This is an excellent spot to take photos of the city and GG bridge. There were so many people here, including at least one wedding party for photos. Everyone was so patient and nice about parking and taking turns. There was even a tailgate vendor selling hit dogs, tamales and drinks. My daughter was able to get the shot she wanted for a school project. read more

Battery Spencer - We felt safe with so many tourists and others - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

This overlook felt absolutely magical. The moment you arrive, you're greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of San Francisco and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stretching across the water. Seeing the city skyline in the distance with the bridge framed against the bay is something you truly have to experience in person. The way the light hits -- especially around sunset -- makes everything glow. It's peaceful, awe-inspiring, and the perfect place to just pause and take it all in. Whether you're visiting for the first time or you've lived nearby for years, this spot reminds you just how beautiful the Bay Area really is. It's one of those views that stays with you long after you leave. read more

One of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll need a car to get here, but there's plenty of free parking, and Battery Spencer is only a short walk from the parking area. It was windy this afternoon when we visited, but the day was bright and the sun was setting over the Pacific, so the photographs were very good! Bathrooms are available but they weren't clean, so keep that in mind. Happy to return. read more

Battery Spencer - View of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city beyond, from Battery Spencer. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

One of the closer viewpoint of Golden Gate bridge and San Francisco from the north. On clear day and proper sun light () the magical view will help your photography thirst. No matter what, spend sometime of your mundane life to satisfy your eyes and brain and lungs. Bring the lock yo clip on the fence if you join that trend. read more

Battery Spencer - Love locked fence - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

Absolutely gorgeous area to see the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy nature time. Over the decade I have been here with loved ones to enjoy some nature time and outing but never got to write a review until I am looking back at pictures. Parking can be hard but it's worth the drive It can be touristy read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

I've been living in San Francisco for three decades, and this marks my inaugural visit to Battery Spencer. The sight of the Golden Gate Bridge and the ocean is simply breathtaking! The weather is sunny but breezy. It was quite crowded on Saturday afternoon. Fortunately, there are ample parking spots available. People are parking along the right side of the road. I highly recommend this place. read more

Battery Spencer - 05/09/2026 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Battery Spencer is the crown jewel of Golden Gate Bridge views. The kind of view that makes you stop mid-sentence and just breathe it all in. From up here, the bridge feels close enough to touch, with the orange towers rising out of the Pacific mist like something straight out of a postcard. A short, breezy hike takes you to the lookout, where you'll also find love locks clipped to the fence. Each one a little story of someone's "forever," glittering in the salty breeze. It adds a surprisingly sweet and sentimental touch to this historic military site. Whether Karl blankets the bridge, sunrise paints the bridge in gold or sunset sets the whole bay on fire, Battery Spencer never disappoints. Free parking, epic photos, and the absolute best view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Battery Spencer deserves every bit of its legend. read more

Battery Spencer - Best view of the Golden Gate Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

This is an awe-inspiring spot with a spectacular view of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge with SF in the background. The actual parking lot is small & a lot of people park along the side of the one-way loop road for quite a distance leading up to it. We took our chances that people were snatching up what they could on the approach & found a spot just outside of the lot. From the lot, it's a small, gently inclined walk up a hill on uneven dirt to the viewpoint. Note--there are posted warnings about not leaving valuables in your car. Some old structures from its battery days are there to explore. A sign gives information about the Golden Gate & Marin Headlands Trails. There for romance? Leave a love lock on the chain link fence. Need some fresh air? The wind off the bay will give you a blast. Want to make a photo memory? It's a gorgeous picture perfect shot. It's amazing to simply take in an impressive view of the Golden Gate in all its majestic splendor. read more

See all

Amazing views, we were on our way to Hawk hill off Conzelman Road and stopped at the WWII bunkers and padlock fence with great golden date bridge views. From the golden gate visitor can walk under bridge to head to Conzelman road or can drive to it. We walked it from Sausalito as we took the Embarcadero ferry. Made it a day to hike to Hawk Hill. read more

See all

I've been coming here for the past 7 years and it seems to be more crowded than usual! It's definitely an amazing look out point that I would highly recommend seeing if you wanna be as close to the bridge as possible. There is a good amount of parking, but be prepared to bring thick layers because it can get windy and super cold! It's also FREE!!! There is a ton of other parts of history that you can see around the location! read more

See all

Amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Came here to see the bridge up close and had lunch. It was a super windy day but wasn't too cold. It is definitely a tourist spot. Parking is free :) read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

