Marin Headlands: Coastal Vistas and Historic Echoes
Explore the Marin Headlands: where stunning Golden Gate views meet rugged coastline, historic sites, and endless outdoor adventures just north of San Francisco.
Just north of San Francisco, across the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands offer a stunning blend of dramatic coastal scenery, rich history, and outdoor activities. Explore rugged cliffs, historic military sites, and diverse hiking trails in this unique section of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
A brief summary to Marin Headlands
- California, US
- +1415-561-4700
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as fog and wind can change rapidly. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- Bring your own water and snacks, as there are limited options for purchasing food within the Headlands.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike, as trails can be steep and uneven.
- Visit the Marin Headlands Visitor Center to learn about the area's history, geology, and wildlife.
- Consider taking the free weekend shuttle to avoid parking hassles and explore different areas of the Headlands.
Getting There
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Driving
From San Francisco, cross the Golden Gate Bridge heading north. Take the first exit, Alexander Avenue, immediately after the bridge. Turn left onto Bunker Road and proceed through the Baker-Barry Tunnel. Follow Bunker Road to access various points of interest within the Headlands. Be aware that Conzelman Road, offering scenic views, is a one-way road in certain sections. Parking is available at various lots throughout the Headlands, including Rodeo Beach, Battery Spencer, and Hawk Hill. Parking fees may apply. Limited parking is available, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or using alternative transportation.
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Public Transport
From San Francisco, take Golden Gate Transit Route 101, 132, or 150 to the Spencer Avenue Bus Pad in Sausalito. From there, you can access the Morning Sun Trailhead for hiking into the Headlands. Alternatively, during certain times, the 76X Muni route may operate from San Francisco to the Fort Cronkhite parking lot, but this route is currently suspended. Check the SFMTA website for updates. Another option is to take a ferry to Sausalito and then connect with Marin Transit Route 61, though this route primarily serves areas further north.
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Ride-sharing
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at various locations in the Marin Headlands, such as the Marin Headlands Visitor Center or Rodeo Beach. However, be aware that cell service can be unreliable in certain areas, making it difficult to request a ride for your return trip. Expect a fare of $65 - $80 for a taxi from South San Francisco Station (BART) to Marin Headlands.
Discover more about Marin Headlands
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Golden Gate Bridge
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of the Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic symbol of San Francisco and a must-see for every traveler.
Strauss Statue
4.9 km
Explore the Strauss Statue in San Francisco's Presidio—a tribute to the visionary behind the Golden Gate Bridge, blending history, art, and stunning views.
Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
4.9 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge at the Vista Point in San Francisco, a must-visit for any traveler.
Landmarks China Cabin
6.0 km
Discover the historic elegance of the China Cabin, a unique event venue in Belvedere Tiburon, rich with captivating history and stunning architecture.
Sea Cliff
6.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sea Cliff in San Francisco, where breathtaking ocean views and serene parks provide a perfect escape from city life.
Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum
6.7 km
Discover the rich history of Tiburon at the Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum, a charming destination for history lovers and curious travelers.
Pershing Square
6.7 km
Explore the historical marvels of Pershing Square in San Francisco's Presidio, a serene destination rich in culture, stunning views, and engaging stories.
Wayburn Redwood Grove
6.8 km
Explore the breathtaking tranquility of Wayburn Redwood Grove, a serene park in San Francisco's Presidio, surrounded by majestic redwoods and natural beauty.
Presidio of San Francisco (California Historical Landmark #79)
6.8 km
Explore the Presidio of San Francisco, a historical landmark blending military history with breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Old St. Hilary's Historic Preserve
6.8 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Old St. Hilary's Historic Preserve, a hidden gem in Belvedere Tiburon, California.
Palace of Fine Arts
7.1 km
A San Francisco architectural masterpiece originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, offering a serene escape with its iconic rotunda, colonnades, and tranquil lagoon.
The Wave Organ
7.4 km
Discover the Wave Organ in San Francisco: an acoustic sculpture where the ocean plays music, offering stunning views and a unique sensory experience on the city's waterfront.
Lombard Gate Presidio
7.5 km
Discover the historic Lombard Gate in San Francisco's Presidio: a charming landmark offering scenic views, access to trails, and a glimpse into the area's rich military past and natural beauty.
Marina Airfield Historical Marker
7.5 km
Discover San Francisco's aviation history at the Marina Airfield Historical Marker, a tribute to early airmail and helicopter innovation along the scenic San Francisco Bay Trail.
