I had the pleasure of returning to the ‘City by the Bay’ this past weekend. During my 4 days and 3 nights visit, I explored the city’s best highlights. I also visited Yosemite National Park, Muir Woods, and Sausalito, California.
Through this blog post, I will show you how to enhance your stay in the city and beyond!
San Francisco (2 days)
If you love nature, seafood and jaw-dropping beauty, San Francisco is a must-see. From small hikes that will transport you out of the city to stunning views of Golden Gate bridge to beaches, viewpoints, and cityscapes – keep reading to learn more!
Presidio: Mashall’s and Baker’s Beaches
Address: Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129
During your time here, you will have access to short walking trails that lead to amazing views of Golden Gate bridge on a clear day. You can also explore the two aforementioned beaches as they are within walking distance of each other via a dirt path from above Marshall’s beach.
If you walk to your right from Marshall’s beach, you will reach Golden Gate Overlook. By visiting in June/July, you will also be able to see wonderful wildflowers for a unique photo opportunity.
If you walk to your left down the dirt path along the road, you’ll go toward Baker’s beach. Along the way, you’ll get to see sweeping views of meadows and the beaches below.
Once you reach Baker’s beach, continue walking down the path until you reach the beach and go to your right. From here, you’ll run into Golden Gate bridge (hopefully not literally).
Lands End Lookout
A short Uber/Lyft ride away is Lincoln Park, which is home to Lands End Lookout. This iconic view of the ocean also showcases the Sutro Baths, which makes for a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. You will not be disappointed.
Located a short walk from the parking lot, you can venture down a few paths to see different views. I recommend going directly down toward the Sutro Baths and taking a right for the best views.
Twin Peaks Overlook
Now, you can head to some of the best cityscape views!
Address: Twin Peaks, San Francisco, CA
If you are traveling by Uber/Lyft, I recommend using Twin Peaks Christmas Tree Point as your drop off. From here, you can see (nearly) a 360 view of the city. From the ocean to Golden Gate bridge and downtown, you can surely see it all. Top recommendation? This is a place you want to bring your camera. You’ll definitely want to take lots of photos. I promise!
Yosemite National Park
From the iconic Half Dome to El Capitan, affectionately nicknames “El Cap”, Yosemite has a bit of something for everyone.
Using the tour company below (not a sponsored post), I was able to go to see Yosemite.
Be prepared for a lengthy tour. The tour lasts upwards of 13 hours. It begins around 5:30 AM and ends around 10:00-10:30 PM. Despite its length, it is beyond worth it. You can understand why, right? 🙂
Muir Woods
Through SF Excursions, I had the pleasure of going on a different tour that ventured to Muir Woods and Sausalito.
On this tour, you will have plenty of free time. You can explore redwood trees and grab a bite to eat. There will also be time to wander the magnificent forest. Without day tours like this, those of us without a car would likely have fewer options, so be sure to look for tours via websites like GetYourGuide.
Sausalito
The last stop on the tour was Sausalito, a local small town outside of San Francisco just across the Golden Gate bridge. Here, you will be able to take in the charm of this town. Enjoy some free time to shop. Wander and get a bit lost.
I hope this guide was helpful. It should provide inspiration for what to see and do in the city of San Francisco and its surrounding areas.
Note: For more information and inspiration, please visit stampchaser_photography (Instagram) and follow for more travel itineraries.
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