Blogger: Stephanie Lynch
As you all know, we recently went on a 6 week trip throughout the USA and Canada. One of our stops was San Francisco. This was one of the spots I was most looking forward to exploring. San Francisco has been on my bucket list for ages so I was so excited to explore it and gather some San Fran tips for you guys.
- You can’t go to San Fran and not go to the Golden Gate Bridge. Be sure to explore it from the Sausalito side. What a wonderful experience… it is amazing to see and of course to get your ‘obligatory’ San Fran picture!!
- Have dinner in the world-renowned waterfront community of Sausalito, California. The charming bay side town is home to a friendly, electric group of people that are passionate about the area in which they live. Be sure to have dinner in ‘The Spinnaker’, a place on the waterfront full of fresh seafood and panoramic views. Such a outstanding meal and it is a must in Sausalito.
- Drive over the Golden Gate Bridge at night and enjoy the lights and views of the city ahead of you.
- Go to the windiest street in the world(Lombard St.)…. a very cool experience with amazing views. A little tip is to drive around this area(other streets and hills nearby) as it is very high up and gives you a real feel for the character of the city and houses with each road surrounded by unbelievable views all around.
- Explore Hyde St. Pier(historic ferry pier). You will fall in love with Hyde St. Pier as it is nice, quiet and very quaint. This pier is part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Various historical ships are anchored to the pier. The ship ‘Balclutha’, an 1886 square rigged sailing ship won our hearts!!
- Experience fisherman’s Wharf. It is one of the most scenic waterfront attractions of the world so we just had to explore it. A little history: The original Meigg’s Wharf was once the main port of entry to San Francisco and an extremely industrious place. Hardworking fishermen set out to make a living by catching fish and crab in small vessels at the wharf. It is the heritage of these early fishermen, which contributes to today’s color blending of the old and the new at Fisherman’s Wharf. It is, and always will be, the fishing fleet that gives Fisherman’s Wharf its authenticity and activity.
- Rent a bike rental company called Blazing Saddles and cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge.
- The San Francisco cable car system is the world’s last manually operated cable car system. The cable car actually takes people on along the way so DON’T que by fisherman’s wharf(You could be waiting hours)…. just simple walk up the hill slightly to the next stop and jump on… save yourself time!
- Go a little off the beaten track. Drive up the coast to Half Moon Bay. It is a few hours outside the city but is worth the drive for the peace, tranquility and quaint village.
- Go on a road trip to Nicosia. Be sure to drive down Lucas Valley Road (This is where George Lucas(starwars) built his Skywalker Ranch… a movie ranch and workplace). The beauty and views as you drive along are just breathtaking.
