The Pacific Ocean and its strong waves hitting the cliff of the west coast. The ships coming from far away and that make their way into the bay. The surfers who look for the best wave. The tourists who compete for the best shot of the west façade of the Golden Gate Bride. The kids running after each other (or after their dog) on the beach. The older kids playing Frisbee bare naked in the sand. The runners keeping shape by making their way from the trees area to the Dutch Windmill landmark in south-west Golden Gate Park
This, and much more, you can find it when visiting the area located around the Cliff House.
Where is it located? The Cliff House is located at 1090 Point Lobos Avenue.
What to see?
- Walking and running paths
- The Cliff House
- Sutro Baths
- Great view on the Pacific Ocean
- Great view on the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marine County
How to get there? By public transit: Take the #18 or #38 bus to Geary and 48th. The #1 California
How to come back downtown? A suggestion if you want to take a new road: go to The Playa St. (parallel to the beach and very close to it) and get on a bus #5 that drives on Fulton St. This way you can get off whenever you feel like enjoying a few minutes in beautiful Golden Gate Park!
When to go? Out of a doubt, you want to go on a sunny and bright day. Not a foggy one. This way you can enjoy a wonderful view on the horizon, see the sun shining on the Pacific Ocean , check for shipping boats approaching the bay and most of all, take good pictures of this magical scenery.
What type of person would like it the most? I’m very tented to say “everyone”… and I really mean it… but here are some ways you can enjoy it depending of your lifestyle and preferences!
- If you’re into photography, this is a “must-see” place! You can take very interesting photos of the Golden Gate Bridge
- If you like going for an easy hike while being in a magnificent natural environment, this is for you: put on your walking shoes and plan about 2 hours to enjoy the area. You can walk on the Merry Way.
- If you’re more the type of person who likes to stay inside, chill out with a drink and take one or two photos through the windows, you’ll be served my friend: bring your credit card or maybe around $20 to $40 per person, your patience (no reservation can be made at the Cliff House and it’s a touristic (and touristy!) place so line ups are something very possible) and your camera to make it an unforgettable experience!
- If you plan on making time to think or to meditate, it can be a very inspiring site! Bring a towel you can put on the ground, wear warm clothes (including a hat and gloves because the wind from the ocean can make it chilly even on a sunny day), bring a light snack and discover the area for about an hour before choosing the most significant spot for you to sit down, relax and enjoy the moment while facing the sunny ocean.
- If you go with a group of friends: bring a Frisbee or a football ball and enjoy a game on the beach!
How much does it cost? The site is free! You only need to pay for transportation, and maybe food and drinks. If you go by bus, it’s only $2 for the ride and it doesn’t take too long, especially if you make the journey to get there as something fun in looking at all the life going along Geary St. If you feel like having a drink or appetizers at the Cliff House, this is a very good idea... but plan a little bit more on your budget - it's a touristic and touristy place, thus more expensive!
What did I like the most of this place? To be impressed by the strength of the waves constantly hitting the rude cliff, to feel happiness because of this warm sun waving at me in this beautiful Sunday afternoon, to be surprised by the delicious smell of the trees on the walking path, to write my name on the sand of the beach… and to take tons of photos!
The Cliff House:
Merry Way:
The Lands End Trail:
To plan your bus ride:
And now… indulge San Francisco! ;-)
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