Angelika Summer is here, and the dollar exchange rate is incredibly low. The tourism office in San Francisco is rubbing its hands with glee because San Francisco is still highly popular among American and European tourists! And since we don't want you to wander along the well-trodden tourist paths, today I'm going to share a little insider tip with you once again.
The Golden Gate Bridge is, of course, an absolute must on every San Francisco tourist's checklist, and the locals agree. Everyone wants to see the bridge and is on the lookout for the best photo opportunity. However, no one who lives in San Francisco goes to the official viewpoint, which is located just right behind the bridge heading out of the city, because there you not only have to contend with tour buses but also fight for a parking spot during busy times like on weekends.
Instead, local drivers proceed to the next 101 exit, "Alexander Avenue", and then follow the signs to "Marin Headlands." You reach Conzelman Road, which leads up the mountain and repeatedly offers fantastic views of the bridge and the city. Provided, of course, that the latter is not shrouded in fog. However, it seems that this is already mentioned in every travel guide, and on weekends, you're not exactly alone here. The Marin Headlands area is also very popular among us city dwellers for hiking and cycling. But right behind the crowded viewpoint "Battery Spencer," a bit hidden and off the main road, lies the beach "Kirby Cove." You can only reach it by walking down a 1-mile-long and relatively steep, unpaved road lined with eucalyptus trees. This naturally leads to a certain dropout rate and thus prevents the masses from flocking there. The path ends at a crescent-shaped beach that offers the Golden Gate Bridge and the city of San Francisco as a backdrop. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also camp here, but only with a prior reservation. Michael and I still plan on doing that someday. Then, we'll report live from the campsite on the edge of the city!
Best regards!
Angelika & Michael