Dutch Windmill
7.6 km
Discover the charming Dutch Windmill in Golden Gate Park, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marin Headlands Visitor Center
1.2 km
Explore the Marin Headlands Visitor Center for stunning views, engaging exhibits, and unforgettable hiking adventures in California's coastal paradise.
The Marine Mammal Center
1.5 km
Explore The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California, and witness the rescue and rehabilitation efforts for marine mammals while enjoying stunning coastal views.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
1.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a top tourist attraction in California.
Nike Missile Site SF-88L
1.7 km
Discover the Nike Missile Site SF-88L in Mill Valley, CA, where history and breathtaking views merge in a unique Cold War experience.
Baker-Barry Tunnel
2.5 km
Discover the historic Baker-Barry Tunnel in Sausalito, a captivating landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into California's rich history.
Golden Gate View Point
2.8 km
Discover unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge at this scenic viewpoint in Mill Valley, a must-visit for every traveler exploring California's stunning landscapes.
Point Bonita Lighthouse
2.9 km
Explore the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse nestled in the Marin Headlands, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Tennessee Valley Trailhead
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and coastal views at Tennessee Valley Trailhead in Mill Valley, a must-visit for outdoor lovers exploring California's natural beauty.
Fort Baker
3.2 km
Explore Fort Baker in Sausalito, California: A historical landmark with stunning views and rich military heritage perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Essential places to dine
Chapeau
7.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Chapeau in San Francisco's Richmond District, where elegance meets exceptional flavors.
Spruce
7.9 km
Discover Spruce: A premier New American restaurant in San Francisco's Presidio Heights serving exquisite seasonal cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Atelier Crenn
8.3 km
Experience the artistry of French cuisine at Atelier Crenn, where each dish tells a unique story crafted by Chef Dominique Crenn.
Capurro's Restaurant
9.0 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Gary Danko
9.1 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Cioppino's
9.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Surisan
9.3 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
9.4 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
Street Restaurant and Bar
9.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Street Restaurant and Bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch—where every dish tells a story.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
9.4 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
State Bird Provisions
9.5 km
Discover innovative American cuisine with a Californian twist at State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Fillmore District.
The Progress
9.5 km
Discover innovative Californian cuisine at The Progress in San Francisco’s charming Fillmore District—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Fior d'Italia
9.7 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
9.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
9.8 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ground
6.3 km
Explore Ground, your ultimate garden center in Belvedere Tiburon, offering a stunning selection of plants and home goods for every nature enthusiast.
Foggy Notion
7.8 km
Explore Foggy Notion, a charming boutique in San Francisco, offering a captivating selection of unique gifts and artisanal treasures.
The Golden Hour
7.8 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique finds at The Golden Hour, San Francisco's charming vintage clothing store in the heart of Richmond District.
Button Down
8.1 km
Explore Button Down, a charming clothing store in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, offering unique apparel and accessories for the fashion-savvy traveler.
Current
8.3 km
Explore San Francisco's Current Boutique for unique women's fashion, from chic dresses to stylish accessories in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Nikoniko Gifts
8.4 km
Explore Nikoniko Gifts, a charming San Francisco gift shop offering unique souvenirs and local artisan creations that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Lola of North Beach
8.9 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
8.9 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
FRAME
9.0 km
Explore FRAME in Pacific Heights, a chic clothing store offering a curated collection of contemporary fashion for every style.
post.script.
9.0 km
Explore post.script., a charming gift shop in San Francisco offering unique greeting cards and stationery, perfect for any occasion or souvenir.
Frank's Fisherman
9.2 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Safe Harbor
9.2 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
9.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Shop the City
9.4 km
Elevate your wardrobe with personalized styling at Shop the City - a hub for fashion lovers seeking unique local trends.
Molte Cose
9.4 km
Discover unique gifts and clothing at Molte Cose, a charming shop in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, perfect for memorable souvenirs and local finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Interval at Long Now
8.1 km
Discover The Interval at Long Now: a San Francisco cocktail bar that fuses mixology with thought-provoking exhibits, perfect for curious travelers.
Bar Iris
9.3 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of cocktails and Japanese cuisine at Bar Iris, a must-visit culinary gem in San Francisco's Polk Gulch.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
9.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Brioche Bakery & Cafe
9.6 km
Indulge in artisanal pastries and exceptional brunch at Brioche Bakery & Cafe, a must-visit gem in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
9.6 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
Luau Lounge
9.7 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
9.7 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Sweetie's Art Bar
9.8 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
9.8 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Kozy Kar
9.8 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
Hard Rock Cafe
9.8 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Red Jack Saloon
10.0 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Bodega North Beach
10.0 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Tony Nik's CAFE
10.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
10.4 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
