San Francisco in summer: best things to do and see

San Francisco comes alive in summer with tons of summer events and world-famous festivals, outdoor entertainment, and many chances to get out on the water. You can explore famous neighborhoods like the Castro, cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge — or take a seaplane over it — and explore its huge parks filled with fun things to do in summer.

Eager to soak up the glorious sunshine? Ditch those restaurant reservations and feast on some of the finest street food on the West Coast. Heading into town with little ones? You'll find plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. There are charming hidden gems to discover too, so it's easy to avoid the usual tourist traps and experience summertime in San Francisco in a unique way. This summer guide to San Francisco will help you plan an awesome trip.

Best outdoor activities

1. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge from the air

Marvel at the Golden Bridge from the air. Thanks to the Bay Area location, you don't even need a conventional runway. A seaplane tour will put you within grabbing distance of one of San Francisco's most iconic landmarks.

Highlights:

With a Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour, you can look forward to an aerial experience unlike any other. With a guaranteed window seat, jaw-dropping views come as standard.

Address and opening hours:

Mason St and Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133. Departure times vary.

2. Stroll through San Francisco Botanical Garden

Opened in 1940, this beautiful attraction now has more than 8,000 species of plants, with specimens sourced from as far and wide as New Zealand and the Andes. If you've got a green thumb, this is one attraction you shouldn't miss.

Highlights:

The San Francisco Botanical Garden has plants from every corner of the globe. Specialty collections include the Ancient Plant Garden and Mesoamerican Cloud Forest.

Address and opening hours:

1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122. Monday-Sunday 7:30 AM-9:00 PM.

3. Explore the open-air attractions at Golden Gate Park

Many famous San Francisco landmarks can be found within Golden Gate Park, but with so much square footage available, you don't have to worry about contending with crowds. There's always something new to discover here.

Highlights:

If you're visiting Golden Gate Park in the summer months, head to the Music Concourse. This open-air plaza is the ideal place to recharge with refreshments before heading out to explore everything the park has to offer.

Address and opening hours:

San Francisco, CA. Open 24 hours.

4. Explore San Francisco's LGBTQIA+ heritage

For decades, San Francisco has boasted one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the world. It's also been the stage for many defining moments in LGBTQIA+ history, with the Castro district right at the heart of the fight for equality.

Highlights:

With a walking tour of the Castro, you'll explore the personal histories of some of San Francisco's most celebrated LGBTQIA+ figures, including Harvey Milk. You'll also visit spots like the Rainbow Honor Walk and Pink Triangle Park.

Address and opening hours:

400 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114. Tour times vary.

5. Enjoy an escape experience in one of SF's hippest neighborhoods

Head to Haight Ashbury for an outdoor escape game with a difference. You'll learn more about the famous faces that called this district home as you solve challenges and seek out the next location.

Highlights:

With a Haight Ashbury Outdoor Escape Game, you can explore Haight Ashbury at your own pace. Perfect for those looking for a fresh twist on the usual sightseeing guides.

Address and opening hours:

1485 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117. Start times vary.

Best water activities

6. Head out onto the Bay for a maritime adventure

Enjoy unbeatable views of local landmarks like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge as you sail across the Bay. Don't forget to reach for your phone to take advantage of all those photo ops.

Highlights:

With a one-hour boat cruise on San Francisco Bay, you'll pass by some of the city's most beloved landmarks. When sailing past Pier 39, keep your eyes peeled for the California sea lions.

Address and opening hours:

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133. Tour times vary.

7. Take in the sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and Oakland Bay Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge isn't the only architectural marvel that spans the Bay. The Oakland Bay Bridge is just as important for locals and is an impressive feat of engineering. While you can always explore both of them on foot, sailing by these architectural marvels offers unbeatable views.

Highlights:

With a Bridge to Bridge Cruise, you can take in both of these majestic landmarks. An audio guide will provide you with fascinating historical insights.

Address and opening hours:

San Francisco Bay, CA. Departure times vary.

8. Head to Sausalito for an afternoon excursion

Set aside some time to visit one of San Fran's neighboring cities. Sausalito is just a short trip away. This bustling harbor city's Mediterranean-inspired architecture and plentiful galleries and boutiques make a great day trip.

Highlights:

With a round-trip ferry ticket to Sausalito, you can explore this enchanting city at your leisure. Enjoy a bite to eat or stock up on souvenirs before heading back.

Address and opening hours:

San Francisco Bay, CA. Departure times vary.

9. Sail the Bay in style

It's hard to beat sailing across the water aboard the USA 76. This yacht once competed in the America's Cup competition, the oldest event of its kind in the United States.

Highlights:

With an America's Cup Sailing Adventure, you can look forward to a unique sightseeing experience. This yacht is twice as fast as any other charter sailing the Bay today.

Address and opening hours:

2 Beach St, San Francisco, CA. Departure times vary.

10. Cool down with a thrilling adventure boat experience

Visiting San Francisco with the whole family? This family-friendly cruise lets you explore every corner of the Bay, spotting local wildlife and iconic landmarks.

Highlights:

During your Adventure Boat tour on San Francisco Bay, you'll pass by famous landmarks like Alcatraz Island and sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. A guide will point out other must-see sights like the Presidio, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Coit Tower.

Address and opening hours:

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133. Departure times vary.

FAQs

Where can I go swimming or relax by the water in San Francisco?

San Francisco boasts plenty of places to swim. Baker Beach offers public access and is family-friendly. China Beach is another option, close to the Lands End. If you're thinking of heading to Angel Island, try Ayala Cove.

Are there any great summer festivals in San Francisco?

Summer is the perfect time to visit San Francisco if you're looking for festivals and outdoor events. Pier 39's Fourth of July Celebration brings together fireworks, delicious food, and local bands. There are also several film festivals during the summer months, including the San Francisco Frozen Film Festival and San Francisco Jewish Film Festival. In late July, San Fran's famous Pride Parade gets underway, regularly attracting more than a million visitors.

What are the must-visit outdoor attractions in San Francisco?

Muir Woods National Monument is the ideal destination if you're eager to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you're after inspiring views of the city skyline, head to Twin Peaks. If you'd rather stay close to the pulse of the city, there's plenty to discover at Golden Gate Park. Searching for somewhere quieter? Try Mission Dolores Park.

What are some great day trips to take from San Francisco in the summer?

If you're in town for longer, think about scheduling a day trip to Big Sur. This rugged stretch of coast is particularly beautiful with its misty Pacific waters and imposing cliffs. If you're looking to unwind, head to Carmel. This picturesque seaside town is renowned for its enchanting cottages and scenic surroundings.

What are some fun activities with kids in San Francisco in summer?

Why not enjoy an adventure cruise on the Bay? Alternatively, head to the Aquarium on the Bay or the California Academy of Sciences. Once you've finished with the exhibits, you can head outside and explore Golden Gate Park.