SAN Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic United States photo spot - but it can be hard to snap the perfect pic.
Luckily, the mile-long stretch known as Baker Beach provides the perfect opportunity to get your shot.
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Set just below the cliffs on the shoreline of the Presidio, Baker Beach is known for being one of the top spots in San Francisco as it offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
The public beach is open 24/7 and draws visitors year-round seeking a dose of nature and history.
Here, we round up everything you need to know to travel to California's Baker Beach.
WHY BAKER BEACH?
The Presidio, formerly under Spanish and Mexican control before becoming a military post under the U.S. Army, has been part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area since 1994.
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It's comprised of a forest, lake, national cemetery, historic airfield, and beaches.
Baker Beach sits on the western shore of the Presidio.
From the beach, visitors have uninterrupted views of the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, as well as the Marin Headlands and the Pacific Ocean.
Baker Beach also famously served as the first home of the Burning Man festival.
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The festival's founder, Larry Harvey, created the event by constructing and burning a human-shaped sculpture, which drew a crowd.
Burning Man grew in popularity each year as festivalgoers gathered at the beach from 1986 to 1990.
The festival then relocated to Nevada.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BAKER BEACH VACATION DEALS?
Baker Beach's location on the outskirts of San Francisco means that there are plenty of flight and accommodation options for your trip.
New York, Chicago, and Atlanta are among the hubs offering nonstop flights.
Many major airports around the country offer roundtrip flights for under $300.
As far as accommodation, San Francisco offers a variety of hotels, bed and breakfast stays, and other options.
Campers can claim a spot at the tent-only Rob Hill Campground, located on the Presidio grounds, where reservations are available between April and October.
While there aren't many hotels right on Baker Beach, there are options a short distance away.
Many hotels are located on the eastern outskirts of the Presidio along the famed Lombard Street.
Other options lie right on the Fisherman's Wharf, or farther away from the downtown San Francisco area if you prefer a quieter location.
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WHAT MAKES BAKER BEACH WORLD-CLASS?
Baker Beach is one of the only spots in the world offering unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
In addition, visitors can access and walk across the bridge from the Presidio to experience the bridge from multiple vantage points.
The sweeping views combined with the beach's Burning Man history make it a top destination.
The beach also features a 50-ton disappearing gun that was installed by the Army in 1904.
Once per month, rangers from the National Parks Service demonstrate how it was operated.
Baker Beach's proximity to the Presidio is also a huge draw, as many attractions and activities can be discovered there.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO IN BAKER BEACH?
In addition to the traditional sunbathing and other beach activities, there is plenty to do and see in the Baker Beach area.
The water tends to be too cold for swimming but makes for a perfect strolling spot if you're still itching to have your toes in the sand.
Of course, snapping photos of the Golden Gate Bridge is also a must when visiting Baker Beach.
The Presidio has a variety of attractions and has hiking, biking, golf, and picnicking opportunities.
Visitors can hike the Coastal Trail along the cliffs of the Presidio.
Disney fans can pay a visit to The Walt Disney Family Museum and Café, located on the Presidio grounds.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BAKER BEACH?
Getting to Baker Beach is also relatively easy thanks to San Francisco's Muni system, or PresidiGo shuttle.
While the beach can be warm enough for sunbathing, it is also known to get chilly, so it's recommended to wear layers.
Some even recommend sturdy shoes if you're planning to hike, as the cliffs can be steep and rocky.
The northern tip of the beach is a clothing-optional spot, as is the nearby Marshall's Beach - so if this isn't your cup of tea, it's best to stay closer to the southern end.
There are plenty of activities and attractions in the immediate vicinity of Baker Beach.
The Presidio is home to a host of restaurants, including Colibri Mexican Bistro, Presidio Bowl and Grill, Presidio Café at Presidio Golf Course, and Sessions at the Presidio.
There are also a variety of food trucks and carts boasting the diverse cuisine that the Bay Area offers located within the Presidio, just a short walk from Baker Beach.
Just outside of the Presidio is the Richmond District, which features a variety of restaurants.
Of course, there is also tons to explore within downtown San Francisco, including the Fisherman's Wharf, located to the east of the Presidio.
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There, visitors can find seafood restaurants galore, shops, and the Historic Ghirardelli Square.
While in town, you might wish to take a ride on San Francisco's historic cable car system, which can connect you to various parts of the city.
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