How to Visit the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoint (2023) The parking lot is at the end of the road.Parking: Park in the small lot at the trailhead.Features: Historic, active lighthouse with outstanding ocean and Golden Gate Bridge scenic viewpoints. Close-up Golden Gate Bridge photo spot for great views. Check out our top-rated Dylan's Famous San Francisco City Tour for a tour of the Golden Gate Bridge by a local guide! Thanks for signing up. This spot is a favorite for couples taking their wedding photos but isnt overcrowded. One of the easily accessible Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints is the Golden Gate Observation Deck, located higher up on the Conzelman Road access route. best things to do in San Francisco at night, Palm Springs to Joshua Tree: How to Make the Most Out of Your Trip, 10 Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoor Activities (2023 Buying Guide), 17 Best Camping Tables for Cooking & Eating in the Wilderness. After being lucky to have experienced the gorgeous views myself, I have curated this guide to the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints to help you find those iconic bridge experiences. You can enjoy stunning Golden Gate Bridge views across a grassy field along the beach, where lush mountains and the ocean form the perfect backdrops. You can get a good shot of the Golden Gate Bridge from here too, often with sailboats gliding by. Second, depending on where you're coming from and going as part of your visit, you'll have to pay the Golden Gate Bridge toll which is not cheap! Since this viewpoint is at the same level as the bridge, youll look up at the structure rather than down like you would on the Conzelman Road vantage points on the other side of the freeway. THE SOLO GLOBETROTTER IS A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON.COM SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR SITES TO EARN ADVERTISING FEES BY ADVERTISING AND LINKING TO AMAZON.COM AND AFFILIATED SITES. Distance from Golden Gate Bridge: 2.1 milesAddress/GPS coordinates: China Beach, 340 Sea Cliff Ave., San Francisco, (37.7881634, -122.4907467)How to get there: Take the stairs down to the beach from Seacliff Ave.Parking: Park in the parking area at the intersection of Seacliff Ave and Camino Del Mar.Features: Small, quiet beach tucked between the popular Baker Beach and Lands End. Today, the Golden Gate Bridge is recognized as one of the seven modern wonders of the world. Hike up to Slackers Hill and be rewarded with 360-degree views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge from the Marin side. You can also explore the miniature marine worlds in the tide pools that form at low tide. You can even soar high above the bridge in a private helicopter tour if you want to splurge. Hawk Hill is a bit farther along Conzelman Road, but its worth visiting. She is the founder of The Solo Globetrotter, a site for solo travelers, female travelers wanting to travel independently, and those wishing to travel on a budget or go flashpacking. Luckily, Hawk Hill does have a small parking lot, making it the most convenient, as well as potentially the best viewpoint of the Golden Gate Bridge. The brick arches of Fort Point offer an interesting visual counterpoint to the criss-cross structures of the Golden Gate Bridge, which towers over the fortress. Golden Gate Transit buses (owned by the Bridge District) connect Sausalito and points north with San Francisco, allowing you to get to the Golden Gate Bridge in each direction. Transfer to the #28 bus northbound to get to the Golden Gate Bridge. You have the option of driving along US-101. One of the farthest Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints is Hawk Hill. Compared to the Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point, you will see the reverse views, which are equally stunning. One of the historical attractions in San Francisco, Coit Tower, may not be the first thing one can think of while looking for the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints, but it is worth adding to your list. 18 BEST Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoints (Postcard Perfect Views) The next viewpoint. Good to know There are not many options for dining, so make sure to carry snacks, drinks, and water. The Fort is massive and needs sufficient time to explore, so leave time for that apart from being here for the views of the Golden Gate Bridge. She has been traveling alone for over 6 years, currently having explored over 35+ countries. If the tide is low, you can walk up to Fort Point, but you will have to take the same way to come back. They organize seasonal guided tours, so time your visit around it, especially the Fort Point candlelight tours. Distance across the Golden Gate Bridge: 1.7 miles (one way) Ghirardelli Square to Sausalito: 8.5 miles (one way) Ghirardelli Square to the Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoint: 6 miles one way, 12 miles round trip On a sunny day, youll see sand, surf, and the Golden Gate Bridge stretching out over the ocean to San Francisco. To get here, cross the Bridge to Marin County towards the Marin Headlands Coastal Route. Unfortunately, sometimes the swing gets cut down or temporarily goes missing, which goes back up later. One of my Instagram buddies who is not from the US recently asked me about the Golden Gate Bridge and why it's such "a thing". Best Golden Gate Bridge View and Photo Spots - OurSausalito.com This popular photography spot used to feature a swing but it has now been dismantled by the park service. We compiled a handy list of essential places to visit for first-time visitors. Fort Point was constructed in 1853 at this exact location to protect San Francisco Bay during the Gold Rush to get better sight for tackling