Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach, CA
Stinson Beach is one of the Bay Area's most popular beaches, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and a genuine destination for San Francisco day trippers on a clear day. Surf conditions here are approachable enough for beginners, a rarity on a coast that's mostly known for rougher water.
The approachable surf and easy access from San Francisco make it a genuine Bay Area favorite, though that same popularity means real crowds on any nice weekend.
How we score beachesCome on a weekday if you can, this beach fills up fast on sunny weekends given how close it is to San Francisco.
Free parking is available, though it fills quickly on nice weekends.
The path from parking to the sand isn't documented in detail, so allow extra time on your first visit.
Dogs are not allowed on the main, National Park Service managed section of Stinson Beach, though leashed dogs can use the county owned Upton Beach section in the middle and the adjacent parking and picnic areas.
Fog can roll in from San Francisco even on sunny inland days, so check conditions specifically for Stinson before making the drive. Water stays cold year round.
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