Background

Crissy Field Marsh: A Coastal Wetland Oasis

Explore Crissy Field Marsh: a restored wetland in San Francisco's Presidio with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a rich history.

4.8
Find your perfect hotel, anywhere in the world.

When's your trip?

Who's coming?

Adult (18-90)
Min: 1 Max: 6
Add a child
At least one participant is required. Please adjust and try again.

Crissy Field Marsh, a revitalized 20-acre wetland in San Francisco's Presidio, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Once a military airfield, it was restored in 2001 and now hosts over 100 avian species and nearly 100,000 native plants, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Angel Island.

A brief summary to Crissy Field Marsh

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching; over 100 species have been spotted in the marsh.
  • Visit during low tide to see the beach at its widest and explore the shoreline.
  • Check out the nearby Outpost playground and Presidio Pop Up food trucks for a family-friendly experience.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions; bring a jacket or layers to stay comfortable.
  • Consider walking the full Tennessee Hollow Watershed trail, which starts nearby, for a comprehensive nature experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni 30 Stockton bus to the Mason Street & Halleck Street stop. From there, it's a short walk to Crissy Field Marsh. The Muni 43 also goes to the Presidio Transit Center, where you can transfer to the free PresidiGo shuttle or walk 0.6 miles to the marsh. A single Muni fare is around $3. The PresidiGo shuttle is free.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Presidio, follow Halleck Street from the Presidio Transit Center or walk through Presidio Tunnel Tops to reach Crissy Marsh. From Crissy Field East Beach parking lot, walk along the Golden Gate Promenade towards the Golden Gate Bridge; the marsh will be on your left.

  • Parking

    There is a free Crissy Field parking lot near Crissy Field East Beach. Parking is also available west on Mason Street and at East Beach. Parking at the Presidio Visitor Center costs money. Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so arrive early.

Unlock the Best of Crissy Field Marsh

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Crissy Field Marsh

Crissy Field Marsh, located in the northern part of San Francisco's Presidio, is a testament to successful ecological restoration. This 20-acre marshland, once part of a military airfield, has been transformed into a thriving habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal life. The area's history stretches back to the Ohlone people, who harvested food from the bay. Later, the Spanish arrived in 1776 and called the area “El Presidio”. The U.S. Army took control in 1846, using the tidal wetland as a dumping ground before filling it in to create an aerodrome. In 2001, after extensive cleanup and restoration efforts, Crissy Field Marsh was reborn as a vibrant ecosystem. Today, it plays a vital role in San Francisco's shoreline, providing a crucial stopover for birds along the Pacific Flyway. Visitors can explore the marsh via the Golden Gate Promenade or the boardwalk, taking in views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Angel Island. The marsh also connects to the Tennessee Hollow Watershed, offering a two-mile self-guided trek. Crissy Field offers a variety of activities, including walking, biking, and bird watching. The nearby Crissy Field Center provides educational programs, while the Warming Hut offers refreshments. With its rich history and natural beauty, Crissy Field Marsh is a must-see destination for anyone seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of San Francisco.

Popular Experiences near Crissy Field Marsh

Popular Hotels near Crissy Field Marsh

Select Currency