6 Best Views of San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its iconic views. While many of these beautiful views are world-famous, others are local secrets. The city is 7 by 7 miles, in this compact space, there are numerous views for everyone. Most of the places I mention here are outdoors, anytime you are in San Francisco, it’s best to wear layers. Some neighborhoods are warm, but many are chilly and foggy. Anytime you are near the water especially, bring a coat, it is often very windy. There’s a reason why Fisherman’s Wharf makes a fortune selling hoodies to tourists who only packed shorts and t-shirts!

Fort Point- Get a unique ground view of The Golden Gate Bridge, from Fort Point. This historic fort sits at sea level under the base of the bridge. Watch as boats and kayakers navigate the bay, hear cars traveling overhead, as you take in the breathtaking view of this massive, brilliantly colored San Francisco landmark. Go up to the roof of the fort for the best view.

The fort itself is interesting to view. Standing long before the Golden Gate Bridge ever existed the brick fort took eight years to build, starting in 1853 and completed in 1861. It was the only fort of its kind on the West Coast and was thought to be key to defense for the entire Pacific Coastline. When designing the Golden Gate Bridge engineer Joseph Strauss refused to tear down Fort Point, its architectural and historical value was too important, so he designed the bridge around it. Today, it is a California Historical Landmark.

Twin Peaks- We go from sea level to a much higher point, Twin Peaks. These large twin hills are a popular tourist destination, in fact, tour busses can usually be found on the northern hill. Once at Twin Peaks you will see the reason why the view is outstanding! Twin Peaks is the second-highest point in San Francisco (Mt. Davidson is the highest) and offers a 180-degree view of San Francisco from the popular north peak overlook.

For an even better view, walk up the trail of the other peak, which offers a full 360-degree view of San Francisco. This peak, underused by tourists, gives a glimpse of how San Francisco looked before development. View indigenous plants such as coyote brush, lizard tail, lupine. As well as animal life, coyote, rabbits, sparrows, and the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly.

Bay Cruise- One of the best ways to view San Francisco is from the bay itself. The Red and White and Blue and Gold Fleets both offer Bay Cruises with fantastic views of the city skyline, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the waterfront. An hour-long cruise takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz back to the waterfront with views of the Bay Bridge and Coit Tower peeking out from Telegraph Hill. If you tend to get seasick, as I do, it helps to go to the front of the ferry, especially if the water is choppy. Usually, the water is calmer once you get past the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fort Funston- For a different type of view head out to Fort Funston, located off of Skyline Blvd., to view hang gliders in action! Due to constant winds off the cliffs, Fort Funston is a popular hang glider spot. Watch as they run and jump off the edge of the bluff, and soar in the high winds.

Explore sand dunes and trails, if you are up for a very challenging hike, climb to the beach below but do be aware it’s a tough hike back up! Also, as with any part of Ocean Beach, the riptide is treacherous here, so be safe as you have fun in this exciting landscape. It’s a good place to bring your dog if you have a furry four-legged in the family.

Vermont Street-Not into the tourist crowds but still want to visit one of San Francisco’s crooked streets? Head over to Vermont St., located in the Potrero District. This street may not be paved with red bricks like its famous cousin Lombard Street, but it is actually the most crooked street in the city and some say the world. While at the top enjoy views of the city, then head down for the crooked ride!

Beach Chalet- After a busy day viewing sites, take a break at the Beach Chalet located on Great Highway. Sit comfortably and enjoy viewing the long stretch of Ocean Beach across the street while enjoying local cuisine and spirits at this popular brewpub and restaurant.

Before making your way upstairs to the dining room, explore the visitor center on the first floor. View the mural painted by artist Lucien Labaudt, who also painted similar murals at Coit Tower. The detailed mural depicts life in San Francisco in the 1930s. Historical artifacts, many from the 1894 Mid-Winter Exposition can be viewed as well. There is even a small gift shop.

No matter where you go in San Francisco there is always something more to see, the city offers a diverse range of activities and adventures and so many views!