Although it's a modern city, San Francisco has a lot of beautiful nature spots. There is a wide range of outdoor and physical activities for its residents to indulge in. Whether you're looking to relax or keep yourself fit, there is likely a class, club, or studio to fit your needs.
Nature in San Francisco
If you want to take a deep breath of fresh air and see some greenery, you don't have to have to travel outside San Francisco. You just need to lace your shoes and get out to enjoy the beautiful nature, with parks, reserves, and playgrounds all around you – not to mention the coastline.
Mount Davidson Park
If you live around Lansdale Avenue and Dalewood Way, you will be close to these natural beauty spots. Mount Davidson was filmed in the action film 'Dirty Harry' in 1971. It is one of the highest natural peaks in San Francisco, located in the serene environment of Sherwood Forest near the city's center. If you get to the summit, you will get a great view of San Francisco and the Bay Area in particular.
Bernal Heights
This is one of San Francisco's most famous natural spots. It takes just 20 minutes to walk to the top of this hill to get a spectacular view of the whole city. At first, you will mostly see the townhouses, but the views become more and more breathtaking as you climb to the top.
Golden Gate Park
If you are looking for a solitary place to wander and contemplate, this is an excellent option. One interesting thing about this park is its weekend music festival. The park fills up with musicians, drummers, and people taking part in workshops, and it's a great opportunity for people-watching.
The Presidio
With 24 miles of hiking trails among evergreen trees, this park is a great place to run and explore at a more leisurely pace. The park includes a museum and restaurants, and many events are regularly held there.
Sports activities in San Francisco
If you are interested in watching some sports teams perform or indulge in any sports activities, San Francisco has everything you need, from playgrounds to sports clubs and gyms.
Beaches and watersports
Water sports are very popular in San Francisco, so going to the beach isn't just about getting a tan, relaxing, or swimming. If you like to surf, kayak, swimboard, or SUP, there are plenty of places to do so.
Yoga
There are dozens of yoga studios in SF offering all different yoga styles. Hatha, Iyenga, Kin, it's all there for you. Just search for your neighborhood and a yoga studio, and you'll find something.
Indoor climbing and bouldering
Indoor climbing and bouldering are super popular options for those who want an outdoor-effort level of workout. Bouldering gyms in SF include Dogpatch Boulders and Mission Cliffs. Climbing can be social, and the gym is a good spot to make friends.
Baseball
If you're a baseball fan, you can go to live games and watch your favorite player on the pitch. The tickets are affordable, and it's an excellent way to spend some time with your friends. Matches are also broadcast live on TV if you prefer to stay on your couch with a drink and some fries.
Tennis
It costs $10 to use Golden Gate Park tennis courts, a popular public court near the Golden Gate Bridge. Tennis is a great way to get fit and be social at the same time – and if you take it more seriously, there are local tennis clubs you can join.
Other sports, like biking, climbing, boating, fishing, golf, ice skating, hiking, running, etc., are also very popular in San Francisco. You will definitely be able to find something that suits you. Facebook groups, Meetup.com, and just a classic Google search for a sports team, studio, class, or gym near you will be the best way to get started.
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