Originally, San Francisco was relatively small and insignificant, but with the gold rush in the 19th century, countless people across America flocked to attain this new-found wealth. The city has faced many highs and lows throughout history, but now it’s a tourist hub with great food, art and music. With its crooked cobble-stoned streets, breath-taking views of the ocean and diverse cultures, the city is a dream destination.

Whether you’re a fan of the famous sitcom Full House, or you’ve always wanted to see the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, San Francisco has something for everyone. With plenty of incredible restaurants and some of the most incredible street art in the world, the city is an explosion of color and excitement. Every part of San Francisco has a story to tell so let’s dive into this narrative.

Exploring San Francisco by the Coast

This coastline city has a lot going on by the edge of the waters so slap on some sunscreen, get your flip flops on and start exploring.

Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

Let’s start off with the most well-known attraction in the city. An architectural feat at its time, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The brilliant orange-red bridge is a masterpiece and a sight to behold, especially at sunset. If you want the perfect view, head on to Baker Beach.

Apart from offering a spectacular view of the bridge, Baker Beach is a great place for fishing or even a picnic. You can’t swim in the water because of rough tides, but this clothing-optional beach is known for its great weather and amazing views. It’s great for people who like to stay out of the sun and is usually characterized by cloudy weather for the most part of the summer.
You can even take your dog with you for a walk to this pet-friendly beach.

Enjoy a Stroll by the Beach

Apart from Baker Beach, San Francisco has other beaches like Ocean Beach or China Beach, which is less crowded and also provides a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Rodeo Beach is also worth the visit as the beach is covered in pebbles instead of sand.

Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

From fine dining to street food, Fisherman’s Wharf offers the ultimate combination of delicious food and the fresh sea breeze. Here’s everything you can do at Fisherman’s Wharf:

Check Out Pier 39

If you want a fun day out, especially if you’re with your children, Pier 39 is the place for you. Good food, entertainment and fresh air, what more could you want!

• Enjoy a ride on San Francisco’s double-decker carousel or immerse yourself in some of the most mesmerizing street performances you’ve ever seen.
• Let your mind run wild at Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze. The entry ticket is only USD 5 and you can run around for as long as you want!
• Dance to your own rhythm on the musical stairs which resemble the keys of a piano.
  Commemorate your visit with an animated drawing of yourself.
• Visit the Aquarium of the Bay to discover nearly 20,000 different types of marine life.
• Defy gravity and soar up into the air with the Frequent Flyer’s bungee trampoline.
• Get to know San Francisco in just 20 minutes with the Flyer- a virtual reality ride that will allow you to soar over the city and see the Golden Gate Bridge from above.
• You’ve heard of 3D and even 4D movies, but nothing beats Pier 39’s 7D experience. Stimulate your senses with this virtual reality, laser tag, motion coaster. Release any pent up frustrations by blasting virtual zombies and such with your laser.

Visit Hyde Street Pier

If you find museums boring, give this one a shot. Located through a series of ships, this floating museum is an experience unlike any other.

Visit Madame Tussuads Wax Museum

You’ve probably heard of people waiting in a line of statues or trying to strike up a conversation with a wax figure. You can experience this yourself at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum where you can find wax statues of your favorite historical figures, celebrities and sports players. Enjoy a cup of tea with George Clooney or sit with Rosa Parks. Don’t forget to get a picture with the president in the oval office. If you’re really in the mood, you can even get a wax version of your hand.

Cruise through the Sparkling Waters

Take the Bay Cruise and see San Francisco’s incredible skyline. Sail under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you choose a public cruise or a private boat, you can explore the waters throughout the day and night.

It’s time for some Retail Therapy!

No vacation is complete without shopping. Whether you’re looking for clothes, souvenirs or chocolate, they’ve got it all at Pier 39.

Head on to Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island was once a famous prison; now it’s a famous tourist attraction where people visit from around the globe to explore the prison. This island has been a hotspot for many film scenes featuring in movies like X men, Escape From Alcatraz and even the Alchemyst. You can take a cruise to visit this island and explore the mysteries of ancient prisons.

Visit Angel Island

You can reach this island by boat or cruise, and once you’re there, you can tour the place using the tram system. Not only is there great food and entertainment, but the views from the island are heavenly.

Head on to the Lands End

If you want an undisturbed view of the San Francisco sunset, visit Lands End. The park offers rocky trails, monuments, a brilliant view of the Golden Gate Bridge and even golf courses!
You can explore the remnants of the Suntro Baths, a swimming area which was shut down and 1964 and burned in a fire in the late 1990s. Once you’re done, you can head on over to the Cliff House for some food. The Cliff House too, was burned by a fire (twice) and rebuilt.

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