Reliving Wedding tranquility through my favorite corners of Presidio, San Francisco
a.k.a best hidden views of Golden Gate Bridge
As much as Indian weddings are an intentional chaos, I experienced a surreal tranquil state of mind during my wedding. A weightless state of calm that comes when you are utterly convinced that the universe is correctly aligned. For someone easily overstimulated by too much noise or even the wrong shade of red, the calm with which I moved through the rituals was unexpected. I registered every moment with clarity, nothing from those two days of celebration feels like a blur. Nothing passed me by- the speeches, the songs, the endless dancing. I could recount every moment to you. Even as I close my eyes, I can still feel everything exactly as I did in that moment. A rollercoaster of emotions, heavily rooted in peace, happiness and gratitude.
This state of mind has frequently seemed elusive, slipping through my grasp. As I think about dipping my toes back into it, I feel only a specific concoction of thoughts and feelings can bring it back. That concoction being a sense of pride in my journey, deep trust in myself and my people, and knowing (and feeling) that EACH person I had invited was there to selflessly celebrate our love.
Even as fleeting as this ‘calm’ is, there are days when I truly believe that I can access it, or some part of it. My favorite corner of the house, whose sunlight hours I’ve memorized by season; my usual desk in the library; that walk that I often resist, but always does me good; and the familiar Sacred Sunday playlist of old hits I play every Saturday morning, never bothering to rename.
Back home in San Francisco, walks through the serene Presidio serve as a cue, bringing me closer to that sense of calm. And I’m sharing these very favorite places within the Presidio in this month’s newsletter. The park is divided into two main sections-east and west, both offering stunning trails and vistas. Originally a military base, the Presidio is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It feels particularly fitting to feature this area this month, as it’s also where I was proposed to. Hehe.
In the western part of the Presidio, Baker beach is where I like to lay down on a blanket and watch people and ocean waves in equal proportion. However, my favorite sunset view is just a few steps away, on the way to Marshall Beach. For the view, you’ll need to descend part of the steep staircase off the Batteries to Bluffs Trail to reach the beach. From here, you can catch the perfect vista framing the Golden Gate with the Marin Headlands in the background. You’re almost always guaranteed to see geese flying overhead in their typical V-formation. Note, however, that this beach is more rugged and isolated, isolated enough for people to feel comfortable nude sunbathing. Do with that information what you will. While I do love the Golden Gate overlook, Marshall Beach offers a local alternative to the typical tourist viewpoint. And though I try to keep this newsletter concise, I can't help but gush about Immigration Overlook and Pacific Overlook, two nearby vantage points with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a sunset!
On the east side of the Presidio, the recommendations start strong with the Presidio Tunnel Tops. It is a public lawn offering some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge. For a convenient bite to eat, head to Il Parco. There are also picnic tables available on a first-come-first-served basis, offering seating for groups. While there are no grills, you can bring your own picnic food or grab something from the food trucks on Sundays.
Next on the list is Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line. Andy Goldsworthy is an artist with large-scale natural installations throughout the Presidio. One of his most iconic works is Wood Line-a curvy playful sculpture made of wood, winding through the towering eucalyptus forest. A walk from here to Tunnel Tops or Crissy Field (see below) is top-tier; lined with refurbished red brick military buildings, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers, with an approaching view of the Golden Gate that always gives me a heart-rush (is that a word? Should be.).
Crissy Field Beach: It’s my favorite spot to pitch a tent for the Blue Angels, but it’s equally delightful year-round (maybe not during fog season, though I’ve come to love the fog!). On a sunny day, it’s the perfect place to watch kite surfers while enjoying a book, and it’s also a popular spot for adorable pups. The walk from the beach to the Golden Gate visitor center has plenty of viewpoints along the way, making it a great solo artist date. My pitstop recommendations include Crissy Field Overlook along the Presidio Promenade for vistas of Alcatraz, the Bay, and the city skyline. Bonus points for charming spots like the Warming Hut Park Store and Torpedo Wharf along the way. On reaching the Golden Gate, Round House Coffee has good views. Food wise, nothing to write home about, but conveniently located for a morning coffee during an early walk or a decaf for an evening run with a friend. PS: The Crissy Field West Bluff picnic area is also an ideal area for picnics and barbecues.
I’m still taking my time exploring the Presidio, with no rush to see everything. On my list are endless trails, a game at the golf course, and the National Cemetery Overlook. If there’s a vista or path you think I should add, let me know!
PS: This newsletter could easily be titled ‘Unseen Angles of the Golden Gate Bridge’, and once you browse the photos, you’ll see exactly why.