San Francisco is a gem of a city. California’s fourth-most populous city, San Francisco has the highest per capita income in the nation and is the second-most densely populated city after New York City. Founded by colonists from Spain and named for Francis of Assisi, the City by the Bay is diverse and has a European feel which is part of what makes San Francisco homes so appealing. The architecture is beautifully eclectic, and the mild weather means there are many ways to enjoy being outdoors in San Francisco.
1. Hiking
Hiking enthusiasts looking for homes for sale in San Francisco couldn’t find a better place to live. There are thousands of miles of hiking trails on the San Francisco Peninsula, ranging from easy strolls through nature for beginners, to rugged trails with climbs for the more experienced and ambitious hikers. Here are the top three hiking trails you should visit:
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Sign Hill Park: A gorgeous 30-acre patch of land that has been designated a National Historic Monument, Sign Hill Park features 2 miles of hiking trails with spectacular views of the peninsula. It is located near many San Francisco homes and is a great way to enjoy being outdoors.
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Pulgas Ridge Preserve: A 366-acre site, Pulgas Ridge has 6 miles of trails that go through canyons and provide stellar views of the bay and the hillsides. There are hiking trails and even an off-leash area where you can enjoy the outdoors with your dog.
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San Francisco Bay Trail: This beautiful outdoor trail is currently a 350-mile hike; however, when completed, it will reach a length of 500 miles. It runs through Palo Alto and San Mateo County, connecting with parks, beaches, and marinas. The trail can accommodate hikers, bikers, and joggers, and is wheelchair accessible.
2. Bird-watching
People residing in San Francisco homes who enjoy watching birds are in luck. The San Francisco Peninsula is a bird watcher’s paradise. There are many species in the area, especially in the fall, when birds migrate between Alaska and South America. This flight path is known as the Pacific Flyway and it is thrilling for local bird-watching enthusiasts. While in San Francisco, here are some of the best places you can visit for an enjoyable bird-watching experience:
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Fitzgerald Marine Reserve: The James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is located on the rocky coastline of the bay. It’s a great place for viewing the many species of shorebirds who flock there to feed on crabs, fish, and other sea creatures. Rangers and naturists conduct tours for children and adults where they can learn about great blue herons, brown pelicans, black oystercatchers, and other species of marine birds.
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San Bruno Mountain Park: If you enjoy watching large birds of prey, San Bruno Mountain Park is an ideal place to take a hike with your binoculars in tow. The top of the mountain presents views to all sides of great distance. American kestrels, seahawks, peregrine falcons, and many other majestic raptors are easily viewable from this prime spot.
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Bair Island: Located near Redwood City, Bair Island is a huge habitat covering more than 3,000 acres. In addition to amazing views of the entire Bay Area, the Middle Bair Observation Deck is a great place to see shorebirds, waterfowl, and also harbor seals.
3. Visiting beaches
If you love the surf and sand and are looking at homes for sale in San Francisco, you have many options for beachgoing. With nearly 60 miles of Pacific coastline, the peninsula is home to numerous places where you can swim, surf, sunbathe, or just enjoy looking at the sea.
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Pacifica: Pacifica is home to several beaches where you can hike on overlooks with beautiful views of the Pacific. It is a surfer’s dream, one of Northern California’s most popular destinations for riding the waves. You can also catch a gorgeous sunset at Pacifica Pier.
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Half Moon Bay State Beach: Four small beaches cover this 2-mile stretch of white sand along the coastline of a cove. The waters are tamer, great for swimmers and surfers who prefer calm waves. It’s also a great place to sit in tranquility while viewing the sea. There are some excellent restaurants with outdoor patios that serve incredible seafood.
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Pescadero State Beach: Running for a mile along a Pacific coastline that features rocky cliffs, sandy coves, and many great spots for fishing. Pescadero offers swimming, hiking trails, and places for sunbathing. It’s a wonderful place for all kinds of beach activities.
4. Outdoor dining
Photo courtesy of Foreign Cinema
For foodies, the only thing better than a gourmet meal at a fine dining establishment is eating that meal outdoors. Delicious cuisine enjoyed in the fresh air and sunshine is one of life’s greatest joys, and there is no shortage of restaurants where you can do just that in San Francisco.
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Foreign Cinema: One of San Francisco’s most popular patio eateries, Foreign Cinema projects classic films on its garden wall during service, providing a cultural, as well as culinary outdoor experience. Serving California/Mediterranean cuisine, Foreign Cinema is an excellent place for lunch or dinner al fresco.
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The Vault Garden: Featuring an outdoor bar, dining room, and garden lounge, The Vault Garden has weather-protected outdoor spaces so you can enjoy eating outside even when it’s raining or chilly. A casual yet elegant atmosphere and fine California cuisine make this a great place for outdoor food enthusiasts.
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Fiorella Clement: For lovers of Italian cuisine, Fiorella Clement is the place to go for delicious pizza and pasta served outdoors. Located in a charming, casual neighborhood, this eatery has a classic, wood-fired oven for making some of the best pizza on the West Coast.
The beautiful city of San Fransisco features many places and activities for people who enjoy the great outdoors. If you are planning to move here and are looking for homes for sale in San Francisco, contact Kara W. Lee for expert advice and assistance. A lifelong resident of the San Francisco area, Kara can help you find the home of your dreams. She can also help you sell your San Francisco home.
