IndoSole's guide to San Francisco
15th November 2011
San Francisco has to be one of the hippest places in the world, with thriving arts, culture and music scenes. Its also situated in a fantastic place geographically, giving a whole range of adventure sport opportunities. Jeremy, from IndoSole gives us his top tips for making the most of San Francisco!
Why San Francisco?
There is a unique attraction of having exposure to facets in both beach and
urban culture. The ideology in San Francisco has always been to promote self-
expression thus the result is an eclectic population that inspires each other with
individuality while fuelling energy for creativity. Then, include the desirability of
San Francisco’s proximity to the outdoors; one can travel 40 miles either north
or south and be surrounded by California’s novel landscape. The options are
endless for outdoor enthusiasts with accessibility to hiking, mountain biking,
bouldering / climbing, kite surfing, road cycling. Lastly, the weather does not
fluctuate much with an average temperature ranging from the mid 50s – high 70s
(Fahrenheit) so it is conducive for any outdoor activity.
Favourite spot for surf in San Francisco?
Ocean Beach may be the most temperamental surf break on the California
coastline; however, when all the necessary elements align, this sand bar stretch
could leave you with memorable tube rides. Shifting A-frame peaks through the
outside bar is the set-up for the 3-mile beach. It might be imperative to mention
that surfing Ocean Beach is not for those who are inexperienced. Frequent rip
currents along with the countless duck dive paddles can test your true fitness and
mental game. Nevertheless, these brutal conditions free up the lineup so no need
to worry about others dropping in on your stoke.
For those that may need a mellow surf alternative, there are a handful of spots
nearby San Francisco. See below:
“The Hook” 41st St. & Cowells – Santa Cruz, CA
Linda Mar Beach – Pacifica, CA
“The Patch” – Bolinas, CA
Favourite places to grab some food and drink in San Francisco?
Endless options since we are talking about San Francisco; however, I will keep
my recommendations based on the surf experience and IndoSole’s local hangout
joints.
Outerlands:
4001 Judah
San Francisco, CA 94122
For the true first time experience, it is preferred to walk into this establishment
blindfolded. Do not seek for descriptions, skip the online reviews and ignore
their web page. Located four blocks up from Ocean Beach, this is your post-surf
eatery. After swimming around in the cold Pacific Ocean, treat yourself to any one of the sandwiches since the house made bread is food critic renown. Order
the grilled cheese soup combo and embrace the warmth, originality of this sea
wanderer’s haven.
ZA’s Pizza:
This is our Pizza joint in the city. Located on the steep incline of Hyde St, Za’s
has the ideal San Francisco vibe for filling up your belly. I recommend walking
from the flats of Market St. and walking up Hyde St to build up an appetite. This
sidewalk adventure will definitely show the contrast of neighborhoods. Sit outside
under the shady trees and listen to the nearby cable car bells. The service has
a little Brooklyn attitude so come in with witty behavior. The pizza is a thin crust
delight.
Hemlock
This is our favorite place to grab beers and see cheap live music. The selection
of music ranges, but there is always an influence of punk, folk, psychedelic, noise
rock etc. Many San Francisco based bands perform here so one can get an idea
of San Francisco’s gritty garage rock scene.
What’s the best time of year to come to San Francisco?
Absolutely, without a doubt, September – mid November is the best time to visit
San Francisco. Despite the high period NW ground swell and the offshore winds,
San Francisco, as a city, is alive. The residents of SF endure the deceiving
summer months that bring wind, fog and the year’s coolest temperatures. There
are many great festivals that occur during the fall season so do some research
and plan around them. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival, is by far
an IndoSole favorite.
Top locals tips
Always have a layer of clothes with you since the weather can switch in a matter
of minutes or city districts. I recommend a light, breathable shell jacket.
Getting there
Fly into SFO International or Oakland Airport. The domestic fares can be cheaper
flying into Oakland and BART, the Bay Area train, has a route into SF. If you are
travelling from Southern California, rent a car and take the Highway 1 route. It will
take a few days, but the California coastline will surly impress you.
Getting around
Don’t be a dummy….rent a bike. Pick up a bike lane map and a public
transportation map that will include all the bus and train lines for SF.
Things to bring
An open mind
Safety issues
Like any other urban city, use your street smarts.
Places to avoid/not to miss
Avoid Fishermans Wharf and Union Square.
Check out Land Ends, Golden Gate Park and Marin County (across the
Golden Gate Bridge)
Why not join the sun tanned local Californians with an awesome adventure holiday? You could even visit Yosemite National Park (news picture), close to San Francisco...
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