Where To Find the Best Views of the Golden Gate Bridge

Dating back to the Gold Rush, Fort Point, at the bridge’s south anchorage is also close to Baker Beach which lies at the foot of rugged cliffs just west of the Golden Gate Bridge. Access is free, and it's a great place to brush up on early California history while enjoying the incredible views. Alfred Hitchcock fans may also recognize Fort Point as the spot where, in the movie, Veritgo, Madeleine jumps into the San Francisco Bay. To get to this popular viewpoint by car, take the last San Francisco exit before the toll plaza.

To see a different side of the Golden Gate Bridge, consider this hiking trail at the edge of the Presidio which is one of the few places you can see the bridge from the west. The vistas from Eagle’s Point and the Lands End labyrinth are the best but keep your eyes peeled for additional glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge as the trail meanders through the woods. Find free parking near the trailhead on Lincoln Highway.

Located near Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field boasts unobstructed views of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmark as a backdrop and is a perfect spot to picnic. It's also a popular spot for flying kites, frisbee games, and wading in the water—though you'll likely need to pack a jacket as Golden Gate Park weather can be chilly year-round.

For an impressive Golden Gate Bridge viewpoint, head to Marin County, just north of San Francisco. You'll need a vehicle or extreme biking endurance to reach this one—cross the bridge going north, then turn left onto the winding, two-lane Conzelman Road. From the top, the views of the Golden Gate Bridge against the San Francisco cityscape are unmatched.

With a little planning, you can climb aboard a sightseeing cruise that departs hourly from Pier 39 on Fisherman’s Wharf. Most cruises venture beneath the bridge into the Pacific Ocean, so you can see the span of the Golden Gate Bridge from below, while bridge-to-bridge tours also include a trip under the Bay Bridge. Angel Island and Alcatraz Island also offer spectacular bridge views, though you’ll need to book well in advance for an Alcatraz tour.

Another short distance north of San Francisco, is Sausalito, a quaint seaside village that features a rocky coastline with a direct view of the bridge. For dinner, opt for fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like the Spinnaker or Bar Bocce. For dessert, grab ice cream from one of the local cafés and stroll along the Bridgeway promenade. If you don't have a car, you can catch a ferry from San Francisco’s Ferry Building or (somewhat) easily get here via a bike rental.