This trail is one of the most beautiful hikes you will encounter whilst in San Francisco and you’ll be surprised by how many tourists don’t ever see it. Don’t be fooled like I was either that seeing it by car is the same as walking the trail. IT’S NOT! Make sure you walk it and take account of all the secret beautiful spots. Top Tip: You’ll find many beautiful picnic spots so pack the wine and sandwiches for a romantic picnic or just to let the kids do a little bit of exploration.
The best starting point is from the visitor center, where you can find a cafe, gift shop and most importantly toilets. From here you can head back towards the city either hiking the whole way with some beautiful stops in between or by taking transport back to your destination.
Lands End marks the entrance to the Golden Gate Bridge, with its rocky terrain marking the end of many voyages as they neared their destination.
The trail has a few high climbs and some steep stairways, but generally there are places to sit at some intervals to catch your breath and if you do go at a busier time you’ll find the pace of the crowds generally slow. There are also some differing terrains, with some paved walkways, smooth paths and some more rugged parts. Throughout the trail you’ll have some wonderful views out over the ocean and towards the Golden Gate Bridge.
About half a mile in, you’ll see a see set of stairs that lead down to the coast. If you’ve brought a picnic this makes an excellent spot to relax, open your wine and enjoy your picnic as you look out towards the Golden Gate Bridge. You might even be lucky to see a whale or two if you go at the right time of the year (July/August).
If you continue along the trail you’ll come out at Sea Cliff, home to the rich and famous. Make sure you walk around Sea Cliff so you can see some of the stunning houses in this very affluent area. Past and present home dwellers here include the likes of Robin Williams, Sharon Stone, Kirk Hammett….the list goes on. When you’ll see the houses you’ll know why everyone who goes there has a serious case of house envy! These houses are especially beautiful when they are decorated for halloween!
If you continue on down through Sea View you’ll see signposts to China Beach. This offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge if you want to see it from another angle.
You can also make your way to Baker Beach which is just around the cost but separating them is the rocky terrain that the area is famed for, so you’ll have to back track on yourself and walk around the coast from the higher vantage point.
If you don’t want to go to Baker Beach you make your way to the Presidio, which is approx 1.5 miles or you can take Muni 1 from California St & 30th Ave, to California St & Park and change to Muni 28, which will take you to the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Centre.
If you’re adventurous or have plenty of energy to burn you can continue on down into the presidio.
Helpful Information:
Starting address of the hike: 680 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94121
Top Tip: Make sure you use the bathroom here as this is the only one if you are walking towards China Beach, which is a good 45 minute walk. Especially key if you are walking with kids.
You can take Muni from the corner of Geary Blvd & Powell St, close to most hotels, using route 38R and it’s about a 36 minute ride.
If you are driving, try to arrive before 10.30am to get parking and avoid some of the crowds. Also make sure to not leave any valuables in the car as this is a notorious crime spot for car thieves.
The Lands End Coastal Trail hike is best done without fog but as we all know this isn’t always possible!
Stay Curious & Explore!