As a San Francisco Bay Area transplant I frequently struggle with finding a city/outdoor balance. I try to find any opportunity to get outdoors even in the midst of a busy city life. Luckily, the bay area offers many beautiful opportunities to get outside and hike. Here are a few of my favorites.

1. Alamere Falls

Starting at the Palomarin trailhead, this hike takes you on an 14-mile round trip hike to a breathtaking and rare tidal waterfall. I advise you to get to the parking lot early to avoid a long walk to the trailhead and large crowds of hikers. The trail will take you through dense forest, gorgeous lake views, and breathtaking coastal vantage points. Bring a lunch and plenty if water as it is a long and strenuous hike. There is an option the cut the hike short and go off main trail. The National park service does not recommend it, as many people get injured along the coastal bluffs.

2. Mori Point

Mori Point is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and offers stunning coastal views, a chance to see rabbits, wildflowers and other wildlife. It is a fairly easy hike and family friendly. It’s a 2.5 loop but if you can also add on a short walk to Pacifica Pier where you can grab a coffee at The Chit Chat Cafe and watch the local fish off the Pier. Very lovely spot to escape the business of the city for the afternoon.

3. Lands End

Although this has become a must see for many tourists coming to San Francisco, it hold a special place in my heart. Lands End was the first place in San Francisco that I felt like I was entirely out of the city. There are many positives about this trail: it offers spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, there is an incredible labyrinth to explore if you choose to take the steps down to Mile Rock Beach, it offers a glimpse into the history of the area, and it is lush with california native plants and wildflowers. You can choose to start the trail at Lands end lookout right next to the cliff house and the former site of Sutro Baths. Make sure to walk down to the old site of sutro baths and check out the tunnel, there are some incredible acoustics in there. Or you can start the trail near the Legion of Honor at Eagle point. I recommend the Sutro Baths trailhead as there is more parking. Regardless, you will not be disappointed!

4. Kirby Cove

This 3-mile round trip hike is located on the North side of the Golden Gate bridge. The geology of the place is incredible, the views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate bridge are to die for, and the beach is gorgeous. Many people hike down for a photo with the swing at the beach but I prefer to pack a lunch maybe even some wine and enjoy the views. Parking may be tough on Conzelman drive but usually the lots have a quick turn around rate because people are taking photos and then leaving, so be patient. You do not want to miss out on this spot!

5. Moss Beach/Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

This is less of a hike and more of a visit to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. However, this is a one mile loop along the coastal bluffs leading to a serene beach. Once you come down from the bluffs, you will experience some of the best rocky tide poles in the area. Be sure to come at low tide, bring your binoculars, and be prepared to trudge through some sand!