Baker Beach: A Scenic Gem of San Francisco
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Baker Beach in San Francisco, where golden sands meet stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Baker Beach offers visitors stunning views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, golden sands, and scenic cliffs, making it a must-visit destination in San Francisco. Perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and photography, this picturesque beach invites tourists to unwind amid breathtaking natural beauty.
A brief summary to Baker Beach
- San Francisco, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are no food vendors nearby.
- Wear layers, as the coastal weather can change quickly.
- Be mindful of strong currents if you decide to swim.
- Capture sunset photos for a truly unforgettable experience.
Getting There
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Public Transportation
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the Downtown Berkeley BART station located at 2140 Shattuck Ave. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. Ride for approximately 20 minutes and get off at the Embarcadero station. Transfer to the Muni Metro at the Embarcadero station and take the N Judah line towards Ocean Beach. After about 30 minutes, get off at the Judah & 48th Ave stop. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to Baker Beach. Head west on Judah Street, then turn left on 48th Avenue, which leads directly to Baker Beach.
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Bus
From the Berkeley campus or downtown area, walk to the nearest AC Transit bus stop. Take the 51B bus towards San Francisco. After approximately 40 minutes, get off at the stop at 30th Ave & Geary Blvd. From there, transfer to the 5R bus towards the Richmond District. Ride for 10 more minutes, then disembark at Geary Blvd & 48th Ave. Baker Beach is a 5-minute walk from there. Walk down 48th Ave until you reach the beach entrance.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops in Berkeley. Head towards the Bay Trail bike path and follow the path west. Continue along the trail, which will take you through scenic views towards San Francisco. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and follow the signs towards Baker Beach. The ride is approximately 8 miles and will take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.
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Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk to Baker Beach. Start from the UC Berkeley campus, head west on campus towards the Berkeley Marina. Walk along the shoreline, following the paths that lead to the Golden Gate Bridge. Once you reach the bridge, cross it on foot; it takes about 30 minutes to walk across. After crossing, follow the signs to Baker Beach, which is a short walk from the bridge.
Discover more about Baker Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Cliff
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Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
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Pershing Square
2.2 km
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Presidio of San Francisco (California Historical Landmark #79)
2.7 km
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Wayburn Redwood Grove
2.8 km
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Golden Gate Bridge
3.0 km
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California Historical Landmark 760: Laurel Hill Cemetery Site
3.2 km
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Lombard Gate Presidio
3.2 km
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Palace of Fine Arts
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Sundial
3.3 km
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Dutch Windmill
3.4 km
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501 Stanyan St
3.5 km
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McLaren Lodge
3.5 km
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Alvord Lake Bridge
3.7 km
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1709 Broderick St
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lands End Trail Eagles Point
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Lincoln Park Playground
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Strauss Statue
1.8 km
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Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center
1.8 km
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Legion of Honor
1.8 km
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San Francisco National Cemetery
2.0 km
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Fort Point National Historic Site
2.0 km
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Warming Hut Park Store
2.0 km
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Crissy Field
2.0 km
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Ecology Trail
2.2 km
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Presidio Officers' Club
2.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Chapeau
2.3 km
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Spruce
2.8 km
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Atelier Crenn
4.2 km
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Nopa
4.6 km
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State Bird Provisions
4.6 km
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The Progress
4.6 km
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Petit Crenn
5.4 km
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Suppenküche
5.4 km
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Street Restaurant and Bar
5.4 km
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Acquerello
5.5 km
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a Mano
5.6 km
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Starbelly
5.6 km
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Monsieur Benjamin
5.6 km
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Chez Maman West
5.6 km
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Blind Butcher
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Golden Hour
2.3 km
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Foggy Notion
2.3 km
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Button Down
3.1 km
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Land of the Sun
3.9 km
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San Francisco Mercantile
4.0 km
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Things Lucky Handicraft
4.1 km
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Held Over
4.1 km
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Welcome Haight & Ashbury
4.1 km
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True
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Current
4.3 km
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Nikoniko Gifts
4.3 km
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post.script.
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FRAME
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The Perish Trust
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Rare Device
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brioche Bakery & Cafe
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The Interval at Long Now
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
5.2 km
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Noc Noc
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Bar Iris
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Smuggler's Cove
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Kozy Kar
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Tara Indian Cuisine
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Blackbird
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Rye Cocktail Bar
6.1 km
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ABV
6.2 km
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Bourbon & Branch
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Dahlia SF
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Sweetie's Art Bar
6.3 km
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Owl Tree
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