Baker Beach - San Francisco, California

Address:San Francisco, California

There is a reason why about-to-be-married couples choose the Bay Area of San Francisco's Baker Beach as the backdrop for their photographs. Steep bluffs shelter the mile-long strip of sandy, rocky coastline but the most stunning attraction is the unparalleled view of the Golden Gate Bridge arching across the Bay. Stand on the sand and peer out at the Marin Headlands and Lands End.

Baker Beach is located in the historic Presidio, once a strategic army base, now a notoriously beautiful park. On sunny San Francisco weekends, tourists and locals stretch out their towels for sunbathing, adventurous children scramble over the rocks, and fishing buffs sink their bait along the shores. Walk along Baker Beach's busy shoreline and you will likely pass beachcombers, dog-walkers, Frisbee and volleyball players, and other kindred spirits in love with the sea. A stroll on Baker Beach is like meandering into a San Francisco postcard; it is so picturesque, you'll want to write home about it.

Visitors to Baker Beach should be forewarned that the northern section of the beach is clothing-optional and many Baker Beach bums prefer to sunbathe nude. The area past the high tide sign on the northern hill is the place where folks feel free. Stay on the main section of Baker Beach and you will find yourself in the company of clothes-clad individuals. Additionally, it is important to note that large waves and unpredictable rip tides make Baker Beach unsafe for swimming. There are, however, plenty of picnic tables and barbeque pits as well as on-site bathrooms. Baker Beach is a recipe for Bay Area fun: quintessential San Francisco scenery, warm sun, and a slice of the trendy San Fran scene.