Marin Headlands

Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff you will enjoy the wild serenity of the Marin Headlands. This hilly peninsula is located north of San Francisco just over the Golden Gate Bridge. It used to be a military installation to keep enemies from entering the San Francisco Bay, so you will find evidence of its military past strewn all over the 2000 acres of parkland. The park features several hiking and biking trails, beaches, a working lighthouse, and a beautiful hostel. With stunning views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge you will want to make sure to have your camera ready as you explore. The Headlands are also home to the Marine Mammal Center, the Foundation for Deep Ecology, and the Headlands Center for the Arts, which are fun to visit with kids. So take some time out from the pleasures of San Francisco to check out its wild northern neighbor.