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Crissy Field: A Coastal Treasure

Experience San Francisco's coastal haven with Golden Gate views: walk, bike, explore beaches, and discover history at Crissy Field.

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Crissy Field, a former military airfield transformed into a stunning waterfront park, offers iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. This restored national park site features beaches, picnic areas, a tidal marsh, and a promenade perfect for walking and biking. With a rich history and diverse recreational opportunities, Crissy Field is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Crissy Field

Local tips

  • Bring layers, as Crissy Field can be windy and cool, especially in the afternoon.
  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and the chance to see the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in mist.
  • Explore the restored tidal marsh and observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.
  • Walk or bike the Golden Gate Promenade for stunning views of the bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline.
  • Check out the Warming Hut cafe for a warm beverage and packaged snacks while enjoying the scenery.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco or the Embarcadero, take the Muni Route 30 Stockton bus to the Crissy Field Terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 32 minutes and costs $3. From the terminal, it's a short walk to Crissy Field's main attractions. Alternatively, the PresidiGo Shuttle offers free service within the Presidio, with routes serving Crissy Field. Check the PresidiGo schedule for the Around the Park routes, Presidio Hills and Crissy Field, for the most up-to-date information.

  • Walking

    If you're near the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, you can walk to Crissy Field via the Golden Gate Promenade. Head east along the promenade, enjoying the views of the bridge and the bay. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes. The promenade is flat and paved, making it an easy walk for most people.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking lots are available near Crissy Field. Free parking is often available at the Crissy Field East Beach parking lot. Additional paid parking can be found across Mason Street and at the Crissy Field West Bluff Picnic Area. Parking rates in paid lots typically range from $1.20 per hour to $7 for all-day parking, enforced on weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM. Be aware that parking can be limited on weekends and sunny days.

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Discover more about Crissy Field

Crissy Field, located on the northern shore of the San Francisco Peninsula, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Once a bustling U.S. Army airfield, this scenic expanse now forms part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, offering visitors an inviting escape with breathtaking views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Originally a tidal marsh used by the Ohlone people for harvesting shellfish and fish, the area was later filled in and used for various purposes, including the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition. In 1919, it became a military airfield, playing a central role in early aviation history. Named in honor of Major Dana H. Crissy, the airfield witnessed long-distance flights and aerial innovations. After ceasing air operations in the 1970s, the site was transformed into a 100-acre national park, opening to the public in 2001. The restoration project included the removal of hazardous materials and the revitalization of tidal marshes, creating a vibrant ecological haven. Today, Crissy Field features beaches, picnic areas, a promenade, and the Crissy Field Center, an environmental education center for youth. Visitors can enjoy walking, biking, bird watching, and simply taking in the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Bay.

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