Debra Gurriere - Corcoran Global Living

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.

Music fans know that in these days of a volatile economy, it is actually a challenge to find a real music store anymore. That's why collectors stay devoted to Amoeba Music, which just happens to be the world's largest independent record store. Both young and old music fans alike spend hours flipping through Amoeba's incredible selection of vintage vinyl LPs to find several long-out-of-print treasures. There's also a great selection of CDs, DVDs, and related items like t-shirts, posters and various other collectibles. Plus, the store regularly features musical guests who perform right in the store. So don't lose your groove, find it, at San Francisco's Amoeba Music!

Do any of your kids show an interest in art? Whether they love to create it or just take it all in, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art will more than likely inspire some new ideas. Several styles of modern art are featured as the museum regularly rotates its exhibits and attractions. In addition to viewing the art, the kids can actually create some of their own in the various modern art hands-on workshops that are provided on Family Sundays. But be prepared for a good workout, as the museum is an impressive six stories that is topped by a 145-foot skylight tower that the kids will surely want to check out.

Many visitors have claimed that the Japanese Tea Garden, located inside of Golden Gate Park, is perhaps the most beautiful and serene part of San Francisco. That statement may very well be true, as hundreds of people have had the pleasure of seeing the garden and spending time taking in its incredible natural amenities. The landscaping is truly breathtaking, as well as the detailed Japanese sculptures and miniature pagodas that are also featured here. So when you're in San Francisco, make plans to experience the Japanese Tea Garden's mesmerizing, almost intoxicating natural allure.