The striking orange color of the Golden Gate Bridge stands out against the deep blue sky and sea. Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, which connects San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean, this bridge is considered one of the city's top attractions. Living up to its reputation as "the most beautiful bridge in the world," it remains a must-see landmark in San Francisco. Whether enveloped in morning fog or illuminated against the night sky, the bridge offers breathtaking views throughout the day. In this article, we will explore the history, highlights, and best ways to enjoy the Golden Gate Bridge, along with useful travel information.
The history of the Golden Gate Bridge
In the early 20th century, following the Gold Rush, San Francisco’s population surpassed one million, rapidly transforming it into a major city. However, reaching Northern California across the bay required either taking a ferry or making a long detour by land. As a result, there was a growing demand for the construction of a new roadway.
By the 1930s, a vote among residents of six surrounding counties approved the construction of a bridge over the Golden Gate Strait. However, securing funds proved challenging due to the Great Depression, and three years had already passed from the time of approval before actual construction began.
The long-awaited suspension bridge was finally completed in 1937, four years after construction began. On May 27, the opening day, an estimated 200,000 people—nearly half of San Francisco’s population at the time—crossed the bridge on foot.
By the way, don’t be misled into thinking that the name "Golden Gate Bridge" comes from its color. The bridge was actually named after the Golden Gate Strait that flows beneath it.
Name: Golden Gate Bridge
Address: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA, USA
Official Website: https://www.goldengate.org/
Stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge while enjoying the ocean breeze
If you visit the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day, walking across it is highly recommended. The fresh ocean breeze will leave you feeling invigorated, and the stunning panoramic views from the bridge make it a photographer’s paradise.
However, please note that roller skates, skateboards, and pets are not allowed on the bridge.
If you plan to take a bus for part of your journey, the Golden Gate Transit system connects San Francisco with Marin County on the other side of the bridge.
The nearest bus stops are Golden Gate Bridge/Toll Plaza on the San Francisco side and Alexander Avenue on the Marin County side.
Bus number 30, which passes through Sausalito, stops at both locations. Additionally, if you’re visiting on weekends or holidays, the Muni Bus Route 76X is another convenient option.
Name: Golden Gate Transit
Official Website: https://www.goldengate.org/
Name: San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA)
Official Website: https://www.sfmta.com/
Rent a bike and explore the Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco is known for its hilly terrain, but with an electric bike, even steep roads can be navigated with ease. Why not enjoy a scenic ride across the Golden Gate Bridge while feeling the sun and the fresh breeze?
The bridge has a dedicated bike lane, allowing cyclists to cross safely without worrying about cars or pedestrians. Plus, you can even take your bike on the ferry, giving you the flexibility to plan your ideal sightseeing route.
There are plenty of bike rental shops around Fisherman’s Wharf and the northern waterfront.
One well-known company, Bay City Bike, operates multiple locations in the area and offers guided cycling tours. Feel free to stop by and start your adventure!
Name: Bay City Bike
Address: 501 Bay Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA (and other locations)
Official Website: https://baycitybike.com/
See the Golden Gate Bridge from below on a scenic cruise
One of the unique experiences San Francisco offers is the chance to admire the Golden Gate Bridge from below.
In addition to sightseeing boats, visitors can also board yachts with large sails, and there are a variety of cruise options, including dinner cruises, live music cruises, and sunset cruises.
A particularly recommended option is the cruise that not only takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge but also circles around Alcatraz Island, one of San Francisco’s most famous attractions. Audio guides are available in many language, making it an easy and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Name: Red & White Fleet
Address: 43 1/2, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
Official Website: https://redandwhite.com/
The best viewpoints to admire the Golden Gate Bridge
◆ Vista Point
Located on the Marin County side, Vista Point offers a panoramic view of both the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. Since the afternoon sun creates a strong backlight, it’s best to visit in the morning if you want to take clear photos. If you go early in the morning, you might even witness the bridge covered in a mystical fog.
Vista Point is about a 15-minute walk from the nearest bus stop, Alexander Avenue. Since it’s a bit difficult to access and has no facilities other than public restrooms, make sure to prepare accordingly before visiting.
Name: Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
Address: US-101, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
◆ Battery Spencer
Many of the most famous photos of the Golden Gate Bridge are taken from Battery Spencer. Located on the opposite side of the bridge from Vista Point, it’s worth visiting both spots for different perspectives.
Since Battery Spencer is situated on a hill, it offers stunning views of the bridge at any time of the day. However, the best time to visit is around sunset and into the evening, when the sky gradually changes color, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your photos.
Name: Battery Spencer
Address: Conzelman Road, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
◆ Fort Point
Located on the San Francisco side, Fort Point is a historic military fort that once served as a coastal defense site. It sits right at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, allowing visitors to admire the bridge from an up-close and dramatic perspective.
Since the fort is right by the ocean, it can get very chilly when the sea breeze picks up, but it’s an iconic San Francisco landmark that’s definitely worth a visit.
Name: Fort Point National Historic Site
Address: Long Ave & Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
How to get to the Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco has a well-developed public transportation system, so you can choose from buses, cable cars, trains, taxis, rental cars, or even rental bikes, depending on your needs and travel style.
However, keep in mind that buses and cable cars can be extremely crowded during rush hours. Additionally, San Francisco does not have many traditional street taxis, so you may need to use a ride-sharing service like Uber or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you.
◆ By Bus
The two nearest bus stops to the Golden Gate Bridge are "Golden Gate Bridge/Toll Plaza" and "Golden Gate Bridge/Parking Lot."
If you’re taking the Muni Bus (San Francisco’s city bus system), board Route 28 and get off at the Parking Lot stop. If you’re using Golden Gate Transit, more than 10 different bus routes stop at Toll Plaza, making it a convenient option.
◎When is the best time to visit the Golden Gate Bridge?
While the Golden Gate Bridge looks stunning on a clear day, its fog-covered appearance has a unique, mystical charm as well.
San Francisco is famously known as the "City of Fog," but the mist isn’t present year-round. It is most commonly seen in the early mornings and evenings during summer. If you time your visit right, you might witness the bridge’s vibrant International Orange color emerging from the mist—a truly magical sight. And of course, don’t miss the night view of the bridge, beautifully illuminated against the dark sky!