From Hiking to Biking: Outdoor Activities to Do In San Francisco

Are you looking for the best outdoor activities in San Francisco? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking for new ways to explore this incredible city, San Francisco offers a huge variety of outdoor experiences. From biking across the Golden Gate Bridge to hiking urban trails with breathtaking views, this guide walks you through the top outdoor things to do in SF and helps you make the most of your time here.

 

Table of Contents: 

1. Introduction

2. Top Outdoor Activities in San Francisco for Visitors

3. Outdoor Activities in SF Loved by Locals

4. Seasonal Outdoor Activities in San Francisco

5. Tips for Planning Your Outdoor Day in SF

6. FAQs

 

Top Outdoor Activities in San Francisco for Visitors

 

1. Rent a Bike and Ride Across the Golden Gate Bridge

 

If you do one outdoor activity in San Francisco, make it this one. Riding a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most scenic and unforgettable ways to enjoy SF’s great outdoors. Most riders start near Fisherman’s Wharf, ride through the Presidio, and cross the bridge into Sausalito, where you can celebrate with lunch and a ferry ride back.

🚲 Pro Tip: Book your bike rental or guided ride with Bay City Bike — we offer everything from cruiser bikes to e‑bikes perfect for all skill levels.

The Itinerary

• Head to Bay City Bike to choose your own adventure: This San Francisco bike rental company has everything from standard cruisers to kid’s equipment to e-bikes (which are a game-changer on SF’s hills). 
• You can choose a self-guided route or hop on one of their guided tours to learn from a local about the city’s different neighborhoods, history, and sights.
• For exploring the Golden Gate Bridge, most riders cruise from their easily accessible Fisherman’s Wharf locations, head through the Presidio, and then pedal across the bridge into Sausalito.
• Once you’re there? Grab some fish tacos, snap a selfie with the bay behind you, and head back to the city feeling refreshed after spending a gorgeous day outdoors.

 

Biking the bridge is hands-down one of the best outdoor things to do in San Francisco, and a perfect way to kick off or wrap up your day.

2. Explore Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is bigger than New York’s Central Park with gardens, lakes, trails, museums, and picnic spots — a must‑visit for anyone seeking things to do outdoors in San Francisco. Biking or walking through the park lets you cover more ground and discover hidden gems like the Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers.

 

The Itinerary:

• Stow Lake – Rent a pedal boat or hike up Strawberry Hill for views.
• Japanese Tea Garden – Tranquil and photogenic.
• Conservatory of Flowers – Tropical vibes in the middle of SF.
• Skatin’ Place – Catch locals doing roller disco on weekends.

The best way to cover more ground in less time is to rent a bike or surrey specifically for Golden Gate Park. If you’re traveling with kids or a group of friends, the surrey rentals in the park can be a great way to stick together and travel far! On Sundays, several main roads in Golden Gate Park go car-free, turning the park into a cyclist’s dream.

3. Pack a Picnic With a View

Sometimes the best way to enjoy the outdoors is with a sandwich and some sunshine. San Francisco has no shortage of epic picnic spots. Here are some of our favorites:

• Dolores Park: Come for the views of downtown, stay for the people-watching.
• Crissy Field: Beachside, breezy, and right next to the Golden Gate.
• Alamo Square: Snap a photo of the Painted Ladies, then relax on the lawn.

Most of these spots are easy to reach by bike or foot, and local markets nearby make it easy to grab picnic supplies on the go.

 

4. Hike Urban Trails With Big Nature Energy

 

You don’t need to leave the city to get into nature. Some of the best outdoor activities in the San Francisco area are tucked right into the urban landscape.

Top picks:

• Lands End Trail: Coastal cliffs, wildflowers, and views of the bridge.
• Twin Peaks: A short but steep climb for full 360° views.
• Mount Sutro Forest: Hidden eucalyptus trails in the middle of town.
• Glen Canyon Park: Underrated gem with dramatic rock formations.
  

Each of these hikes feels like a mini escape—without the need for a car. Even better, these hikes are photogenic, so you can revisit the photos you take anytime you’re craving some nature.

5. Hit the Beaches (Even If You’re Wearing a Hoodie)

You might not swim here year‑round, but SF beaches are perfect for strolls, sunset views, bonfires, and kite flying:

Check out:

• Baker Beach: Iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Ocean Beach: Popular with surfers and sunset chasers.
• China Beach: Small, quiet, and tucked away.

Just don’t expect to go swimming—the water’s freezing, and the currents are no joke. But for picnicking, strolling, or simply sitting with your thoughts, these beaches can’t be beat.

6. Plan a Day Trip: Redwoods, Cliffs, Wine Tours, and Coastal Views

 

Some of the best outdoor activities in San Francisco that adventurers rave about requires just a short drive across the bridge. If you’re interested in combining an outdoor adventure with something different, try one of the awesome wine tasting tours in San Francisco! Just be sure to have a designated driver to keep the day fun AND safe.

