Baker Beach: Golden Gate Views & Coastal History
Iconic San Francisco beach with Golden Gate views, a rich history, and recreational activities for locals and tourists alike.
Baker Beach, nestled in San Francisco's Presidio, offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. Once a military base, it's now a popular spot for picnics, sunbathing, and enjoying the California coastline. The northern end is known for being clothing-optional.
A brief summary to Baker Beach
- San Francisco, California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early on sunny days and weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the sand.
- Bring a blanket and stay for sunset to witness breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Be aware that the northern end of the beach is clothing-optional.
- Explore the nearby Battery Chamberlin to see a historic disappearing gun.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the tables and BBQ pits available at the beach.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni Route 29 Sunset bus. This bus services the western neighborhoods and stops near Baker Beach. Check the Muni schedule for accurate timings. A single ride fare is about $3.
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Ride Share
From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Lyft/Uber) will cost approximately $25-$30 and take around 11 minutes. This is a direct and convenient option, especially if you are in a group or prefer a quicker journey.
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Walking
For those staying within the Presidio, walking to Baker Beach is a scenic option. From the Presidio Visitor Center, follow the marked trails southwest. The walk is roughly 4.8 miles and should take around 1.5 hours. Enjoy the views of the Golden Gate and the surrounding parkland.
Discover more about Baker Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Cliff
1.0 km
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Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
1.7 km
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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
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Dutch Windmill
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501 Stanyan St
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McLaren Lodge
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Alvord Lake Bridge
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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
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Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center
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Legion of Honor
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San Francisco National Cemetery
2.0 km
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Fort Point National Historic Site
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Warming Hut Park Store
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Crissy Field
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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
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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
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Petit Crenn
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Suppenküche
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Street Restaurant and Bar
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Acquerello
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a Mano
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Starbelly
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Monsieur Benjamin
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Chez Maman West
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Blind Butcher
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Golden Hour
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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
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True
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Current
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Nikoniko Gifts
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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
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
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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
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ABV
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Bourbon & Branch
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Dahlia SF
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Sweetie's Art Bar
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Owl Tree
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