Golden Gate Overlook
This can’t-miss view features the towers of the Golden Gate Bridge framed between two Cypress trees
Golden Gate Overlook is a curved concrete plaza that hugs the edge of the coastal bluffs, mimicking the design of the former military fortifications and artillery platforms that surround it.
Wooden benches invite you to pause to enjoy a unique viewpoint — both towers of the Golden Gate Bridge perfectly lined up between historic cypress trees. Or look down the hill for a view of native flora and winding footpaths below.
Getting to Golden Gate Overlook
Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129
Why We Love Golden Gate Overlook
Golden Gate Overlook offers more than breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge views. It’s also an access point for the California Coastal Trail and Batteries to Bluffs Trail where you can see historic gun batteries that once defended San Francisco when the Presidio was an Army post.
Accessibility at Golden Gate Overlook
There are two parking spaces at the nearby Langdon Court parking lot for those with mobility limitations. A gravel path connects the parking lot to the paved overlook area.
Insider Tip
After stopping at the Golden Gate Overlook, you can see the bridge from a different angle at the nearby Pacific Overlook — another one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Get to Know Golden Gate Overlook
This scenic vista point and its nearby cousin, the Pacific Overlook, were built in 2012 to honor the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge. Golden Gate Overlook was made possible by a lead challenge match grant from the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund and matching funds from the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation and the California State Coastal Conservancy.
Golden Gate Bridge Views
This overlook offers a unique perspective on the iconic bridge — with both bridge towers aligned between stately Cypress trees. You might even see happy couples posing for engagement and wedding photos here.
Trail Connections
Golden Gate Overlook is one of the best places to start a hike in San Francisco. Three major multi-use park trails converge here: the California Coastal Trail, the Bay Area Ridge Trail and the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail.
Historic Landmarks
To explore historic military sites with sweeping coastal views, take a walk downhill from the Golden Gate Overlook to the rugged Batteries to Bluffs Trail, which connects to Battery Godfrey, Battery Boutelle, Battery Marcus Miller, and Battery Cranston. Learn more about the history of the Presidio.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking for an unexpected angle on the iconic landmark, Golden Gate Overlook offers one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Yes, three trails converge at this Golden Gate Bridge overlook — the California Coastal Trail, the Bay Area Ridge Trail and the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. The Batteries to Bluffs Trail is also a short downhill walk away.
The nearest restaurant to Golden Gate Overlook is the Round House Café. It’s about a 10-minute walk away, via the California Coastal Trail.
The nearest restroom to the Golden Gate Overlook are near the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center about a ten–minute walk away.
Nature Notes
It’s our goal to make sure people can enjoy the Presidio’s natural beauty for generations to come. We work to protect native plants and animals while reducing our impact on the environment.
Revitalizing a Historic Forest
The mature Monterey Cypress trees that frame this overlook are part of the historic forest planted throughout the Presidio by the U.S. Army beginning in the 1880s. We’re preserving the forest as part of the National Historic Landmark while increasing its ecological value by planting native plant species beneath the trees.
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Experience the Presidio
The Presidio is San Francisco’s national park site, with endless trails, fun events, and unforgettable vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge.
