The Best Beaches Near San Francisco

It may not be as famous, or as warm, as southern California, but San Francisco’s beach scene is thriving. From popular Ocean Beach to the coves of Mile Rock Beach, from swimming in Aquatic Park to hiking to Lands End – there’s something for everyone. San Francisco even has a vibrant nudist culture on the sands of Baker Beach. Culture Trip picks the best.

1. Ocean Beach

Natural Feature

The most popular beach in San Francisco, Ocean Beach is great for watersports, and the 1mi (1.5km) stretch can often be found full of kitesurfers, surfers and skimboarders. Do not expect the balmy temperatures of LA here, however; only the hardiest surfers will brave San Francisco’s cold seas. While the beach is a great spot to enjoy a homemade picnic, there is also a choice of welcoming cafés and restaurants around the sand. Pay a visit to the Cliff House for a luxurious dining experience, or Kawika’s Ocean Beach Deli for something a little more casual.

2. Mile Rock Beach

Natural Feature

Mile Rock Beach, San Francisco, California, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, USA, sunny spring day

This remote cove is known for the stacked rocks that are left by visitors on the sand, and a stone labyrinth above the shore. If the idea of a day’s sunbathing leaves you feeling restless, Mile Rock Beach is the perfect place to explore. A half-mile coastal trail leads from this cove to Lands End, with caves, shipwrecks and other secrets to be found at low tide.

3. Baker Beach

Bridge

A walk along Baker Beach is worth it for its view of the Golden Gate Bridge. These west-facing sands are also one of the most popular locations in the Bay Area, especially for nudists, so it’s not for the shy and retiring. The riptide is strong around this section of coast, which means paddling is fine but open-water swimming is not advisable. If you’d rather keep your bathers on, avoid the furthest corner of the beach near the bridge, as this tends to be the busiest for the clothing-optional brigade.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

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