The Adventure Cats one and a half hour catamaran cruise around the San Francisco Bay gives visitors an exceptional view of the skyline that includes going under the Golden Gate Bridge. While sitting on the trampolines, or inside the cabin, visitors enjoy the scenic view while sipping wine or having a soft drink. The Sunset Cruise offers not only wine or a soft drink, but also appetizers for the price of the ticket. You may go home and tell your friends and family that the catamaran cruise was the highlight of your trip to San Francisco.
University of California Botanical Garden is located within the campus of University of California Berkeley. Open to the public since 1890, this is no less than an outdoor living museum that boasts over 12,000 species of flora and fauna. The garden can be rented for private events, wedding receptions, twilight tours, summer walks and concerts.
Even if you don't have previous experience you can rent a single or double kayak as well as a stand up paddle board from Sea Trek on their beautiful sandy beach in Sausalito. Their friendly experienced staff will take you to the water's edge and give you all the instruction and directions you need to enjoy the kayak or paddle board. You can also join them on guided tours and classes.
This historic waterfront area dates back to the Ohlone Indians and is an integral part of the Presidio of San Francisco. Having harbored Native Americans, Spanish settlers, and the U.S. Army throughout the years, Crissy Field has undergone numerous transformations. Today, the city by the bay has once again transformed this area into a recreational space. Visitors will find an educational center, a rock climbing gym, a café, and other establishments in the vicinity. The field also features walking paths, lush lawns, and picnic tables. Gorgeous views of the Golden Gate abound, and you can also unwind on a scenic beach area and enjoy birdwatching along a marsh.
Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge is Mount Tamalpais State Park, a popular hiking area and home of some of the best views of the Bay Area. There are many hikes over varied terrain, including oak and Douglas fir forest, vast grasslands and the distinctive redwood trees. The views of the Pacific are jaw-dropping - once the fog has cleared, that is. Visitors can drive into the park and enjoy the sights, including the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed, the Mountain Theater (a stone amphitheater which can accommodate over 3000 people) or they can park in the many parking lots throughout the park and hike down to Stinson Beach. For a less strenuous hike, venture a little down a winding trail high above the ocean, with incredible views of San Francisco. While entry to the park is free, certain areas charge a nominal parking fee.