Travel here and you’ll get it. San Francisco has perfect weather for a reason – we have so much to do outside! Not sure where to go first? Here are some suggestions:
Alcatraz – While decidedly touristy, there really is no experience like it. Take the ferry over to the island and explore the cell blocks of Al Capone and countless others on this island prison. Listen for ghosts, enjoy the tours and poke around a bit. Just bring a jacket – the weather is always a bit chilly out on the water.
Ocean Beach – You don’t have to get sandy to really enjoy the beach. Stroll or jog along the paved promenade on Ocean Beach and you’ll see beautiful views, amazing vistas and perhaps even the threatened Western Snowy Plover that likes to make a home on this beach.
Point Reyes National Seashore – The world here is rugged. So rugged, in fact, that you want to move carefully around the rocks and dramatic surf. Keep an eye on the waves and tides as you walk this 11-mile stretch of coastline. The beach is open in most areas making it an excellent area for storm watching and other similar experiences.
Ride a Bike – There are dozens of bike rental agencies in San Francisco for good reason. This is a city that requires a bit of exertion on your part to really enjoy the beauty and fun the city offers. Rent a bike and take one of the routes throughout the city to Twin Peaks Boulevard. These pathways are pretty steep so you’ll need to be a pretty steady athlete, but once you reach the top you’ll be amazed at the awesome views of everything from the bay, bridges and city centers.
Tamalpais State Park – Drive north for a bit and then you can either do a driving tour of this beautiful area or park and spend the day hiking through the native plants and wildlife. As you stroll through the flowers and ferns, you’ll be offered breathtaking views of San Francisco, the bay and the Pacific Ocean from the north side of the city.
Presidio Golf Course – If you’d rather do your walking on a championship green, the Presidio golf course is probably more your speed. This championship course has been opened to the public and features eighteen holes on the impressive grounds of the Presidio National Park.
Sporting Events – Continue your outdoor thrills with a different sort of sport. The San Francisco area is home to not one, not two, but three major teams and their various outdoor stadium. Take in a game by the San Francisco Giants, the Oakland A’s or even brave the crowds at an Oakland Raiders game.
Muir Woods – To clear your head after an exciting day of sports, drive a bit north to Muir Woods. This misty park features 560 acres of redwood forest. Take your pick of paved or unpaved trails through the woods as you explore and wander through redwood trees that date back more than 2,000 years.