Ocean Beach

The beach follows posted GGNRA access; City-managed parking lots close at 10 p.m. Seasonal fires must end by 9:30 p.m. and are prohibited November through February.

Lots and curb areas are spread along the shoreline and close at 10 p.m. Sunset Dunes changed vehicle circulation on the former Upper Great Highway, so route to the chosen stairwell.

Choose the north end near Kelly's Cove, central stairwells 15 to 20 for legal seasonal fire rings, or the Sloat Boulevard area for southern access.

Restroom coverage is limited and widely spaced. Identify an open facility near the chosen stairwell or adjacent developed area before settling on the beach.

Beach and promenade access are free. Parking, food, rentals, permits, and transit fares may cost.

Accessible routes connect selected parking areas to the promenade, and beach wheelchairs are available by request. Sand and dynamic shoreline conditions remain limiting.

Dog rules vary by season and zone. The snowy plover protection area south of stairwell 21 requires a leash no longer than six feet from July 1 through May 15.

The beach is excellent for walking, kites, and sand play, but the water is frigid with dangerous currents and no assumption of lifeguard protection.

Muni serves several east-west corridors ending near the beach. Sunset Dunes improves walking and cycling access but changes driving routes.

Do not treat Ocean Beach as a casual swimming beach. Check surf, tides, fog, wind, cold, air quality, and plover rules. Fires are only in provided rings March through October, with no glass or alcohol.

Check San Francisco's neighborhood forecast, wind, fog, rain, heat, air quality, tides or surf where relevant, and daylight. Coastal conditions can differ sharply from downtown.