Ocean Beach: San Francisco's Wild Pacific Edge
Experience San Francisco's untamed side at Ocean Beach: a stunning coastal escape with dramatic surf, scenic views, and rich history.
Ocean Beach, a 3.5-mile stretch along San Francisco's western coast, offers a dramatic Pacific experience. Known for its strong currents and surf culture, it's a place for strolling, kite flying, and enjoying the sunset, with the iconic Cliff House and Sutro Baths ruins nearby.
A brief summary to Ocean Beach
- San Francisco, California, US
Local tips
- Dress warmly, as Ocean Beach is often foggy and windy, even in summer.
- Check for fire pit availability and regulations if you plan a bonfire.
- Be cautious of strong rip currents and avoid swimming unless you are an experienced surfer.
- Visit during the weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- Explore the northern end near the Cliff House for historical landmarks and scenic views.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni Metro N-Judah line directly to Ocean Beach. The N-Judah line runs from Embarcadero station to the Judah/La Playa/Ocean Beach station. Alternatively, the 38-Geary bus runs from Market Street to the Cliff House. A single ride on Muni costs $3.
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Walking
If you are already in the Outer Sunset or Richmond districts, Ocean Beach is easily accessible by foot. Head west towards the Great Highway and you'll reach the beach. Be mindful of street crossings and pedestrian signals.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from downtown to Ocean Beach typically costs between $24 and $29, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
From downtown, take Geary Boulevard or Lincoln Way west towards the ocean. Parking is available in lots at Sloat Boulevard and along the Great Highway. Parking is free, but can be limited during peak hours and special events. Street parking is also available on neighboring streets. Be sure to lock your vehicle and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
Discover more about Ocean Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dutch Windmill
1.2 km
Discover the charming Dutch Windmill in Golden Gate Park, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Sea Cliff
3.5 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.
Sundial
5.0 km
Discover the Sundial in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco—a historic landmark blending beauty and nature in one serene experience.
Alvord Lake Bridge
5.0 km
Explore the beauty of Alvord Lake Bridge in Golden Gate Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in San Francisco.
501 Stanyan St
5.1 km
Explore the architectural elegance of 501 Stanyan St in Golden Gate Park, where nature and history intertwine in the heart of San Francisco.
McLaren Lodge
5.1 km
Discover the historic McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park, home to the SF Recreation & Parks Department and a monument to John McLaren's vision, showcasing stunning Richardsonian Romanesque architecture.
Sutro Tower
5.1 km
Discover Sutro Tower, the iconic communications hub in San Francisco offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich landscape.
Mt. Davidson Cross
5.4 km
Discover panoramic views and a rich history at the Mount Davidson Cross, a San Francisco landmark honoring the Armenian Genocide and hosting annual Easter sunrise services.
Twin Peaks
5.6 km
Experience San Francisco's most breathtaking panoramic views from Twin Peaks, where the city, bay, and ocean converge in a stunning display of natural and urban beauty.
1524 Haight St
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant heart of San Francisco's counterculture at the iconic Haight-Ashbury building, steeped in history and creativity.
Janis Joplin's House
5.7 km
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Haight-Ashbury Clock
5.7 km
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Grateful Dead House
5.7 km
Explore the iconic Grateful Dead House in Haight-Ashbury, a historical landmark that celebrates the legacy of a generation-defining rock band.
Buena Vista Park
6.1 km
Discover San Francisco's oldest park, a hilltop oasis with winding trails, panoramic city views, and a unique history, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
6.2 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge at the Vista Point in San Francisco, a must-visit for any traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen Wilhelmina Garden
1.2 km
Explore the tranquil Queen Wilhelmina Garden in Golden Gate Park, a botanical haven with vibrant flowers and a charming windmill.
Bison Paddock
1.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park, a unique wildlife attraction showcasing American bison in a stunning natural setting.
Sutro Heights
2.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Sutro Heights, a serene park offering stunning ocean views and remnants of a historic estate.
Sutro Heights Park (main entrance)
2.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Sutro Heights Park, a must-visit green oasis in San Francisco offering stunning ocean views.
