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

April 21, 2025

San Francisco is a city made for enjoying nature, which makes the options for outdoor activities in San Francisco a bit overwhelming. From gorgeous scenery selfies at Fisherman’s Wharf to cruising Lombard Street, SF is packed with epic ways to spend time in the fresh air. Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your weekend routine or a traveler who prefers hiking boots to bar stools, this guide has you covered with the best outdoor things to do in San Francisco.

a map shows the different outdoor things to do in san francisco including renting a bike and hiking

The top outdoor things to do in SF include:

  1. Renting a bike and cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge
  2. Exploring Golden Gate Park
  3. Packing a picnic
  4. Hiking urban trails
  5. Exploring SF’s beaches
  6. Cruising the bay on a scenic boat tour
  7. Taking a day trip to the Redwoods, a wine tour, and more

Let’s start with one of the most iconic—and easiest—ways to experience the city.

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

If you do one outdoor thing in San Francisco, this is it! Riding a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge isn’t just bucket-list-worthy—it’s surprisingly easy and supremely scenic. It’s an experience you’ll remember forever, and something you can do on your own or with a group of family or friends.

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.

a woman rides a rented bicycle across the golden gate bridge

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. Get Lost (in a Good Way) in Golden Gate Park

You could spend an entire day in Golden Gate Park and still not see it all – in fact, this park is bigger than NYC’s Central Park! The massive green space stretches over three miles and is packed with trails, gardens, lakes, and quirky surprises.

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 Bay Area adventures 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)

Okay, this isn’t Southern California. But the beaches here still slap, especially when you’re wrapped in a hoodie, sipping coffee, and watching the fog roll in.

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. 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?

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

a group of people on a wine tour sit at a table sipping wine and enjoying each other's company

Some of the best outdoor activities San Francisco Bay Area adventurers rave about require 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.

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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