Martinez, California

If the weather forecast looks promising, you could do a lot worse than planning a picnic at the West Bluff Picnic Area in the Presidio. This area is south of Crissy Field (closer to the bridge) and before you get to Fort Point - situated perfectly to give you an amazing view of the Golden Gate, A...

Yes, you can camp just over the Golden Gate! Kirby Cove Campground has 4 overnight campsites and 1 picnic area for day use. The campground is set near a coarse-sand beach and offers amazing views of the Golden Gate, as long as it’s not a super foggy SF day. From the parking lot, it's a steep ~1 m...

If you're looking for one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marshall's Beach gives you just that without the tourist crowds of Baker Beach.This small and hidden beach offers a narrow stretch of sand for those looking to throw a frisbee around or just hang out with friends. As it's tuck...

If the sun is shining, and you’re in the mood for playing around with friends in one of SF’s many amazing parks, Dolores should be at the top of your list. With amazing views of downtown, huge tiered lawn areas, tennis courts, basketball courts, a brand new playground, and easy access to some of ...

Buck Gulch Falls (also known as Fairway Falls) is an easy, scenic hike that takes you through a beautiful forest on your way to a 15-foot waterfall. This little neighborhood treasure is tucked away in Novato, CA at the end of Fairway Drive and there is ample parking near the trailhead.  If you v...

Tucked away in a small neighborhood park in Eureka Valley is a set of really fun, slippery, and surprisingly steep concrete slides. They were originally designed by a 14 year old kid over 30 years ago, and we all owe him a big hat tip. People use a variety of sliding materials (saucers, food tray...

Spend a day exploring Golden Gate Park by jogging, cycling, or leisurely strolling.  There are so many fantastic stops in the park including a variety of lakes, playgrounds, a golf course, the California Academy of Science, the Conservatory of Flowers, and much much more!  It is definitely worth ...

Most locals have heard of Twin Peaks, so if you hop in an Uber or Taxi you should be just fine. If not or you are driving yourself, head for Twin Peaks Boulevard, then just follow it to the top. Voila!When you're there, be sure to catch a sunset, as it is absolutely breath-taking, If you are luck...

This 12 mile bike path starts at a rental shop in Sonoma Country called Sonoma Valley Bike Tours and Rentals. Follow the trail through the quaint residential area and into the back country vineyards and dirt trails. This ride can be anything between a hardcore 2 hour cycling workout with a few in...

Billy Goat Hill Park is located in the Glen Park neighborhood of San Francisco. The park has street parking at the top of the park on Beacon Street or at the base of the park on Ladley Street. Getting to the swing is only a short walk up or down the stairs that run through the middle of the park....

All throughout the Marin Headlands are WWII-era bunkers, batteries and ruins, including a complex on the hillside above the Point Bonita Lighthouse that provide amazing views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate, and the north coast.Drive out to the parking lot for the Point Bonita Lighthouse in the...

Whether you simply look down on the ruins from the [conveniently located] parking lot above, or choose to walk down the stairs and explore, you will be greeted with stunning views of the Baths, and the Pacific Ocean stretching infinitely beyond. The highlight of any trip to the Sutro Baths is ...

Take in a scenic sunset and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on the beach! Muir Beach changes the number of fire pits it has seasonally. May through November, the beach offers 6 fire pits, and in the colder months (December through April), there are 3 fire pits on the beach toward the south end of t...

Start at the wide gravel parking lot. You will find the start of the San Andreas Fire Road on the south side leading up the mountain.  The San Andreas Fire Road heads up the southern slope before joining the Middle Burdell Fire Road and then very quickly the Deer Camp Fire Road. Keep your eyes p...

Need an escape from SF, but can't seem to find an available campground, then head to Pantoll Campground in Mount Tamalpais State Park. If you get there early on friday (or even better Thursday afternoon), you should be able to lock down one of these first-come, first-serve campgrounds. Each of th...

Yes, it's often cold in the city. So, what's the best way to warm up? Bring some blankets, a jacket or two, and come out to Ocean Beach to enjoy a bonfire, a sunset, and some quality time with friends. The fire pits are between Fulton and Lincoln. On a sunny day, get there early if you want to ge...