10 Hidden Gems of the San Francisco Bay Area
Forget the long lines for the cable cars and crappy over-priced clam chowder served in stale bread. Here are 10 places to hit up in and around San Francisco where you won't feel like a tourist.
Oysters never taste better than when they're fresh and this place serves them up straight out of the water. There's a picnic area with BBQs right on the beach where you can grill your oysters if you prefer them cooked.
Despite it's name you won't find many tourists here. Even a lot of people who grow up in the local area don't know about this spot. Located on the side of Mt Tam in Marin County the Tourist Club is a German style lodge that serves up cold beer and bar snacks most weekends. There are several trails of varying length you can take to get there, from a pleasant 20 minute stroll to a several hour hike from the base of the mountain in Mill Valley.
3. The Ramp
A popular spot for weekend brunch and lunch The Ramp is tucked away next to a quiet boat ramp right on the bay. The food isn't the best you'll find but the outdoor deck more than makes up for this shortfall.
4. NightLife at California Academy of Sciences
Over-run by screaming school kids during the day, this museum transforms itself into something resembling a nightclub with music and several bars each Thursday night.
5. The Fillmore
The most iconic live music venue in San Francisco, The FIllmore has been around since the hippy days and it's walls are full of posters from past gigs.
This small and sometimes cramped club is guaranteed to be pumping any night of the week. Drinks are reasonably priced and the photo booth provides entertainment for anyone who tires of the dance floor. Get in early enough and you might be able to get a manicure too!
Located in The Mission above Elements Hotel this is a great spot to grab a glass of sangria and watch the sun set over the city.
With guest chefs each week the menu is ever changing. A bonus is the proceeds are donated to charity so you can fill up your tummies at the same time you fill up on goodwill.
There's no need to drive hours into the mountains to go camping. Just a short ferry ride from the city Angel Island has some great campsites and amazing panoramic views of the city and bay.
10. Half Moon Bay
A short drive south down the famous '1' is Half Moon Bay. It's claim to fame is Mavericks, the legendary big wave spot. Head here in winter when the huge swells hit and you might see the world's best big wave surfers compete in the Mavericks Surf Contest. The town is also home to the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company which is a great place to grab lunch and a local brew.
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