• View of the Golden Gate Bridge, taken from the Marin Headlands, looking across the bay back towards San Francisco, seen in the distance.

    Golden Gate

    National Recreation Area California

There are park alerts in effect.
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  • Tunnel to Marin Headlands Closed

    The tunnel on Bunker Road from Alexander Avenue in Sausalito towards the Marin Headlands is closed for construction. Please follow the detour signs to Conzelman Road (just above the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge) to go up over the hill. More »

  • Muir Beach (but not nearby Muir Woods) parking lot closed June-November 2013

    Muir Beach parking lot will be closed from June-November 2013 due to construction. Restrooms or nearby parking will not be available at Muir Beach during this period. Pacific Way is closed except to residents. Check back for updates or call (415)561-3054 More »

  • CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail

    The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »

Kirby Cove

Kiby Cove facing east with panoramic view of San Francisco & Bay
 

Descend through a grove of cypress, eucalyptus and pine to a one of a kind view of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay looking east to a panorama view of the city

The steep, mile-long trail to the cove begins at the parking area above Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road-eye-level with the bridge's towers.Kirby Cove also features a campground with four campsites, each accommodating up to 10 people (parking restricted to three vehicles per site). Pit toilets, barbecue pits, picnic tables, and fire rings are available, but there's no water for drinking and hygiene.
For more details and to make required reservations, please visit the National Park Service website or call (415) 331-1540.

Tips and Highlights

  • Although campsites are available by reservation only, the public is invited to walk the trail and picnic on the beach or bluffs.
  • Walk in your own water, and plan on an uphill walk back up from the cove.
  • Make reservations for campsites well in advance.
  • Scan the skies in autumn for migrating hawks, kestrels, harriers, falcons, and other raptors.
  • The waves are usually gentle on this beach, but there is no lifeguard.
  • Explore Battery Kirby (1898-1934) by the cove's beach.
  • Kirby Cove presents challenges to visitors with disabilities. Arrangements can be made in advance to allow vehicle access to the picnic site for disabled guests with a valid DMV placard; call (415) 331-1540.


  • Find out easy information on how to access any of the park's trails by walking, biking, car, and/or bus. Read More

  • Visit Point Bonita Lighthouse Visit Point Bonita Lighthouse

    Find out more about visiting Point Bonita Lighthouse and learn what other opportunities are available through the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, partner of the GGNRA. Read More

  • Ohlones and Coast Miwoks Ohlones and Coast Miwoks

    Learn about the Native Americans who lived in the San Francisco Bay region. Read More

  • More Info on the Marin Headlands More Info on the Marin Headlands

    Find out more about visiting the Marin Headlands through the Parks Conservancy, partner of the GGNRA. Read More

Did You Know?

Red Power painted on an Alcatraz building.

In November of 1969 American Indians being relocated and terminated by the U.S. government occupied the then vacant island of Alcatraz. Their 18 month occupation would bring an end to the federal termination policy, saving the tribes.