Sutro Baths
2.4 km
Discover the historical Sutro Baths, a unique blend of ruins and coastal hiking trails in San Francisco, revealing the city's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Golden Gate Park
2.7 km
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Legion of Honor
2.9 km
Experience the elegance of the Legion of Honor, a premier art museum in San Francisco showcasing European masterpieces and breathtaking views.
Lincoln Park Playground
2.9 km
Discover Lincoln Park Playground – a family-friendly haven in San Francisco, with play areas for kids and stunning views of the Pacific and Golden Gate Bridge.
San Francisco Zoo
3.0 km
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Strawberry Hill
3.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Chapeau
5.1 km
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Champa Garden Restaurant
5.9 km
Experience authentic Laotian and Thai cuisine at Champa Garden Restaurant in San Francisco - where every dish tells a story.
Spruce
6.0 km
Discover Spruce: A premier New American restaurant in San Francisco's Presidio Heights serving exquisite seasonal cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Fable
6.6 km
Discover Fable in San Francisco's Castro district - where Californian flavors meet sustainability in an enchanting dining atmosphere.
Nopa
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Nopa in San Francisco's Alamo Square, where organic ingredients meet Mediterranean flair.
Blind Butcher
6.7 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Blind Butcher in San Francisco's lively Castro district - where fresh ingredients meet creative flair.
Starbelly
6.9 km
Experience fresh Californian cuisine at Starbelly in San Francisco's Castro district - where seasonal ingredients meet innovative flavors.
Burma Silver Star Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience authentic Burmese cuisine at Burma Silver Star Restaurant in Daly City - a hidden gem for food lovers seeking unique flavors.
Los Cuernos
7.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Cuernos in Daly City – where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
House Of Fusion
7.3 km
Discover delicious sushi and Asian cuisine at House Of Fusion in Daly City - a culinary gem blending tradition with creativity.
State Bird Provisions
7.3 km
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The Progress
7.3 km
Discover innovative Californian cuisine at The Progress in San Francisco’s charming Fillmore District—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Top of the Hill
7.4 km
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Pacific Restaurant
7.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Pacific Restaurant in Daly City – a culinary gem that delights every palate.
Goldilocks Bakeshop and Restaurant
7.4 km
Experience authentic Filipino flavors at Goldilocks Bakeshop & Restaurant in Daly City – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Golden Hour
5.1 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique finds at The Golden Hour, San Francisco's charming vintage clothing store in the heart of Richmond District.
Foggy Notion
5.1 km
Explore Foggy Notion, a charming boutique in San Francisco, offering a captivating selection of unique gifts and artisanal treasures.
Land of the Sun
5.4 km
Explore the vibrant Land of the Sun gift shop in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco, for unique clothing, accessories, and local souvenirs that capture the city's spirit.
San Francisco Mercantile
5.5 km
Explore the essence of San Francisco at San Francisco Mercantile, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local artisan creations in Haight-Ashbury.
Held Over
5.7 km
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Welcome Haight & Ashbury
5.7 km
Explore the heart of Haight-Ashbury with unique gifts and local treasures at Welcome Haight & Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic visitor center.
Things Lucky Handicraft
5.7 km
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True
5.8 km
Discover unique fashion at True Clothing in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic store for eclectic styles and local designer pieces.
Button Down
6.3 km
Explore Button Down, a charming clothing store in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, offering unique apparel and accessories for the fashion-savvy traveler.
Local Take
6.6 km
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Rare Device
6.7 km
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The Perish Trust
6.7 km
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Chocolate Covered
6.9 km
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Life
7.0 km
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COVE
7.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brioche Bakery & Cafe
5.5 km
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Ocean Ale House
6.1 km
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Friends Bar
6.3 km
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Tara Indian Cuisine
7.0 km
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Noc Noc
7.1 km
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Blackbird
7.2 km
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Nick & Nora
7.3 km
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A R
7.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and unique drink selection at A R, a favorite bar in Daly City, California.
Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill
7.4 km
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Thai Power Restaurant
7.5 km
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The Connection
7.7 km
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ABV
7.7 km
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Recovery Room
7.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse menu at Recovery Room, a premier bar and restaurant in San Francisco's Mission Terrace neighborhood.
Bottoms Up Bar & Lounge
7.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance and extensive drink menu at Bottoms Up Bar & Lounge, a must-visit destination for nightlife in San Francisco.
Rocks Den
7.7 km
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