Top 5 places to view the Golden Gate Bridge

It’s the most iconic thing to see in San Fransisco, and for good reason. The Golden Gate Bridge is simply breathtaking and something I spent almost a full day staring at, riding on and searching near and far to find the best viewpoint of. You can see the Bridge from many places across San Fransisco, but to save you running around the whole city, I thought I would share my favourite spots with you.

5. Lands End Park

Maybe a little further away than most view points, but this beautiful park is a great place to relax. Just as the name suggests; its the end of the land. Look to your left and see right over the Pacific Ocean, watching the ships come in and making their way into the harbour. Overlook the beautiful Marin Headlands right in front of you and then see the bridge to your right. A nice spot for a stroll or a swim at China Beach right next door.

4. On the bridge itself

 

You can’t leave San Fran without riding or driving over the famous bridge. With spectacular views of the red marvel above you and panoramic views of the city and bay, it was an easy highlight of my USA trip. But be prepared, even in peak summer it can get a little cold with the  wind chill. They say Chicago is the windy city… I think they need to re-think that decision.

3. Fort Point

 

Get a real feel for the grand stature that this landmark is from right underneath it. A completely different angle than any other, and with some history of it’s own, Fort Point is a great place to visit. Walking or riding the path leading up to it along the bay in Crissy Field Park provides many opportunities for breathtaking photos.

2. Crissy Field Park Lookout

 

Take the track up the hill before you hit Fort Point and you’ll find this beautiful lookout. One of the more popular ones, it’s easy to see why as the views are stunning.

1. Marin Headlands – Battery Spencer

 

Ever seen something so beautiful, you just couldn’t stop staring? Well this view was it for me. I could have sat there all day, watching the bridge, the city sitting behind it and boats sailing in and cruising around the bay.

Directions: It was difficult to get to by bike, but very rewarding. To get there, ride over the bridge and make sure to check out the views on the east side of the bridge at Vista Point. Next you will need to carry the bike down some stairs to walk underneath the bridge and pop out on the other side. It was a steep hill climb up out of the car park and then left onto Conzelman Road. I’m going to be honest, I walked my bike most of the way. I got to Battery Spencer lookout which is the closest one to the bridge. Many people told me that the views further around the Headlands were just as stunning, but I was already exhausted having rode uphill across the city for the morning. So if you have the energy or four wheels, definitely try to make it around.

One thing to note about San Fransisco though is that it is very often covered in low cloud and the bridge can sometimes be hard to see, even if you’re standing on it. Whilst there’s not too much you can do if you get there on a bad day, I would highly recommend a long stay in the beautiful city and planning your schedule around the weather to make sure you can see the bridge in all it’s glory. The weather can also change quite quickly here so you may get lucky! This is definitely a landmark you don’t wanna miss!

For tips on how to plan your next trip check out my Travel Planning 101 Guide.