the enemy ships at the water level. Golden Gate Transit ( Bus Schedules & Maps ): To/from Downtown or Union Square: Board any GGT bus (Routes 101, 130, and 150) at Salesforce Transit Center (Bus Plaza, Bay A) or along Mission Street (north side of the street, GGT marked stops only). Through this blog The Solo Globetrotter, my goal is to provide you with very valuable tips to help you plan epic trips to popular and hidden gem destinations around the world. The Golden Gate Bridge, which took just four years to build, has also withstood two major earthquakes. Pedestrians and cyclists cross for free, drivers pay a toll going from the north side back to the city. Enjoy picturesque trails and vista points in one of the world's largest national parks in an urban area. If you plan to walk, you can begin from the San Francisco side and after reaching the Marin Headlands, get back on a ferry. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see the Golden Gate Bridge when the light casts a golden hue over the landscape. Many people argue that it is in fact THE MOST SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE BRIDGE, but I . You will see the distinct views of the rocky cliffs along the shores, the beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge(if the fog favours you), and the San Francisco Bay. Both are great spots for a pleasant stroll in the evening and offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. You also agree to our Terms of Use and our use of your information as set forth in our Privacy Policy. This guide also includes the faraway Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints and the local viewpoints for the Golden Gate Bridge unknown to tourists. By submitting your email address you agree to our Terms of Use You can get the gorgeous views of the bridge from end to end here, along with the ocean views, the pier in the foreground and the bridge in the background. Address Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States, Distance from Golden Gate Bridge 0.6 miles. This family-friendly destination offers picnic spots, walking trails, and a chance to watch kite surfers in action. Distance from Golden Gate Bridge 3.2 miles, Parking Free parking at Conzelman Road Parking Lot. Now's the time to photograph the bridge with the city skyline . Take a seat at the water's edge and gaze up at the bridge with the sun setting behind for a spectacular and unforgettable show. Always open Free to enter Information from my visit in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2020 History Back in the early 1900s, Battery Spencer was one of the main protection points for the San Francisco Bay. Battery Spencer: The Best Viewpoint for the Golden Gate Bridge Late afternoon is the best time to enjoy the views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Hawk Hill. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. Here are the 8 absolute best places to see the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. Sarah McDonald is a travel writer based in the Bay Area. Located above Fort Point National Historic Site is the Battery East Vista, one of the underrated Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints. If you take a night tour, you can get an amazing photograph of the sun setting behind the bridge. Now, tourists walk by the abandoned outpost to enjoy beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and beyond. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! How to get there From the parking lot at El Camino Del Mar, take the Lands End Trail down the steps and out to the lookout. Battery Spencer is the easiest and most accessible spot for getting one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Marin Headlands. Crissy Field You dont need reservations. You will encounter many incredible viewpoints along the trail, offering different angles and views of the city and the bridge. Distance from Golden Gate Bridge 4 miles, Parking Parking is available at Pier 39 or in Tiburon, How to get there Take theGolden Gate Ferryfrom Pier 39 orAngel Island Ferryfrom Tiburon. Tam views, 400,000 pageviews However, another hero has stepped up to craft a heart out of the scattered rocks, making a new piece of public art to delight visitors. There are 5 ways to get from South San Francisco to Golden Gate Bridge by subway, tram, ferry, taxi, bus or car Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner. Looking for an alternative waterfall hike in Yo, Looking for a fun and relaxing day trip from Sa, I still cant get over those Mt. Discover the best of California. Crissy Field is a place to hang out among one of the best views in the state. Parking Area Parking is free at the Langdon Court parking lot. Surrounded by nature on all sides, its my favorite view of the Golden Gate Bridge and also one of the easiest to access, as the beach is just steps from the parking lot or bus route. Golden Gate Bridge View: Stunning Vistas - TripSavvy The best view of the Golden Gate Bridge is subjective as people have different favourites. If you cant find a spot in this lot, head to the Alexander Ave exit, then turn left onto Bunker Road, where few parking options are available. On this panoramic drive through the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, beginning from the observation deck, you will continue along the coast, winding past Battery Spencer. Looking for the perfect Barbie experience? Located off Lincoln Boulevard, the Golden Gate Overlook's viewing area is a curved concrete plaza that hugs the edge of the coastal bluff, mimicking the design of the military fortifications and artillery platforms that surround it. Point Bonita is known for its historic lighthouse built in 1855, located on a rocky spit of land that juts into the entrance to San Francisco Bay on the west side