Moderate coastal trails near San Francisco (uber accessible)

Question

Hello, I would like to walk an easy to moderate coastal trail near SF when I'm there later this week. Already have half a day to explore trails around Land's End / Ocean Beach. Have another day free to fill with a trail which I can access by Uber.

Are there closer coastal trails I can access with an Uber (or public transport- possibly even tougher to find) about 30 mins drive to and back from downtown San Francisco? Looking for good coastal views, decent paths (no scrambling on scree or rocks). inclines are fine. 12 to 18 km for a nice day out. Hence doesnt need to be circular, but would need to start and end at a spot where I have mobile network and can get an Uber to come out to.

I have walked in Muir Woods before (which I loved) but had to take a coach tour to get there since realised I wouldn't have mobile network to get an Uber back.

Thank you.

Answer

If you are looking for easy to moderate coastal trails within about a 30-minute drive from downtown San Francisco, there are several excellent options that offer scenic views without requiring scrambling over rocks or losing mobile signal. These trails are accessible by Uber or even some public transport.

Option 1: Marin Headlands Coastal Trails

The Marin Headlands just north of the Golden Gate Bridge offer a variety of coastal trails with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate, and the Bay. You can start at the Visitor Center parking lot or at Battery Spencer, which are both accessible by Uber.

Rodeo Beach to Point Bonita Lighthouse: Moderate 12–15 km out-and-back trail along the coast. Smooth paths and well-maintained trails. Inclines are gradual, with great views of the cliffs and ocean. Point Bonita Lighthouse has a short suspension bridge walk, which is scenic but safe.
Coastal Trail Loop from Rodeo Beach: This loop combines the Miwok Trail and Coastal Trail for approximately 14–16 km. Offers panoramic ocean vistas, wildlife viewing, and easy to moderate terrain.

Option 2: Fort Funston to Ocean Beach Loop

Fort Funston is a popular coastal area with gentle trails, sand dunes, and cliffs overlooking the ocean. Starting at the Fort Funston parking area (accessible by Uber), you can walk along the Coastal Trail heading north towards Ocean Beach and then loop back along some of the inland trails.

Distance: Approximately 12–15 km round-trip depending on your chosen route.
Highlights: Cliffside ocean views, hang gliders, dog-friendly paths, mostly packed dirt trails.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with some gentle inclines.

Option 3: Lands End Extension Trails

You mentioned already exploring Lands End and Ocean Beach, but you can extend this area further east and north along the Coastal Trail toward the Golden Gate Bridge or the Legion of Honor for a longer hike.

Distance: 12–18 km if you combine the Coastal Trail with the trails around Lincoln Park and the Legion of Honor.
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Pacific, Sutro Baths ruins, and coastal cliffs.
Accessibility: You can start and end near parking lots with mobile coverage, so Uber pick-up is easy.

Tips for a Comfortable Hike:

Check tide schedules if you are walking near the shore to ensure safety and the best views.
Wear layers as coastal weather can change quickly, even in summer.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan for a 12–18 km hike.
Most of these trails have mobile coverage near the parking areas and main trails, so you can reliably call an Uber back to San Francisco.

Overall, the Marin Headlands coastal trails offer the best combination of scenery, moderate difficulty, and accessibility for an Uber pickup. Fort Funston provides a slightly easier, dune-filled experience, while the extended Lands End trails give a longer, scenic city-coastal hybrid hike.

Moderate coastal trails near San Francisco (uber accessible)

More San Francisco Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions