Crissy Field: A Waterfront Jewel
Experience iconic Golden Gate Bridge views, sandy beaches, and vibrant recreation at this revitalized San Francisco waterfront park.
Crissy Field, nestled on the northern edge of San Francisco in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, boasts a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a tidal marsh and estuary used by the Ohlone people, the area was later filled in and became a U.S. Army airfield in 1919. Named in honor of Major Dana H. Crissy, who died in a plane crash, the airfield played a vital role in early military aviation. After closing as an airfield in 1974, Crissy Field underwent a remarkable restoration from 1998 to 2001. The transformation resulted in a vibrant 100-acre park with a mile-long waterfront, linking open spaces and enhancing public access to the shoreline. Today, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll along the Golden Gate Promenade, explore the restored Crissy Marsh, and relax on the beaches. Crissy Field offers a diverse range of activities, including walking, biking, bird watching, and picnicking. The park also features the Crissy Field Center, which provides environmental education programs for youth. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, Crissy Field is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Local tips
- Dress in layers, as Crissy Field can be windy and chilly, especially in the afternoon.
- Visit during the early morning for a quieter walk and the best chance to see the beach at its widest during low tide.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching at Crissy Marsh and Quartermaster Reach Marsh.
- Check out the Warming Hut Park Store for snacks, coffee, and souvenirs.
- Take advantage of the free parking at East Beach, but arrive early as it can fill up quickly.
A brief summary to Crissy Field
- San Francisco, Presidio of San Francisco, California, 94129, US
- +1415-561-4323
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni Route 30 Stockton bus to the Mason Street & Yacht Road stop. From there, it's a short walk to Crissy Field. The bus fare is approximately $3. The journey takes about 32 minutes and buses depart every 20 minutes.
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Walking
If you are near the Marina Green, you can walk west along the waterfront to Crissy Field. The Golden Gate Promenade/Bay Trail provides a scenic and easy walking route. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay.
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Driving
From Lombard Street, head north on Lyon Street, then turn left onto Marina Boulevard. Continue onto Mason Street, following signs for Crissy Field. There is free parking at the Crissy Field East Beach parking lot and paid parking at the Crissy Field West Bluff Picnic Area. Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so arrive early. Note that tolls are collected on the Golden Gate Bridge heading into San Francisco. As of July 2025, solo drivers pay $9.40 with FasTrak or $9.70 without.
