The Presidio

Locals come to the Presidio, the wooded shoreline park just west of the Marina, for a quick in-town getaway, the spirit-lift only an amble on the sand in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge can provide. Within the Presidio, Crissy Field's 100 acres of restored tidal marshland are a haven for dog owners and families with kids, who flock here to walk the wooden promenade and stroll the sand dunes. Getting to and around the Presidio on public transportation can be spotty, so drive; happily, this is one place in town where parking is ample and free.