Breathtaking views, clean crisp air, beautiful hills, sea never-ending and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stands tall and proud amongst it all. Battery Spencer is a must when you come see the bridge; it is worth the trip to get on this side of town and enjoy the views which are spectacular from the top of the hill. A little walk and dusty but it is do-able. It was not as windy when I stopped by and I placed my own red lock on the gate as a memory of me visiting SF/ Battery Spencer. By far the best views to get insta worthy pics of the Golden Gate Bridge. read more

See all

Battery Spencer, a little drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, with views of SF across the bridge. Just a beautiful spot, especially at sunset and sunrise. Sunset can be hidden behind a small mountain if you're at the furthest point, so sunrise may be better, but, either way, just great views and atmosphere read more

See all

Absolutely Breathtaking!! One of Americas great historical pieces. I don't even know what to say other than "A must see for anyone". read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Looooved my time here with fam. I kept telling my sister the view is just as cool from the SF side but it only took 15 minutes to get here from across the bridge and I'll admit that the view is way cooler from here. We stopped at some of the other parking lot before we got here to take in the views and bikers, *whizzing* past on the other side. THEY ARE SO BRAVE?!. Parking lots are available every so often on the drive through the Marin headlands (gotta go to the top next time) so you can stop by a bunch of different points if you don't want to walk far or have someone with mobility issues. I saw a couple cool paths to take depending on what you wanna do. You can walk the well-kept trail directly off of the parking lot to go down near the campsite and water. Or, walk up a pretty path to the fence that overlooks the Golden Gate Bridge which has a lot of locks on it. So fun, didn't expect that! Huge area to hang out and sit down at near the bridge + a massive concrete structure to explore. Never did find out what that was! This area also has "restrooms" but bring your own hand sanitizer.. luckily my purse stays prepared lolol. You truly feel the scale of the Golden Gate Bridge from here, and it seems like a lot of people were doing photo shoots. Great place to get a new perspective of the city. read more

Battery Spencer - beautiful day to see the GGB (near top of Marin headlands, bit further up from Battery Spencer) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Awesome lookout point for the Golden Gate Bridge -- probably one of the best angles to snap pics with the full bridge in view. Super windy though -- a few times I legit felt like I was going to get blown off the walkway... and My husband nearly lost his hat The walk from parking is pretty short and manageable, even for older people or anyone who's not a fan of long walks lol. That said, parking is very limited and it's a one-way road, so it can get a little tricky to snag a spot. Bathrooms are there, but honestly smelled awful - use at your own risk. Definitely worth it for the photo op and iconic views! Just dress warm, go early, and maybe skip the bathroom. read more

Battery Spencer - View - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Whether you are the designated San Francisco tour guide or just happen to be visiting on a clear and sunny day, Battery Spencer is *the* best view point to see the picturesque Golden Gate Bridge with the city behind it. Having been here hundreds of times at this point, it still doesn't really get old and is consistently considered as one of the highlights of many people's visits to the Bay. When many people think of Golden Gate Bridge, this is the view they envision. On busy days, the parking situation can get interesting on the winding one way road so be patient. While this is just a short drive across the bridge, I would also recommend combining this with perhaps a quick visit to North Bay, whether it's Sausalito or Muir Woods. Overall, this is easily one of the more memorable and free (minus bridge toll) attractions on a clear day in SF. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

I've been wanting to come to Battery Spencer for a long time and FINALLY my kids humored me for my birthday. After dinner my son made the drive and I was so glad we got to experience it together. We parked towards the top and walked to where the locks were. Since it had rained earlier in the week there were lots of puddles. Thankfully, we used the flashlights on our phones to avoid stepping in the big puddles. All of us had never been and the views are breathtaking at night. Other people were there as well. I wish I could've taken more pictures. I shall be back during the day time :) read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Amazing views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. You take the 101 from San Francisco and you get off on Alexander Road. This will lead you through a tunnel that then turns into a one direction loop to get to Battery Spencer. If you drive all the way to the bottom you will have to loop around again. Once you start seeing parking available I would just park as the closer you get to the top the more congested it can get due to everyone trying to get this area. On a sunny day people will not leave promptly so park at the first spot that is available to you. Also if you are visiting and someone is waiting for parking, please be patient. We had an undesirable experience due to other drivers not taking into consideration that this is a tourist attraction so you may be stuck in a little traffic while others are parking. Be courteous and patient. The views are worth and if you have the time a hike down to Kirby Cove is an amazing experience. Tip: Always dress in layers. This area can get cold as others have described. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

