On clear San Francisco days, the view doesn't get much better than the one from Crissy Field. In addition to setting their sights on the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz Island, visitors can relax on the beach or have a snack in the picnic area. Adventure-seekers also enjoy this former military airfield for windsurfing offshore.
Must see and must do at Crissy Field
After taking in the Golden Gate Bridge from a different angle, visitors should explore the wildlife and plants in the restored tidal marsh. Those looking to fish or crab can head to the west end of the field, Torpedo Wharf, where it's legal to do so without a license.
Best and worst time to go to Crissy Field
No matter the season, it's best to visit Crissy Field in the morning. Afternoons and evening can get quite windy. The area's most crowded on weekends, especially during summer.
Admission to Crissy Field
It's free to visit Crissy Field.
Wildlife at Crissy Field
Sea lions aren't as prevalent here as at some other attractions in San Francisco, like Pier 39, but they can be spotted at times. Additionally, the tidal marsh is home to 17 fish species and over 130 types of birds.
Insider tip for Crissy Field
Don't forget to bring a jacket or a sweater, regardless of the month. If the wind proves to be too much or hunger's calling, the Warming Hut on the west side of the field offers shelter, coffee and food.
Author's bio: Elizabeth Xu is a freelance travel writer who calls the San Francisco Bay Area home, though she's also had the opportunity to live in Ohio, Michigan and Minnesota. Follow her travels @ElizabethMXu.
Tucked away by Ocean Beach on the West Coast of San Francisco, the Sutro Baths provide visitors a chance to explore nature and part of San Francisco's history. Visitors can walk in the bath ruins, which were once a group of large indoor swimming pools, and enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs, Seal Rock, and the ocean.
Must see and must do at the Sutro Baths
Go down the stairs for close up views of the baths, the ocean, to walk inside to the cave and, if you're brave, across the pool beams.
Best and worst time to go to the Sutro Baths
September and October have the warmest weather and the least fog, allowing for the best views. At any time of year, the views will be clearest in the early afternoon, after the fog has burned off. Try to avoid going in the early morning, when the weather is almost always foggy and cold.
Admission to the Sutro Baths
Admission and parking are free at the Sutro Baths. Visitors can park in two nearby parking lots or take the 38-Geary bus line from downtown.
Wildlife at the Sutro Baths
Visitors can see sea lions, and if they are lucky, whales and dolphins, swimming through Ocean Beach.
Insider Tip for the Sutro Baths
Be sure to look inside the visitor center after getting your fill of the views. The gift shop has beautiful and entertaining photographs of the swimming pools in their heyday.
Author's bio: Kacie Berghoef is a freelance writer who has lived in San Francisco since 2011.
