The Pacific is finally, just right!
It is rare to want to swim in the ocean in San Francisco. It is just never quite warm enough. Except, however, a week or so at the end of August when we get a classic hot spell. Well folks, it has arrived, and it looks as though it is sticking around. If you want to tell your friends that you took a dip in the Pacific, now is your chance.
For the next week, the city will be in the 80's Fahrenheit (about 37 degrees Celsius). Because it is so late in the summer, the Pacific has warmed up a bit. There are a few beaches to choose from, including Ocean Beach and Baker Beach, both of which are accessible using public transportation and are within the city limits. But, if you have a car, this is the weekend to head over the Golden Gate to Marin County.
Stinson Beach is located along the panoramic highway, just 20 miles north of San Francisco. Although a sleepy town, Stinson has a great place to get some soft serve ice cream, pick up a forgotten bathing suit or flip flops. Down by the shore, there are bathrooms and public showers, as well as lifeguards. This is a great family beach, fun to swim at and...don't forget to stop and pick up a boogie board!
After a long day at the beach, miss the traffic by hanging out at the Parkside Cafe. The restaurant is just across from the beach and they serve great food including local mussels and incredible ricotta-spinach Gnocchi. It is worth the trip out to Stinson, just for Parkside, but you might as well take a look at the beach.
A Slice of SF
Slow Food Nation is an important event as it informs and help to educate us Americans about where our food comes from. That being said, there is something very satisfying about grabbing a nice piece of pizza to help re-boot a traveler’s weary soul. Check out the following places located throughout the city for a nice slice of the good stuff:
My favorite is Little Star Pizza with TWO locations in the city. One in the Mission District and the other is in Western Addition. With deep dish and thin crust options, everyone can get along. Try the thin crust "Pesto Chicken" or the deep dish Little Star complete with spinach, ricotta, feta, mushrooms, onions and garlic. If you are from Chicago, you will indeed feel at home.
Another good option for a pizza place is Zachary's Pizza in Oakland, Berkeley and San Ramon. This award worthy pizza place is often packed, so reservations are best. Any and every food guide book will send you to Zachary's. Trust the press and go.
If you came to San Francisco to try some California pizza (you did not fly into O'Hare now, did you...) head on down to Pauline's Pizza on Valencia Street. With an organic garden to provide toppings, vegan options, and eclectic toppings such as salted Meyer lemon puree, fennel or spiced pork shoulder, Pauline's Pizza is classically Californian.
North Beach (little Italy) is an obvious pizza hot-spot. For something besides classic Italian pizza, head to Liguria Bakery and order their Fococcia. They serve the soft, hot Italian bread in packages, tied up with strip. Any of the varieties are fantastic, but try the pizza, onion, raisin, or plain. They are all equally delicious and located on Stockton at Washington Square Park, outdoor seating is plentiful.
Get Away...and Sleep There!
With high hotel prices and a somewhat predictable experience, it is understandable to get tired and bored of the standard hotel options in San Francisco. But, San Francisco's proximity to beautiful wilderness allows visitors something a little new...and adventurous.
Mount Tamalpais and the Stinson Beach area offer sweeping views of the Pacific and the surrounding hills that make one feel millions of miles away from the city. If you enjoy these views and this rural experience as much as I do, stay the night! There are two outstanding (but rustic) cabins that ANYONE can rent for the night...or week if you choose.
The Historic West Point Inn is located on Mount Tamalpais and was built in 1904. You must hike to this cabin, but once there, it feels as though you have a little secluded home of your own. The cabin is rustic, as there is no electricity. But for a night or two, this secret cabin provides a experience you won't forget.
Steep Ravine is appropriately named, but at the bottom of the cliffs you will find a charming and rustic series of exclusive cabins. Once home to Photographer Dorothea Lange, the set of cabins have a rich history as a retreat and oasis away form the city. The cabins sit on the edge of the panoramic highway, over looking Stinson Beach. At low time, it is rumor that hot springs can be found below the houses. Be careful, however, the tide can be dangerous!