San Francisco Beaches
Quality time with friends and family awaits at one of the Presidio's world-class beaches.
Located at the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, the Presidio is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. That adds up to just one thing – beach day!
There are many experiences to be had. Toddlers love the gentle waves of Crissy Field East Beach – and windsurfers love it, too. Or pair a beach day with grilling at Crissy Field West Bluff Picnic Area.
Baker Beach is the park’s most famous beach, a great place to watch the sunset beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Nearby, daring visitors enjoy the seclusion of rugged Marshall’s Beach.
For an entirely different experience, try the tiny beach at Mountain Lake, and let the kids get the wiggles out at the nearby playground.
Despite the occasional fog, Presidio beaches are where San Francisco comes to enjoy a dose of nature and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the beaches in the Presidio are free to visit.
Crissy Field East Beach is probably the most popular for families with young children as parking and restrooms are close by. Baker Beach is also a great choice for families. And while small, Mountain Lake lets kids glimpse a Western Pond turtle or a Chorus frog, and there is a playground nearby.
Yes, there is parking near the Presidio’s beaches with one exception – secluded Marshall’s Beach can only be reached on foot off the rugged Batteries to Bluffs Trail.
We recommend that you pack sunscreen, water, and snacks as many beaches in the Presidio are not near restaurants. You should also bring a jacket as the fog can roll in unexpectedly.
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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.