If wine country isn’t quite your style, there are still plenty of easy day trips to take in the Bay Area. They include:

• San Bruin Mountain State & County Park: Hiking trails, open meadows, and serene outdoor views.
• Muir Woods: Stroll beneath towering redwoods.
• Marin Headlands: Hike coastal trails with jaw-dropping views.
• Point Reyes National Seashore: Wild beaches, scenic lighthouses, and tule elk.

Pro tip: if you bike across the bridge to Sausalito with Bay City Bike, you can catch a shuttle or bus to some of these destinations—or just enjoy a more laid-back day exploring Marin County.

 

Outdoor Activities in SF Loved by Locals

7. Crissy Field Hangouts

Crissy Field’s wide promenade and bay breezes make it a local favorite for walking, kite flying, paddleboarding, and sunset picnics — all with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

8. The Presidio’s Trails and Green Spaces

The Presidio of San Francisco is a massive outdoor playground with ocean‑side paths, historic sites, picnic lawns, and access to beaches like Baker Beach and scenic overlooks.

9. Urban Discovery and Local Hidden Gems

SF’s neighborhoods each have outdoor charm:

• Mission District murals + cafes

• The Embarcadero walk near Ferry Building

• Yerba Buena Gardens

These are fun outdoor activities in SF that double as cultural exploration.

Seasonal Outdoor Activities in San Francisco

San Francisco weather is mild year‑round, so outdoor fun adapts with the seasons.

 

Spring to Summer

 

10. Cruise the Bay on a Scenic Boat Tour

There are plenty of boat tours in San Francisco where you can enjoy the breeze on your face and see the sights of the city in a leisurely way.

Options include:

• Bay Cruises from Pier 39: Classic, affordable, and scenic.
• Sunset Sails: Bring a jacket and a camera.
• Alcatraz Ferry: Tour the island, enjoy the ferry ride.

These options are ideal for folks who want something outdoorsy without breaking a sweat. Plus, who doesn’t want to snap a selfie with the skyline from the water?

 

Fall to Winter

 

11. Lightscape at Golden Gate Park’s Botanical Garden (Seasonal Nighttime Walk)

One of the most magical winter activities in San Francisco is the Lightscape event at Golden Gate Park’s Botanical Garden. This seasonal nighttime walk is perfect for those who want to experience the outdoors with a festive twist.

Highlights include:

• Dazzling Light Displays: Wander through illuminated trees, glowing arches, and stunning light sculptures.

• Holiday Vibes: The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with seasonal music and festive displays.

• A Relaxing Stroll: Ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, immersive outdoor experience at night.

It’s a great way to enjoy San Francisco’s winter charm while soaking in the holiday spirit — all without leaving the park!

Things to Know & Tips

• Dress in Layers
  San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the fall and winter. Layering is key to staying comfortable. Mornings may be chilly, but by midday, it can warm up. Bring a jacket, but don’t forget to pack something lighter underneath.

• San Francisco’s Fog Is Real
  The city is famous for its fog, especially in the summer and fall months. Be prepared for foggy mornings and cooler temperatures, particularly near the coast. It often burns off by midday, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

• Use Public Transit or Rent a Bike
  While driving in SF can be tricky due to limited parking, public transit (like Muni and BART) and bike rentals are great alternatives. Bay City Bike offers easy rentals for exploring the city, including bike tours to landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also take advantage of shuttles and buses to visit day trip locations like Muir Woods and Point Reyes.

• Plan for Crowds
  SF is a popular tourist destination, so certain spots like Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf can get crowded. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.

• Bring Your Own Water and Snacks
  Whether you’re hiking through the Presidio or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s always a good idea to bring your own water and snacks. While there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in SF, it’s nice to have refreshments on hand for longer outdoor activities.

• Respect Nature and Wildlife
  If you’re heading to places like Muir Woods or Point Reyes, be mindful of the environment. Stay on designated trails, pack out all your trash, and be aware of local wildlife, such as tule elk or migratory birds at Point Reyes.

• Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
  Even though it may seem like a cool day, San Francisco still gets strong UV rays. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, especially when you’re outdoors for extended periods.

 

Your Outdoor SF Adventure Starts Now

Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or just looking to soak in some views, San Francisco delivers. From beach walks to bike rides, from hidden forest hikes to wind-in-your-hair ferry rides, this city is packed with opportunities to get outside.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, layer up, and get moving. And if you’re looking for the perfect way to kick things off, come see us at Bay City Bike. We’ll hook you up with the wheels, the routes, and the local tips to make your SF day unforgettable.

Because the best way to experience San Francisco isn’t behind a windshield—it’s out in the open, with the breeze in your face and the Golden Gate in your sights.

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Other San Francisco Guides You May Enjoy:

• A Biker’s Guide to Must-Visit San Francisco Neighborhoods
• Top 7 Things to Do for San Francisco Pride
• Best SF Scenic Bike Routes