EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Coastal landscapes & harbor history
California
Scenic header: Visiting Crissy Field is an ever changing experience as the fog comes in and dissipates. · NPS photo/Will Elder · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Coastal landscapes & harbor history

A broad collection of coastal and historic places surrounds the Golden Gate. Plan one district, such as the Marin Headlands or a San Francisco waterfront area, for a satisfying visit.

A related destination: Golden Gate National Recreation Area is included for its scenery or history and is identified here by its current designation. It is not counted as a national monument.

White buildings with red roofs at Crissy Field with blue bay and Golden Gate Bridge and fog behind.
Visiting Crissy Field is an ever changing experience as the fog comes in and dissipates.
NPS photo/Will Elder · Photo credits
View south with family on road in foreground and Rodeo Beach and cove in front of Point Bonita.
Trails in the Marin Headlands offer a fun and spectacular hiking experience for all.
NPS photo/Will Elder · Photo credits
BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Marin Headlands
  • 02Fort Point area
  • 03Coastal walks

Before you go

This is a national recreation area with widely separated sites. Parking, transit and opening arrangements vary by district.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.