Baker Beach

Just west of the Golden Gate Bridge, this mile-long beach off the Presidio is usually packed with locals and visitors alike. Large waves, undertow and rip currents make the beach unsafe for swimming, but it does provide panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands and Lands End as well as the impressive mansions of the Seacliff neighborhood dotted on the cliffs behind you. And be warned, the northern part of the beach is clothing-optional.