Ocean Beach — Attraction in San Francisco

I guess this beach has that "Your either going to love it" or "hate it theme," depending on who you ask. For those who grew up near this beach had one opinion and those of us who drove down had another. Here's my take.

As far as beaches go, it's not my preferred, like the ones in Hawaii where you can catch me "almost every year!" The Pacific Ocean to me is "freezing" compared to the warm waters of Hawaii.

With that being said, growing up a Bay Area Native, this beach isn't bad and I've visited this place on numerous occasions over the years. Besides, this is the only beach, this side of San Francisco...

There are other beaches, like "Baker Beach" on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge, but if you don't want the aggravation of fighting the traffic and crowds, this isn't that bad a spot to be!

Parking here isn't bad unless you come on a nice weekend or during those special events, then expect to park somewhere else, because most of the choice spots across the beach are usually taken by early morning.

I've walked this beach during those warm summer months and enjoyed the cool ocean breeze and looking over at the "Dutch Windmill or Sutro Baths" located on John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park.

I've fished from this beach during "striper season" and off the rocks just below the Cliff House Restaurant. On other days, I have just sat and enjoyed the seals frolicking at the nearby rocks or just listened to the waves crashing along the shoreline. I have watched sunsets from the beach and nothing parallels the view!

During the fall months, it gets down right cold here but it's still nice for the occasional walk, but with "long pants and a big jacket!" I enjoyed watching the "fog" roll into the bay from the sea which always reminded me of a "tidal wave!"

The fog here along the San Francisco coast and for that matter in San Francisco itself, is pretty much a staple in these parts!

In the 30's, this beach was packed with people who came out to "bask in the sun" like penguins along with their "Model T Ford's." Nestled on this beach used to be the home of "Play-land," which was a permanent carnival that drew thousands of visitors each week. This carnival which was built decades ago was located just down from the where the Cliff House stands today.

Like I stated earlier, I never swam at this beach because to me it's always windy and cold with the sand slapping your face. Of course, there are the "die hards" and tourists who venture down and take the plunge but I always chuckle when they come out with "purple lips" because the water is cold! In my opinion, I would do like the surfers do, and wear a "wetsuit" because the water here is so freezing! I don't recall ever seeing someone out on their board without a wetsuit...?

Over the years there have been some rescues of swimmers who ventured out too far and were taken out by the "riptides" but overall it's just a pleasant place to stop and walk along the beach or just drive by towards to your next destination.

Parking here during the week has never been a problem for me but during the weekends, it has gotten pretty crowded, especially during the hot summer months! I have attached a few photos of what this place looked like back in the 30's & 40's and you can see the old play land!

Some of the carnival pieces have been moved after the place was demolished to a museum on Fisherman's Wharf, the Museum, "Musée Mécanique," which is located on Pier 45. For those of you who remembered "Play-land" and the iconic "Singing fat lady" she has also been restored and now resides here!

The carnival which was a symbol during our generation has been replaced by a "large parking lot for lack of a better word" along with townhouses. In the pictures, you can also see that back in that "era," everyone wore black and looked like a bunch of seals getting some sun...

Ocean Beach in San Francisco is a true gem that deserves nothing short of a glowing 5-star review. This expansive coastal stretch of sandy shoreline offers an unparalleled experience that captivates locals and visitors alike. With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and a multitude of recreational opportunities, Ocean Beach has something for everyone.

Let's embark on a journey through time and explore the historical significance of this cherished destination. Ocean Beach has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of San Francisco. It was named by the Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775, who aptly recognized its proximity to the vast Pacific Ocean. Throughout the years, Ocean Beach has witnessed the growth and transformation of the city, and it continues to be an integral part of San Francisco's cultural fabric.

The beach's allure goes beyond its historical significance. It boasts a breathtaking coastline that stretches for miles, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The crashing waves create a symphony of sounds that soothe the soul and invite contemplation. The vast expanse of golden sand beckons visitors to take leisurely strolls, build sandcastles, or simply bask in the sun's warm embrace. Ocean Beach is also a popular spot for surfers, who brave the chilly waters in pursuit of the perfect wave.

One cannot overlook the mesmerizing sunsets that grace the horizon at Ocean Beach. As the sun dips below the water's edge, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting a picture-perfect scene that leaves spectators in awe. The tranquility and serenity of these moments are truly unforgettable.

Aside from its natural splendor, Ocean Beach offers a wealth of recreational activities. Whether it's flying a kite, picnicking with loved ones, or engaging in a game of beach volleyball, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy this coastal paradise. It's also worth mentioning the adjacent Golden Gate Park, which provides additional opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Ocean Beach is more than just a beach—it's a sanctuary that allows individuals to connect with nature, find solace, and create lasting memories. Its rich history and captivating beauty make it an essential part of any San Francisco experience.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Ocean Beach to anyone seeking a remarkable coastal retreat. Its historical significance, awe-inspiring vistas, and abundant recreational possibilities make it a must-visit destination. Soak in the natural wonders, embrace the ocean's rhythm, and let Ocean Beach work its magic on your soul.

With profound...

Surfing here 3-5x a week, mainly VFWs. Really fun beach with lots of space but be warned: getting in the water here is a survival situation and not to be taken lightly. If you are able to withstand the ripcurrents, frequent and unpredictable waves, cold water temperature, intimacy with sea life, and plenty of other risk factors, than OB is one of the best surfing beaches in the world; with a sand bottom and a plethora of breaks. There are literally miles of beach at your disposal, fun just to wander, surf, etc.

Common misconceptions are that the beach is always too windy and dirty, or the locale is a deadzone; none of these are true, however, and most days here in this vibrant, burgeoning beach-town mecca are relatively warmer than average, plus the surf is usually 'up' in some form or another. People flock to this beach when the forecast is nice, but luckily the forecast tends to be wrong. OB's weather differs from the rest of SF because it has its own microclimate.

There is a lot to do and see around OB, from Sutro Baths/Seal Rock Point to Funston, but the water at OB is not a joke; as rewarding as it is to surf here it is one of the most challenging, powerful and dangerous spots on the planet. Paddle out to the lineup (through exploding shorebreak) is extremely arduous and requires both physical conditioning and expert knowledge to pull off on most days. The current alone is so strong that you will typically get in at one point, and within minutes your exit would be a mile down the beach. This is a 5 star beach for so many reasons, but a big one for me is our incredible surf zone; despite the risk I can honestly say it is one of my favorite beaches and breaks in the world. See...