Whether you decided to take another crack at Tinder, or just want to have a lovely evening in the city, we’re here to help! Lucky for you, our followers know plenty of beautiful outdoor spots to check out. Here are their responses to our Instagram poll asking for the most romantic places in San Francisco.
What would you add to the list?
1. Foreign Cinema‘s outdoor patio
This magical outdoor patio is adorned with string lights and features a large screen to project films. It’s the ultimate date spot for a romantic evening under the stars, especially if you get a spot next to the fireplace.
2. Dolores Park at night
This popular, 16-acre green space has hosted countless festivals, concerts, and other events. But it’s also the city’s favorite spot for people watching, catching up with friends, and enjoying amazing views.
3. Pier 7
Here’s a lovely spot on the water that’s undeniably romantic! Go at sunset for the best experience.
4. Baker Beach
Baker Beach is an essential spot for anyone wanting to admire the Golden Gate Bridge on the edge of the water! Sit in the sand, befriend local dogs, and take in the fresh air.
5. The Embarcadero
The Embarcadero is where you’ll find sparkling views of San Francisco’s cityscape. Watch the twinkling lights reflect off the water and enjoy the best of the Bay at the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf.
6. Fort Point
Fort Point is another essential Golden Gate Bridge viewing spot. Watch the waves crash against the shore or check out some of the war-era artifacts that have been preserved around the area. You can even take a special candlelight tour on weekends from November through February, which transports you back to the look and feel of 1800s-era San Francisco.
7. Coit Tower
Coit Tower is an essential San Francisco landmark. Visitors can travel to the top of the 210-foot-high tower and marvel at 360-degree views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, and much more.
8. Palace of Fine Arts
This popular spot is right on the edge of the Presidio. The Palace of Fine Arts was famously designed by Bernard Maybeck for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, and it’s stood as one of the most iconic landmarks in the City ever since! Sprawl out on the grass and enjoy the beautiful palace with a sunset backdrop.
9. Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a collection of colorful Victorian houses that you can view from Alamo Square. Take a picnic and enjoy awesome views and people watching, especially at sunset.
10. Ina Coolbrith Park at night
This small, unassuming park in Russian Hill is really a hidden gem when you’re looking for great city views. Climb the steps all the way to the top for a spectacular sunset reward, or lounge on the benches for a romantic evening.
11. Ocean Beach
This stunning beach along the west coast of the city is perfect for bonfires (March through October), but remember that the water is extremely unsafe. However it’s great for watching the sunset or enjoying a beach picnic! The view pictured is from nearby Sutro Heights.
12. SF Botanical Garden
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a beautiful, relaxing green space with 7,700 types of plants across 55 acres. It’s free to visit for all SF City and County residents with proof of residency, and the general public can get in for free before 9am daily and on the second Tuesday of every month. Be sure to visit during magnolia season between January and March!
13. Battery Cranston
Battery Cranston is one of numerous military batteries situated around the SF Bay, but it’s especially unique for its views of the Golden Gate Bridge and surrounding scenery. You can park along Merchant Road and walk the Coastal Trail for some of the most scenic views in the city.
14. Sutro Baths
The immensely popular Land’s End Trail offers dramatic views of the ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. This moderate hike will take you to the Sutro Baths, the ruins of a public swimming pool dating back to 1896. You can take a more accessible route along the Golden Gate Promenade and snap some incredible photos along the way.
15. Shakespeare Garden
The Garden of Shakespeare’s Flowers, better known as the Shakespeare Garden, is a must-see for literature lovers. This romantic garden is home to over 200 unique flowers and plants, all of which are mentioned in Shakespeare’s works. Whether you’re a diehard literature fan, or just looking for a pleasant picnic spot, it’s certainly worth a visit. Bring your favorite play and watch the imagery jump off the page.
16. SkyStar Wheel at sunset
SkyStar installed this 150-foot tall Ferris wheel in honor of Golden Gate Park’s 150th anniversary, and the views are especially amazing at sunset. Tickets are $18 general admission and $12 for kids 12 and under.
17. Letterman Digital Arts Center Recycled Water Pond
The Letterman Digital Arts Center, home of Lucasfilm in SF’s Presidio, is beloved for its iconic Yoda Fountain in front of Building B. But right nearby is a lovely recycled water pond with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. Stroll through the campus and see the sights!
18. Twin Peaks
These 2 adjacent peaks in the City stand 922 feet tall, making them second only to Mt. Davidson. The park itself is 64 acres, and you can see breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay by hiking the 0.7 mile trail network to the top. You can also observe plenty of animal and plant diversity during your journey.
19. Wave Organ
The Wave Organ, created by artists Peter Richards and George Gonzalez in 1986, is an acoustic sculpture activated by the waves of the San Francisco Bay. Its haunting music comes from 25 different organ pipes placed at different levels around the sculpture, changing with the rise and fall of the tides.
20. Lover’s Lane
Lover’s Lane is the oldest footpath through the Presidio, once used by Spanish soldiers and missionaries. The shady path is about 0.6 miles long, and takes you right near this sculptural wooden installation called Wood Line by renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy.