other popular tourists spots. Parking is available at most of these places, so it is possible to take the scenic drive, then leave your car there, and take the trails or buy tickets for a boat cruise of the harbor.

Glen Canyon Park is a great stop for those looking for a more adventurous twist on outdoor activities in San Francisco. The park features steep trails and opportunities for rock climbing. Wooden stairways and other add-ons have transformed the park into the equivalent to a giant adult's playground.

Other popular outdoor activities in San Francisco include kayaking and canoeing. Rental of boats is possible near the water, and many companies offer tours for those who don't feel comfortable taking on the waters on their own. It should be noted, however, that San Francisco has some areas with high tides, and inexperienced visitors should explore their options before heading off into the ocean.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources
Diana Bocco
By Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco, a versatile writer with a distinct voice, creates compelling long-form and short-form content for various businesses. With a data-focused approach and a talent for sharing engaging stories, Diana’s written work gets noticed and drives results.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By Misscoco — On Nov 16, 2011

The city of San Francisco is a real gem. If the weather is nice, it's a great place to spend time outdoor - walking, taking a boat ride or just sitting on a park bench.

Fisherman's Wharf is such a great place to have a little seafood snack and just people watch. Lombard Street is so beautiful in the summertime with all the flowers.Going down isn't bad, but the climb back up isn't easy.

If you want to combine exercise with sightseeing, there's plenty of steep hills to tackle.

By live2shop — On Nov 15, 2011

I think that most people would agree that they never get tired of visiting San Francisco. It is a very unique city and always seems to have something new to offer.

One time I was down there with my young daughters. We just hopped on a bus and then went walking through different neighborhoods. One was the hilly neighborhood where we climbed up to the Coit Tower. We went to various beaches and found some very interesting local parks. Chinatown was lots of fun to walk around in. The fresh sea air was wonderful to breath in.

By anon70232 — On Mar 12, 2010

I also just love walking around the city! Chinatown is a great cultural experience and you can do a ghost tour in the evening.

Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco, a versatile writer with a distinct voice, creates compelling long-form and short-form content for various...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-some-outdoor-activities-in-san-francisco.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.