San Francisco Guide to Sightseeing
Name: Ocean Beach
Address: Point Lobos Ave./Great Highway (map it)

There’s no way around it—San Francisco is known for its fog, so going to a beach would seem like risky business. But Ocean Beach is well worth the trip when the weather is good. Whether you’re a surfer, swimmer, or suntanner, Ocean beach is the place to be if you’re looking for some San Francisco sand beneath your toes. And because it's located near great restaurants and historical areas, a trip to Ocean Beach can turn a few hours in the sand into day of good eats, Frisco history, and all-around fun.

Located on the historic 49-mile Scenic Drive, Ocean Beach is one of San Francisco’s most popular (and largest) beaches. Even on foggy or cold days, it’s rare that you’ll find the 2+-mile long stretch of sand empty, as kite fliers, Frisbee players, and surfers call this place home. Beachgoers are also allowed to have bonfires, which is unlike many other San Francisco beaches, and that serves as a prime attraction to locals and tourists alike. Seal Rock, a prominent rock off the Ocean Beach shore, serves as home to many sea lions, which adds to the “only in San Francisco” allure to the beach.

After a day at the beach, there are myriad places to go to eat and explore. The Cliff House, which is a popular restaurant which recently went through extensive renovations, overlooks the beach and offers restaurant-goers a stunning view of the Pacific ocean and the California cliffsides. The food is spectacular, too, and the quality of service is top-notch. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, head down to the Sutro Bath ruins, one of San Francisco’s historical landmarks. There you can explore the ruins of an old bathhouse that used to be the place to go for turn-of-the-20th-century San Franciscians.

If a San Francisco beach is what you crave, Ocean Beach is the place to go. Combined with attractions off the sand, Ocean Beach has been a tried-and-true place for relaxation for locals and tourists alike.