Carlin's Gardens

Golden Gate National Parks' beaches are among the area's most popular destinations for beach lovers. Ocean Beach most definitely falls into that category. The beach stretches three miles along the western side of the city from Richmond to Sunset. This beach perfectly exemplifies the untouched outdoor beauty of the western part of San Francisco as it looked before it was fully developed. When you take that fact into consideration, Ocean Beach is even more alluring, as the inviting sandscapes and sound of the waves will draw you in, whether the season is warm or cool. In the latter case, you can choose to warm up by grabbing a coffee or latte at Java Beach coffee shop.

As anyone who's ever taken a skydive can tell you, there's nothing quite like the free fall. Instead of just imagining what it would be like, it's time to do it for yourself! And to add to your extreme sports adventure, imagine Northern California's Wine Country as your landing pad. The pros at NorCal Skydiving can make this adventure a reality. In addition to providing the necessary training and equipment, you can also get your dive recorded to share with everyone when you safely return to the ground.

The California Academy of Sciences is located in Golden Gate Park and offers the whole family a chance to learn about science in a new and entertaining way. Among the many popular exhibits and attractions are those focused on various types of fish and other aquatic life, the rain forests of the world, and the newly added roof garden. The spirit of scientific discovery is very much alive here, and that pursuit of knowledge will no doubt inspire your kids to not only ask more questions, but find the answers in this highly regarded facility.

Chinatown is literally a city within a city. And Chinatown isn't merely a tourist trap, run-of-the-mill attraction, but a genuine celebration of Chinese culture. Sure, there are signs of the exotic as evidenced by the several wares for sale like spices, silks and jade; but events like the Chinese New Year celebration dramatically demonstrate the pride and tradition that is still very much alive at the Grand Avenue and Bush Street entrance and beyond.