SF is an inherently romantic city. Situated atop a hilly peninsula, it has 3x the opportunity for waterfront views and plenty of high-up vantage points to take in the city's skyline & many iconic landmarks. Here are a few of the spots best for a scenic view, a Bay-side stroll, or an intimate dinner.
Pier 7
Find a seat on one of the waterfront benches along this scenic pier and soak in epic views of both the SF skyline and the Bay. Try and plan your arrival for just before sunset for the best scenery, and while you take it in you can decide on a nearby spot for dinner.
See MoreCoit Tower
Way up above the North Beach neighborhood, Coit Tower offers one of the best views in the city. It's about $10 to climb to the top of the 210-foot-high tower, which is a bit of a trek but worth the cost & effort for the 360º view you're treated to. Also keep your ear out for the squawking of the Telegraph Hill parrots – they're local celebs!
See MoreIna Coolbrith Park
This is an excellent viewpoint high atop the city that's much less well-known than Coit. If you're looking to walk off your Chinatown dim sum lunch or that slice you grabbed in North Beach, a trek up the Vallejo Street stairs to this scenic pocket park is sure to do the trick.
See MorePalace of Fine Arts
Right on the edge of the Presidio, this iconic spot and its surrounding grassy expanses are perfect for a picnic. After your al fresco lunch, walk toward the Bay to explore the waterfront expanse of Chrissy Field.
See MoreSutro Baths
Grab a coffee and start your day at this unique seaside historic site. Then stroll along the Ocean Beach shoreline to grab a bite in the Outer Richmond or Outer Sunset neighborhoods – the breakfast sandwich from Devil's Teeth Bakery is particularly standout!
See MoreBaker Beach
It's hard to imagine a more idyllic Golden Gate Bridge view in SF than what you're treated to at Baker Beach. Plop down onto the sand, befriend some local dogs, and take in the fresh sea air. And be sure to keep your eyes peeled for harbor porpoises in the water!
See MoreTop of the Mark
Perched atop the historic Mark Hopkins hotel, this beloved bar offers one of the best bird's eye views of the city. Plus, the cocktails are legitimately great and there's almost always live music from a pianist – all in all, about as old-world charming as a bar can get!
See MoreBoulevard
Boulevard is perhaps the most impeccably-decorated restaurants in the city, but the Californian menu is just as impressive. Choose between a set price menu and an à la carte menu, both of which focus on fresh, local, super seasonal ingredients.
See MoreOriginal Joe's
This place oozes old world charm from its dark wood bar to the crackling fireplace to the expertly crafted martinis. Perfect spot to cozy into a booth for a classic Italian dinner or swing by for a nightcap to wind down after a long day of exploring the city on foot 🍸
See MoreForeign Cinema
Excellent California cuisine and a magical outdoor patio are on the menu at Foreign Cinema in the Mission district. The open air space is adorned with string lights and features a huge white wall where movies are projected. It’s the ultimate date spot for a romantic evening under the stars, or if the weather's less friendly, you can vie for a spot next to the fireplace inside.
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