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Two women walking at the Pacific Overlook, with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. Photo by Jay Graham.

Pacific Overlook

Iconic views are always to be had at this “edge of the continent" vantage point.

Region

Golden Gate Region

Type

Scenic Overlook

Interests

Recreation

Top Amenities

Golden Gate View, Muni Bus-accessible, Shuttle-accessible, Trail Connection

This scenic stop along the California Coastal Trail is popular with bikers, hikers, and runners for its spectacular Golden Gate Bridge views.

Perched above the coastal bluffs, Pacific Overlook offers an unimpeded view of the vast Pacific Ocean that spans all the way from Lands End to the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s wide stone plaza with benches and interpretive signs is a great place to take a break after hiking along the Bay Area Ridge Trail, California Coastal Trail, and Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail​​.

Map of the Presidio

By Public Transit

Muni Route: 28 19th Avenue

Stop: Golden Gate Bridge Tunnel / Merchant Rd

Directions: From the stop, follow the California Coastal Trail south for 0.4 miles to reach Pacific Overlook.

By Presidio GO Shuttle

Route: South Hills Route

Stop: Stop 8 (near the World War II West Coast Memorial to the Missing)

Parking

There is no parking at Pacific Overlook. The nearest parking can be found in lots adjacent to the World War II West Coast Memorial to the Missing and Langdon Court near the Golden Gate Overlook.

Why We Love Pacific Overlook

Pacific Overlook is regarded as one of the best places in all of San Francisco to witness a sunset backdropped by gorgeous Golden Gate Bridge views.

Accessibility at Pacific Overlook

There is no parking at Pacific Overlook. A similar view experience can be had a short distance to the north at the Golden Gate Overlook, which has a nearby parking lot with spaces for those with mobility limitations.

Insider Tip

It’s just a 10-minute walk down the Batteries to Bluffs Trail to reach “secret” Marshall’s Beach, one of the best beaches near San Francisco (note: some dare to go bare here). And if you’re checking Presidio scenic overlooks off your list, head north along the California Coastal Trail to the Golden Gate Overlook for another spectacular view.

Two men on a bench at Pacific Overlook.Photo by Charity Vargas.

GOLDEN GATE VIEW POINT

Built in 2012, Pacific Overlook is one of several scenic overlooks in the Presidio. It was made possible by a gift from the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund.

Take a Rest After Presidio Hiking

Bikers, hikers, and runners pause here for a meditative moment, as the Pacific Overlook is just off the Bay Area Ridge Trail, California Coastal Trail, Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail​, and the strenuous – but rewarding! – Batteries to Bluffs Trail​. Before resuming your adventure, inhale the refreshing sea air while resting on the rustic wooden benches made with reclaimed Monterey cypress trees from the Presidio’s reforestation program.

Woman taking a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge at Pacific Overlook.
Photo by Jay Graham.

Restrooms and Food

It’s about a half-mile walk on the California Coastal Trail to reach the nearest restrooms at the Golden Gate Bridge plaza. Here, you can also get a snack at the Round House Café.

Nature Notes

It’s our goal to make sure people can enjoy the Presidio’s natural beauty for generations to come. We work to protect native plants and animals while reducing our impact on the environment.

Woman taking a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge at Pacific Overlook.Photo by Jay Graham.

Park Itineraries

Need help planning your day at the Presidio? We’ve put together some itinerary ideas for things to see and do in the park. Whether you’re planning to spend a few hours or an entire day, there’s something for everyone at the Presidio.

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