Outdoors
in San Francisco, CA

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There’s nothing better than breathing fresh air and getting in touch with nature. State parks, botanical gardens, trails, lakes, and farms are exactly the place to do it – and this area is full of them.

Take a look at all the options within driving distance – you’ll be surprised at how close your next adventure is. We provide the driving directions, but the sunscreen’s on you!
Alameda Creek Regional Trail
Alameda Creek Regional Trail

(510) 544-3137

2250 Isherwood Way
Fremont, CA 94536   Directions Website

The Alameda Creek Regional Trail is a 12-mile long, multi-use recreation trail that winds along the banks of Alameda Creek from the mouth of Niles Canyon in the east to San Francisco Bay at its western end. Walkers, runners, and cyclists enjoy this popular, picturesque trail.

Aquatic Park Cove
Aquatic Park Cove

(415) 561-7000

San Francisco, CA
Website

If casting your fishing line out and nestling in a comfortable chair to wait for the big catch sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon, then make your way to the San Francisco Municipal Pier. This site not only offers good fishing, but better than average results await if you go crabbing for rock crabs. Bring a jacket as the winds are chilly on the pier no matter what time of year it is.

Bamboo Reef
Bamboo Reef

(415) 362-6694

584 4th St
San Francisco, CA 94107   Directions Website

With the Pacific Ocean literally at your front door in San Francisco, going scuba diving is a truly adventurous idea. If you're not quite sure where to start, let the experts at Bamboo Reef guide you to make sure that your first dive is as awesomely memorable as it can be! This experience will offer you a whole new take on water recreation.

Franklin Square Park
Franklin Square Park

(415) 831-2700

2500 17th St
San Francisco, CA 94110   Directions Website

Franklin Square Park has a low-key, comfortable area that is both inviting and relaxing. The lush green grass and expansive area make the nearby soccer field, playground, monkey bars and jungle gym highly inviting prospects for the kids. The plentiful trees offer some relaxing shaded areas, and the picnic tables and benches are perfect spots to grab a quick lunch or just sit outdoors for a while and take it all in.

Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy - Crissy Field
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy - Crissy Field

(415) 561-7752

1199 E Beach
San Francisco, CA 94129   Directions Website

For a chance to take the family out and have some fun in the California sun, there's no better destination in San Francisco than Crissy Field. While this is a beautiful and relaxing place, it also offers stunning views from nearly every vantage point. There is beach access here, too, so the kids will love to romp on the seashore while playing in the waves. This park is within the confines of the Golden Gate National Park, and Crissy Field is 100 acres of California shoreline that is a favorite of joggers, walkers, cyclists and anyone who loves the outdoors. Additional amenities include picnic tables, a gift shop, concession stand, restrooms, a visitor center and the area also allows alcohol.

Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park

(415) 831-2700

San Francisco, CA
Website

Golden Gate Park is nearly as iconic as the bridge it is named for. This incredibly beautiful swath of land is lush, inviting and peaceful. The park is the perfect place for a quiet outdoor picnic, scenic walk or just sitting and enjoying the exceptional views. On a larger scale, this park features 1,000 acres of gardens, meadows, lakes, and even a golf course, along with internationally recognized art and science museums. In short, the park offers something special for both locals and visitors who not only love nature, but the whole experience of being in San Francisco as well.

McKinley Square
McKinley Square

(415) 937-1460

San Francisco, CA
Website

McKinley Square is one of the city's most popular park areas. Because of its location on a hillside, it offers spectacular views that combine the majestic backdrop of San Francisco with the more urban realities of the various roofs of the nearby houses to give it a special kind of balance. The neighborhood charm of the park is evident, as several people are out walking their dogs, playing with the kids or just taking a quick stroll down one of the many walking trails. This is most definitely a great place to come breathe in some fresh air and enjoy time outdoors before heading back to your usual routine.

Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach

(415) 561-4323

San Francisco, CA
Website

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.

San Francisco Bicycle Coalition
San Francisco Bicycle Coalition

(415) 431-2453

1720 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94102   Directions Website

Cycling is considered a legitimate way to get around San Francisco, and the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition does its best to make sure that safety is everyone's first priority. Several of the best bike trails in the city are posted, along with detailed reviews, on their website.

San Francisco Botanical Garden
San Francisco Botanical Garden

(415) 661-1316

1199 9th Ave
San Francisco, CA 94122   Directions Website

Create several memorable moments at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Whether you plan to stay all afternoon or just for a little while, you will be immediately struck by the garden's amazing beauty. The plants, trees and layout are all meticulously arranged and cared for to assure that your visit offers you a chance to breathe in all of the garden's incredible allure. The facility features several world gardens, a horticulture library, a bookstore and various education programs that will add a deeper dimension to every visit.

Sea Trek Kayak
Sea Trek Kayak

(415) 332-8494

2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965   Directions Website

Commandeering a kayak takes skill and agility. That combination often leads to some excellent adrenaline rushes! If you want to venture out but don't know where to start, head to Sea Trek Kayak in Sausalito. They'll lead you to the best place to experience this popular sport.

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