Marshall's Beach
San Francisco, CA
Marshall's Beach is a foot-access-only stretch of sand tucked below the Presidio's bluffs, quieter than the more developed beaches nearby simply because there's no direct parking lot. Stairs and a bluff top trail are the only way in, which keeps the crowd thin even on a busy weekend.
Genuinely quieter than its more famous neighbors thanks to the foot-only access, though the stairs down are a real commitment compared to a drive-up beach.
How we score beachesWear real shoes for the stairs and bluff trail down, this isn't a beach you can reach in sandals from a nearby lot.
Free parking is available at the bluff top trailhead.
Stairs and a bluff top trail lead down to the beach; there's no direct vehicle access.
Dogs are not allowed at Marshall's Beach, even on leash, aside from service animals.
Fog is common most mornings year round, with water staying cold in the bay and ocean alike.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.