of the Marin Headlands. Distance from Golden Gate Bridge: 0.7 milesGPS coordinates: (37.8042874, -122.4647022)How to get there: Crissy Field is located at the northernmost tip of San Francisco. Day and night tours are available. Now check your email to confirm your subscription. One of my favourite Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints is not on land but a cruise! The Best Places to View the Golden Gate Bridge - Inn San Francisco Its also an area thats best explored on foot, along the San Francisco Bay Trail. Parking Parking is available at Camino Del Mar. Get the scoop on finding the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints. California has you covered. Routes that stop at the Bridge in either direction in San Francisco are numbers 2, 4, 8, 10, 24, 26, 27, 30, 38, 44, 54, 56 . Drive over the Golden Gate Bridge. You must book this tour of Alcatraz in advance, which you can do here. Besides the gorgeous views, another reason to visit is that the place has many things to offer for history lovers. Sunsets are fantastic from this hilltop, and I recommend watching them if you have time. You will also sail close to the bridge, which will give you more photo options. Note that the entry gets closed around 30-45 minutes before the official closing time. You will pass through gorgeous wild landscapes adorned with wildflowers, cypress, cliffs, coastal trails, ship decks, and spectacular views of the whole entrance to San Francisco Bay, making it one of the fantastic Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints. You can also see the Point Bonita Lighthouse from here on a clear day. Night tours of Alcatraz are also available (and extra creepy). A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) survey in 2014 revealed the boat is still upright and still intact, after the fatal collision on a foggy August day over 100 years ago. The Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic symbol of San Francisco, is a must-see destination for visitors and locals alike. Where can you see the Golden Gate Bridge at night? But you will have to wait if you are here during rush hours. Parking Parking is available in the small trailhead parking lot. At the time of completion in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the tallest and longest suspension bridge in the world. Crissy Field is a green, open space in the north of the city, which invites you to grab lunch, throw down a blanket, and enjoy a picnic with an incredible view of the bridge. Success! If youre looking for an atmospheric image of the bridge rising out of the famous fog, try visiting in the morning. If you rent a bike, only do so if experienced uphill drives. Check your inbox soon for the latest from California.com. He is called Karl, and whether you know him or not, you will most likely feel his presence on your San Francisco trip. The views from the viewpoint may not be as great as at Battery Spencer, but it is somewhat similar to those at the deck, where you can enjoy pretty partial views of the bridge, and southern San Francisco bay, including the beaches. Parking Area There is a small, free parking area on the premises. You either need to descend about a hundred steps or do a steep drive to arrive at China Beach. Recommended 35 Amazing Things To Do In Point Reyes California. Carry a warm jacket or some layers even if you are visiting during the summer. One of the first Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints you will encounter if you bike or drive towards Marin County is the North Vista Point View. With its striking appearance and impressive engineering, this world-renowned landmark offers countless picturesque views and activities to suit every type of traveler. The bridge is 1.3 miles from one end to the other. 2022. This local's guide to Golden Gate Bridge views will tell you where to go, how to get there and the best time of day for seeing the bridge. Start the hike from the parking lot for the out-and-back trail, which is easy to moderate. Halfway through the stairs, you will come across the Batteries to Bluffs trail running along the cliffs at the entrance to the Bay. For the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge from below, head out to Fort Point. To avoid the crowds, consider arriving early in the morning for . Do not be disappointed, though. It is the top spot for photographers eager to recreate the views from Battery Spencer, which are the defining images of San Francisco. Hike and Explore Both ends of the Bridge touch the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Sitting at the south edge of the bridge, the official welcome centre may not be your first choice for the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints, but it is a trendy spot for the beautiful views of the bridge and the Bay. Underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, and 216 feet of water, lies the Chester, a steamboat that sank in 1890. In that case, one of the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints for a quick stop before you leave is the Moore Road Pier observation point, which offers entire views of the bridge from below. Finding the best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints will be one of the first things on your mind when planning a trip to San Francisco. You can take the Marin Headlands Express 76X that stops at downtown SF and Union Square and get down at Kirby Cove Rd stop. Please try again. Distance from Golden Gate Bridge 2.2 miles, Address 124 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States. How to get there Head north toward Pier 39 from Union Square. Length. There are trails and vista spots all over the area, from where you can enjoy the incredible views from this hilly peninsula, all the way out to the Point Bonita Lighthouse.