Golden Gate Glory, Served Windy and Wow If the Golden Gate Bridge had a favorite selfie spot, it'd be Battery Spencer. My wife and I hit this cliffside legend just after morning rush hour and, folks, it was pure magic. The air? Crisp like a fresh baguette. The views? Unreal. That burnt-orange bridge stretches across the bay like it owns the place, and honestly, it does. You're standing nearly 500 feet above the water, with the whole bay winking up at you. Fog rolls in, the city peeks out, and Alcatraz sulks in the distance. It's part history lesson, part Instagram flex, and part romantic retreat. We wandered the old concrete gun battery, crumbled corners, rusted bolts, ghosts of generals past. You can feel the history tucked into the breeze. No food, no fees, no fluff. Just raw, breathtaking beauty. TLDR: * Showstopping views of the Golden Gate * Hauntingly cool historic military battery * Come early, wear layers, bring a camera * Pure California gold, fog and all Five stars and one goosebump. Go now. read more

Battery Spencer - The Golden Gate Bridge. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

One of the best views in the city. I loved visiting and taking this trail. It's a bit brisk but that can be expected being so close to the water. 100/10. read more

A lookout point area that is away from the hustle and bustle of the Golden Gate Bridge. After doing some research, I wanted to find a look out point where I can wee the Golden Gate Bridge at a higher elevation and was not disappointed. As my uber was making its way up the mountain, I couldn't help but notice how excluded the area was. We're talking about winding roads up with no humans/ housing in sight. I got a little scared of how I would make my way back down the mountain, but my uber driver reassured me that ubers do indeed do pick ups up the mountain or people usually just walk down the mountain themselves. I found out that there is actually a short cut where people walk down and it attaches to the Golden Gate Bridge - PHEW! Battery Spencer was an absolute beauty! It's less crowded and barely anyone up there, but still overlooked the Golden Gate Bridge and the city in the back. It's windy up there since you're at a higher elevation so make sure to wear some extra layers. Other than the viewpoints, there are the abandoned military buildings that were used during WWII that holds an abundance of history. It had a bit of an eerie feeling to it especially if you were exploring alone. There's public washrooms which are just a huge pit on the floor and no flushable toilets, but at least it's nice that there is something there if you need to go. After exploring the area, you'll notice a trail that leads you down the mountain, and goes straight into a parking lot. From there, you can go under the Golden Gate Bridge onto the other side, and continue exploring the actual bridge itself. Overall, a great viewpoint area if you want to be away from the touristy crowds. read more

See all

Tip: on July, mostly foggy. Can't see anything from above :( The parking is limited, but they will come out quick so just pull over and wait :) The view is actually amazing and the trail is short and easy. read more

See all

Best place to view the Golden Gate Bridge! It's so close & beautiful! The fog rolls beautifully over this area as well so you definitely have a great chance of getting a glimpse of the bridge! We came on a super foggy day and were still able to get nice photos :) read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

A perfect view spot to take pictures of the Golden Gate and overall view of San Francisco. This landmark is located past the Golden Gate Bridge but isn't too far. It's part of Marin Headlands, but just enter Battery Spencer on your maps. Once you get to the top, there is plenty of side street parking. It's usually windy, so bring a jacket and hand sanitizer if you use the bathroom here. The bathroom here is sketchy, and I do not recommend kids using it based on how there is a deep hole under it. Battery Spencer is good for pictures, and there is graffiti that could be considered "Instagram-worthy." This viewpoint is a must when visiting San Francisco! My girlfriend and I put a lock on the fence, too, for the mems :) read more

Battery Spencer - View - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

I spent a couple of years in S.F. a long time ago and saw the Golden Gate Bridge quite a few times then because I took several visiting friends there. During our recent visit to S.F., we decided to see it from a different angle at Battery Spencer. The three viewpoints allow one to see the bridge at different heights. We were fortunate that it was a clear and cool fall day, and the views were spectacular. Since I had not seen the bridge from other viewpoints lately, I cannot compare how good they are. But I think it's worth the 30 minutes of driving to view the bridge from Battery Spencer. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

We came here to get a good shot of the Golden Gate Bridge on a super foggy day. From the bridge level, you could not see anything so we debated making the 10 minute drive up there. We chose to try and it was worth it. You go through a one way tunnel on the way up and it is a one way loop that is counter clockwise, so if you miss it, you have to go all the way around. Once up there, we chose to park early so we didn't miss it and have to do the loop. There are only about 10 spots at the site itself and we had only a short walk to get there. It was a legal spot too, with many parked illegally past the spot. It is high up and we got some good shots of the bridge with little obstruction. There is room to spread out so others aren't in your picture. The fog added to our picture. read more

the hike to the top is not too hard, it just gets very windy. perfect view of the golden gate bridge and city read more

See all

I was so pleasantly SHOCKED by the vantage points that unfolded in front of us with each stop. The next one even more awe striking than the next!! read more

