Haypress Campground

Whether fast single track mountain biking is your thing, or you’re more of a road bike warrior , GGNRA will be your bag, baby! Our friends at the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy also have made a list of their 7 favorite rides .

Stow Lake, in Golden Gate park, is a great spot for inexperienced boaters. Cruising around this lake is truly a joy ride, as this part of the park has some wonderful views of the surrounding area and the city. Paddleboat and rowboats can be rented close to the lake.

Recreational anglers in this area can (with a little patience and some good bait) expect to catch things like brown smoothhound, pile surfperch and white croaker. Chrissy Field also offers a spot where visitors can fish and crab without a license — just make sure to pay attention to any posted regulations.

Golden Gate National Recreation area is huge! Whatever you are looking for in a national park, chances are Golden Gate National Recreation Area has it. There are some of the best trails in Northern California, beautiful natural areas, historic sites, and you’ve probably seen most of them on postcards numerous times (with wide eyes and a yearning to be there). One of our favorite hikes is the Land’s End Lookout, or anywhere along Bolinas Ridge. They are quality spots to go for a casual hike, or if the weather is nice, watch the sunset. One of the most popular hikes (and for good reason) is Muir Woods . The trees are insanely huge and there are gorgeous views. Just make sure you stop by for a beer at the German Tourist Club, it’s a local secret and a very unique spot. Remember to check and make sure it is open before you go (they have a very limited schedule). If you’re into checking out massive gun batteries (which were used to defend the Bay at one point), then you’ll want to check out the Marin Headlands . You’ll also be spoiled with gorgeous views of the Golden Gate bridge...nice!

Paddling at the Golden Gate is one of the most spectacular experiences you can have in California. Let your stoke levels build as you are out there on the water, with gorgeous iconic scenery surrounding you. If you’re looking for something extra special, try to hit this kayak spot at sunset. Need a kayak? No worries! You can get your rentals, or join an awesome tour !

Crissy Field shoreline is a popular spot for kiteboarding. Why, you ask? Well, because it’s rad (and boasts some ridiculous views)!

Ever heard of Ocean Beach? It’s a massive expanse of coastline that happens to also have some world class breaks (on the right day). I mean, Kelly Slater did win the Rip Curl Pro here! Surfing Ocean Beach can be an amazing experience, but it is also considered a very hard paddle out, so probably best for intermediate-to-advanced surfers. Some other great options are Fort Point, which is a left handed break right under the Golden Gate Bridge, and, a bit further north, Stinson Beach. Make sure you check out conditions before you jump in.

Don’t let the urban feel of Golden Gate fool you – there is plenty of wildlife to see here. Be on the lookout for animals such as harbor seals, sea lions, river otter, mountain lions and monarch butterflies.