More about: The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco
San Francisco is a city best explored outdoors. With its temperate climate and spectacular scenery, it offers a myriad of plans to explore on foot, by bike or even by boat. From crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to getting lost in its parks or escaping into the nearby wilderness, there is something for everyone.
If you want to discover San Francisco in a different way, here are the best outdoor activities to make the most of your visit.
1. Cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge and tour Sausalito
Few experiences are as memorable as cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge. This iconic bridge offers breathtaking views of the bay and the city. From there, you can continue the ride to the charming town of Sausalito, famous for its houseboats and laid-back atmosphere.
You can opt for a guided electric bike tour or, if you prefer to go at your own pace, a bike rental to explore the city at your leisure.
2. A bay cruise to enjoy San Francisco from the water
San Francisco looks different from the water. A bay cruise will allow you to admire the city skyline, the Golden Gate and Alcatraz Island from a privileged perspective.
You can choose from several options, such as a sunset cruise to enjoy the city lights or a brunch cruise to combine spectacular views with a gastronomic experience.
3. Alcatraz and Muir Woods, a combination of history and nature
One of the must-visits in San Francisco is Alcatraz Island, famous for its former maximum security prison. Exploring its cells and learning the stories of its most famous prisoners is an overwhelming experience.
If you want to combine history and nature, you can take a tour that also includes the stunning redwood forests of Muir Woods and the charming town of Sausalito.
4. Discover San Francisco on a GoCar or Segway Tour
San Francisco is full of hills, but that doesn't mean you have to walk it all. For an original and fun experience, you can explore the streets in a GoCar, a small GPS-guided car that takes you around the city's most iconic landmarks.
Another option is a Segway tour, ideal for exploring neighbourhoods like Fisherman's Wharf and North Beach in a comfortable and different way.
5. A trip to Napa and Sonoma for some great wine tasting
Less than two hours from San Francisco, the Napa and Sonoma valleys offer some of the best wine tours in California. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, here you can taste local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
It's a perfect getaway for those looking to relax and enjoy Californian cuisine in an idyllic setting.
6. Yosemite in two days, an adventure between mountains and waterfalls.
If you're a nature lover, Yosemite National Park is a must-see. Its towering granite cliffs, waterfalls and giant sequoia forests make it one of the most impressive places in the United States.
For an unhurried experience, a two-day trip to Yosemite will allow you to explore its trails and see iconic sites such as El Capitan and Half Dome.
7. The magic of Muir Woods and its towering ancient redwoods
The forests of Muir Woods are home to some of the tallest redwoods in the world. Walking among these thousand-year-old giants is an awe-inspiring experience that connects you with nature in a unique way.
It's an ideal plan for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest.
8. San Francisco bus tour with exclusive access to Alcatraz
If you want to see the best of San Francisco without missing out, a bus tour combined with a visit to Alcatraz is a great option. This tour takes you through the city's most iconic neighbourhoods, including Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury and Fisherman's Wharf.
In addition, the tour includes admission to Alcatraz, allowing you to discover the history of the world's most famous prison.