Baker Beach: Golden Gate Views and Coastal History
Iconic San Francisco beach with Golden Gate views, rich history, and recreational activities in a stunning coastal setting.
Baker Beach, located within the Presidio of San Francisco, provides iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. Stretching a mile along the city's western edge, this beach combines natural beauty with a unique history. Originally named Baker's Beach in 1866 after the Baker family who owned a dairy farm in the area, the beach was part of a military base from 1812 until 1997. In 1904, the U.S. Army installed Battery Chamberlin, a disappearing gun installation, to protect the coastline. Visitors can still view this massive weapon, with monthly demonstrations by National Park Service rangers. From 1986 to 1990, Baker Beach was the original site of the Burning Man art festival. Today, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering picnic areas, BBQ grills, and accessible restrooms. The northern end of the beach is known for being clothing-optional. While swimming is discouraged due to dangerous rip currents and a history of shark attacks, Baker Beach remains a prime location for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying the sunset. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Walt Disney Family Museum, Lincoln Park, and the Legion of Honor. Coastal trails offer hiking opportunities with views of the bay, ocean, and Marin Headlands.
Local tips
- Arrive early on sunny days and weekends to secure parking and a good spot on the beach.
- Dress in layers, as San Francisco beaches can be foggy and cool, even in summer.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic views and utilize the available picnic tables and BBQ grills.
- Explore the historic Battery Chamberlin to see the disappearing gun and learn about the area's military past.
- Be aware that the northern end of the beach is clothing-optional.
A brief summary to Baker Beach
- San Francisco, California, US
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the 29-Sunset Muni bus. The bus stops near Baker Beach at Lincoln Boulevard and Bowley Street. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. A single ride on Muni costs $3.
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Ride Share
From anywhere in San Francisco, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get to Baker Beach. The destination is 1770 Gibson Road, San Francisco. A typical ride from Union Square will cost approximately $25-30.
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Walking
If you are near the Presidio, you can walk to Baker Beach. From the Presidio Visitor Center, follow the signs towards Baker Beach. The walk is approximately 4.8 miles and takes about 1.5 hours. Be prepared for some hills and stairs along the way.
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Driving
From downtown San Francisco, take Lincoln Boulevard southwest to Bowley Street. Turn right on Gibson Road and follow the signs to Baker Beach. There are two free parking lots at Baker Beach. Parking is free, but lots can fill up quickly on sunny days.
