Beloved as the best beach for swimming in San Francisco, Crissy Field East Beach in the Presidio is where families flock to on sunny days. Popular pastimes for making the most of pleasant weather out at Crissy Field’s beach include picnics, taking selfies backdropped by the Golden Gate Bridge, and reveling in the spectacle of the high-flying kite surfers who revere the area as one of the top spots for the sport. With easy parking, accessible restrooms, and views that rival anywhere in the world, Crissy Field East Beach has rightfully become a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike whenever the fog forgets to show its face.
Water Sports
Every beach in NorCal comes with risks but Crissy Field East Beach is regarded as among the safest spots in the city for wading and swimming. Though caution and vigilance are always encouraged, it’s not uncommon to see folks take the plunge into the Bay here, while farther off the shore, the acrobatic spectacle of kite surfers — who regularly converge on the site thanks to the unique flow of thermal winds and storm fronts coming through the Golden Gate — provide a perpetual source of entertainment for those on land.
Shade
Ironically, while shade isn’t often in high demand at Crissy Field East Beach, the Presidio’s nearby Warming Hut Park Store earned its name as a place to avoid the wind and allow a chance for visitors to dethaw. Located past the western end of Crissy Field on the historic Torpedo Wharf, the Warming Hut’s inventory for purchase includes everything from snacks to souvenirs. Fun fact: this small outpost has survived for more than a century, having first served as a U.S. Engineer Storehouse during the Presidio’s long tenure as a military barracks.
Wildlife
For the best chance at spotting wildlife, head next door to the restored wetlands of Crissy Marsh, which attracts more than 300 bird species as a pitstop during their annual Pacific Flyway migration. From the marsh’s bridge, you’ll have a great chance to spot Caspian Terns, Belted Kingfishers, and Great Egrets, to name but a few of the many feathered inhabitants who regularly swoop by the Presidio.
Where to Eat & Drink
If you don’t feel like walking to the Warming Hut Park Store for provisions, you’re best off bringing a picnic or coming early to claim one of Crissy Field East Beach’s grill sites. For those willing to stretch their legs, adjacent areas of the Presidio are host to numerous restaurants.
Dalida
Recently opened Mediterranean eatery Dalida serves breakfast through dinner and has a full bar.Â
Colibri Mexican Bistro
The always scrumptious Colibri Mexican Bistro serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming, modernized atmosphere.
Directions and Parking
Part of Crissy Field East Beach’s popularity undoubtedly stems from how easy it is to get there. If arriving by car, you’ll find free parking available in an on-site lot as well as addition paid parking provided across the road.Â
Free parking is available at the Crissy Field Beach parking lot. Additional paid parking can be found in a lot just across the road on Mason Street. To access Crissy Field’s beach by public transit, take the Muni 30 Stockton bus (get off at Mason Street & Yacht Road) or hop on the free Presidio GO Shuttle if you’re already within the park’s grounds.
