Marin Headlands
Two uncrowded breaks tucked into the Marin Headlands
Rodeo Beach and Cronkite Beach sit inside the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in the Marin Headlands, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. They're two of the most scenic surf spots in the Bay Area — dramatic cliffs, no development, and often far fewer crowds than Ocean Beach.
Both beaches face into the Pacific and pick up a similar swell window to Ocean Beach, though they're slightly more sheltered from the strong northerly winds that can close out OB on summer afternoons. The waves are generally less powerful but can get very good on the right NW swell.
The colorful pebble beach at Rodeo is unlike anything else in the Bay Area — black, green, and red stones from the Marin Headlands geology. The paddle out can be tricky over the rocks, so time it with incoming waves. Once outside, the peaks can be fun and relatively forgiving compared to OB.
From San Francisco, take the Golden Gate Bridge north on US-101, then exit at Alexander Avenue. Follow signs into the Marin Headlands. For Cronkite Beach, head down Bunker Road to the coast. For Rodeo Beach, continue past the lagoon to the parking lot at the end of the road.
Note: The road into the headlands has limited access on weekends — arrive early or be prepared to park and walk. No services at the beach, so bring water and snacks.