Ocean Beach

San Francisco isn’t known for its beaches, largely due to its unusually cool and foggy micro-climate. But it’s still worth checking out Ocean Beach on the Pacific Ocean side of the city (west), close to the Golden Gate Park. The city’s longest beach is a great place for a walk or a picnic. On a sunny day you’ll see locals and tourists running, biking, skating, and flying kites along the 3 mile stretch of beach. If you are lucky you may even spot a few dolphins.

Spring and summer in California are usually perfect for beach weather, but the average temperature at Ocean Beach has been around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This doesn’t deter surfers however, and makes the beach a great destination for beach walks. The cooler weather also makes the beach the perfect place for a sundown bonfire.
Surprisingly, during late fall and the first few weeks of spring generally bring warmer, fog-free beach weather. If you are a surfer and a strong swimmer, you will enjoy the big waves. However, if you are not used to strong rips or currents, I would advise against going in the water.

If it’s too cold for a picnic on the beach, why not head up to the Cliff House. Built in 1863, the stunning building with majestic views over the Pacific Ocean is the perfect place for lunch.