This marine protected area forms part of the Point Reyes National Seashore. Encompassing an area of 0.66 square miles (1.7 square kilometers), Duxbury Reef State Marine Conservation Area is home to unique marine life, which is protected within the area. The thriving marine flora and fauna can be witnessed here in their natural habitat. You can spot many local varieties of fish, sea birds, and marine mammals, including white sharks. The place is also an excellent destination to explore the region's rock formations.
Developed by physicist Frank Oppenheimer and opened in 1969, this innovative and interactive museum is dedicated to art, science and human perception. Relocated from the Palace of Fine Arts to Piers 15 and 17, the modern space features plenty of new green technologies including the largest solar panel roof in San Francisco and offers over 600 hands-on exhibits. These hands-on displays unveil the mysteries of science and language, and present these theories simply and succinctly. Webinars, special events and seminars occur throughout the year. This San Francisco gem is a must visit.
Classrooms, camp groups, and children's clubs from around the Bay Area take trips to Crab the Cove Visitor Center to learn about marine and estuarine ecosystems, and the importance of their preservation. It is located in a lush green park on the beach in the Island City of Alameda. In addition to museum-like marine wildlife displays, some of which are interactive, the center offers the 'Old Wharf Classroom', where guests enjoy presentations on topics such as shoreline wildlife and the food chains of the San Francisco Bay.
Gray Whale Cove State Beach on the California coastline sits just 20 minutes south of San Francisco on Interstate Highway 1. It is named after the gray whales that have been known to make an appearance off the coast here. It is situated off the rocky cliffs just before you reach Montara. You can access the 800-foot beach from a trail that starts at the parking lot. Sunbathing is the most popular activity and do not be surprised if you see more skin than normal. On this beach is clothing optional. The beach is open daily from 8 am.
The Conservatory of Flowers, located in Golden Gate Park, transports you from the city to a tropical rain forest, minus the exotic animals. The five galleries within the conservatory include the Lowland Tropics, Plotted Plants, Aquatic Plants, Highland Tropics and an ever changing special exhibit. The Conservatory of Flowers displays plants and flowers in its unique environment, offers guided school tours and is available to rent for corporate events and weddings. This gallery of flowers is a must see for any nature or horticulture lover.