Fort Funston Beach

The southernmost Pacific facing beach in San Francisco, Fort Funston Beach is included as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Rather windy, especially on the top of the sandy bluffs that surround it, Fort Funston Beach has become a haven for hang gliders. They launch from a special ramp most frequently between March and October.

The main downside to Fort Funston Beach if you’re not hang gliding is the steep walk down to the beach via one of two paths, both of which would be a struggle with young children. However, if you’re a keen walker, they act as the start of a series of hiking trails that wind themselves around the cliffs.

Fort Funston Beach is named after a coastal battery that can still be seen. It first housed naval guns, and then missiles from the Nike anti-aircraft system which were launched from what is now the car park.

Long and thin, the beach is around 400 metres in length, but can be largely lost during the high tide. Particular care should be taken during the highest tides in the month. Dogs can be taken off leads, though its worth keeping them under tight control as they are known to slip down the cliffs requiring an organised rescue response.

Visitors will find parking off Skyline Boulevard, but beyond that facilities are limited to temporary toilets.