A Two-Hour Hike Around Land’s End
This section of the coast is
amazingly wild, especially considering that it is actually within the
city limits. Note that portions of the hike are very rugged, so dress
accordingly, with good footwear.
Begin at the far end of the Merrie Way parking lot and take the steps down. Follow the trail that passes by the
Sutro Baths
ruins, to your left as you descend. Continue on along to the Overlook, from which you can take in Seal Rocks and much of the Pacific panorama.
Now double back a bit to pick up
the trail that continues along the coast. You will see the remains of
concrete military bunkers, which have been broken and tilted by the
unstable land, and now decorated with graffiti. Soon you come to a beach
below rocky cliffs; note that the surging water is very unpredictable
here, so be very attentive. Continue walking and you will arrive at
Land’s End Cove, where a makeshift beach, using rock walls as
windbreakers, is popular with nudists.
Next, climb up one of the sets
of wooden steps to join the path up above and continue on around the
bend, where you will be greeted with a stunning view of the
Golden Gate Bridge
. Keep going all the way to Eagle’s Point and return by way of the higher trail that winds through Lincoln Park .
For a meal after your hike visit
Cliff House
.
Shops
Troika With
the atmosphere of a pawnshop and the thick sound of Russian being
spoken, this shop reflects the émigré neighborhood in which it’s
located. All sorts of collectibles and gift ideas, mostly of Russian
origin. 6300 Geary Blvd 415 387 4345
Old Stuff One
of several antiques shops along this strip of Clement, this one has
everything, from furniture to jewelry, to lamps, to glass and china. 2325 Clement St 415 668 2220
Gaslight & Shadows Antiques The
specialty here is porcelain, specifically the precious, delicate
masterpieces turned out by the various makers in the town of Limoges,
France. It’s like visiting a museum dedicated to this fine artform.
Dolls, costume jewelry, and Oriental rugs, too. 2335 Clement St 415 387 0633
The Garden Spot Besides some very fine chests, chairs, bureaus, and the like, treasures of all sorts are tucked away here. 3029 Clement St 415 751 8190
Aqua Surf Shop Every sort of surf gear, including the extra-thick wetsuits needed to survive these northern waters.
Aqua Surf Shop
Stonestown Galleria Upmarket
Nordstrom and all-purpose Macy’s are the anchor stores to this
traditional indoor-outdoor shopping center. It isn’t much different from
shopping centers all over America, but you might find prices cheaper
here than elsewhere. 19th Ave & Winston Drive 415 759 2626
Borders Books & Music This chain bookstore offers a good selection of the latest titles, some excellent bargain choices, and a snack bar. 233 Winston Drive 415 731 0665
Williams-Sonoma The
renowned kitchen, cookware, and serving-ware dealer originated in
Northern California. Products from around the world, chosen for
functionality and beauty.
Williams-Sonoma
Ann Taylor Simplicity
and comfortable fit are the keynotes of the women’s clothing designed
by Ann Taylor. Elegant suits, luxurious silk sweaters, linen casuals, or
sporty khakis. Bailey Banks & Biddle The finest gems are set off by elegant designs created by this jeweler, in business since 1832. They also have Lladró figurines.
Places to Eat
Cliff House Standard
American fare, but the real reason to come here is to see the Pacific
crashing on the cliffs below and to witness the wonderful sunsets (see Cliff House). 1090 Point Lobos Ave 415 386 3330 Dis. access
$$
Beach Chalet Brewery Again, you come for the view, both outside, of the ocean, and inside, of the murals. The food is not much to write home about. 1000 Great Hwy 415 386 8439 Dis. access
Beach Chalet Brewery
Louis’ Diner food with wonderful views of Seal Rock and Land’s End. Every American favorite you can name. 902 Point Lobos Ave 415 387 6330 Dis. access
Ton Kiang Many say this place has the best dim sum in the city. Always fresh, hot, and tasty, with various specialties. 5821 Geary Blvd 415 387 8273 Dis. access
Chapeau! Perhaps
the most authentic French bistro, run by a talented husband and wife
team. He’s the sommelier and knows how to assign the treasures from his
list. Service is refined, and every bite memorable. Kabuto Sushi A great Japanese restaurant – the sashimi melts in the mouth. Pizzetta 211 Thin and crisp pizza topped with organic ingredients. 211 23rd Ave 415 379 9880 Closed Mon L & Tue No credit cards Dis. access
Q Restaurant Friendly staff serve huge portions of comfort food at this local favorite. 225 Clement St 415 752 2298 Dis. access
Java Beach Café This cozy café serves sandwiches, soup, and pastries in a nautical-themed interior. 1396 La Playa St 415 665 5282
Burma Superstar A Burmese eatery with an extensive menu. Don’t miss the tea leaf salad. 309 Clement St 415 387 2147 Dis. access
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