See all

Battery Spencer: A Scenic Gem with Breathtaking Views and Romantic Vibes Nestled in the Marin Headlands just north of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Battery Spencer is a historic military site turned picturesque overlook. As you ascend Conzelman Road, the anticipation builds, and trust me, the views are worth every twist and turn. The Views: From the top, you're greeted by an awe-inspiring panorama. The Golden Gate Bridge stretches majestically across the bay, its rusty red hue contrasting with the deep blue waters. San Francisco's skyline twinkles in the distance, and the Marin Headlands themselves unfold in rugged beauty. It's a scene that feels both timeless and utterly alive. First Date Magic: Battery Spencer is more than just a viewpoint; it's a canvas for romance. Imagine arriving with your date, the wind tousling your hair as you take in the breathtaking vista. The bridge acts as a silent witness to your connection, and the cityscape below seems to whisper secrets. It's a spot where conversations flow effortlessly, and stolen glances become memories etched in your hearts. The Wind: Ah, the wind! It dances around you, playfully tugging at scarves and jackets. It's a reminder that nature is in charge here, and you're merely a guest. Embrace it--the wind carries whispers of love stories past and promises of those yet to come. Unfortunate Trash: Now, let's address the less enchanting side. Occasionally, you'll spot a stray wrapper or plastic bottle. It's a shame, really. But remember, we can all do our part--pick up a piece of trash, and you're not just cleaning up the environment; you're preserving the magic of this place. Love Locks: And then there's the fence adorned with love locks. Couples from all walks of life have left their mark here. Each lock tells a story--a promise, a memory, a forever. It's a cute idea, isn't it? Imagine adding your own lock, sealing your love against the backdrop of the Golden Gate. Making Memories: Battery Spencer isn't just a spot; it's a memory forge. Whether it's your first date, a milestone anniversary, or a quiet moment alone, this place leaves an indelible mark. Snap photos, breathe in the salty air, and let the view etch itself into your soul. So, my fellow adventurers, visit Battery Spencer. Let the wind tousle your hair, gaze into each other's eyes, and create memories that will linger long after you've left. Location: Conzelman Rd, Sausalito, CA 94965 Phone: (415) 561-4700 read more

Great spot to take photos of the golden state bridge. It's up on a hill that has a nice scenic drive. There are a few stopping points along the road to snap photos. Parking is limited to a few spots and on the side along the one-way road. Don't use the bathrooms here though. They are stinky and dirty. read more

See all

If you want to check out some truly spectacular views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, you should make a point of visiting Battery Spenser in Sausalito. Even on a foggy day, a trip to here is totally worth it :-) Parking can be challenging, but perservere; there are actually multiple options including parking at the side of the one-way road that leads to the main lot, and the main lot itself. Once you reach the lot, it's just a short uphill hike from the road. Tip: This is the kind of place that you should make a point of bringing your camera to, then be sure to snap LOTS of pictures! Note that while cameras are encouraged, as this place is inside the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, drones are strictly verbotten Once you're at the vantage point, you'll be rewarded with some truly spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the city of SF. A final tip for serious shutter-bugs - take the Slacker Ridge trail up a short, steep hill. The trail can be reached by going a short way up the road near the restroom. Once you find the trail, go uphill about a quarter mile and you'll find yourself at the spot that professionals use to take Golden Gate Bridge photos read more

See all

Absolutely stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. Please be careful!! The winds are strong and the cliffs drop hundreds of feet to the water below read more

While doing my research for our San Francisco vacation itinerary, I came across Battery Spencer as being one of the locations w/ the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge and this info is correct. We came to Battery Spencer on 2 separate trips-08/17/2022 and on 08/20/2022. Since "sharing is caring" here are a few helpful tidbits for you... ~We visited during late August and one day there was so much fog, there were times we couldn't see the bridge at all BUT once the fog let up a little, we could see only the top of the bridge. I thought it was a great picture seeing the GGB covered in fog. The 2nd day we went up to Battery Spencer to see the GGB, there wasn't any fog so we had a clear view of the GGB but the wind was so strong & made it feel very cold! The wind literally would push you back. Just be careful as you're enjoying this spot so high up. ~Restroom: There was a restroom onsite but it was so disgusting that I might have given myself a UTI by holding in my pee! ;) ~Parking: While this is a very high tourist attraction, we didn't have any issues getting a parking spot & parking is free. Once all the parking spots are filled, people just parked along the street railing. ~Theft: There are lots of warning signs about not leaving any valuables in your car because of "smash & grabs" but on the days we visited, we didn't see any shady activity going on & there was a police car, parked in the beginning of Battery Spencer. Till next time! XOXO, Rebecca read more

Battery Spencer - Golden Gate Bridge on 08/20/2022 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

The views here are truly breathtaking. It's an awesome vista to look out on Sausalito, San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and--if you time it right--the sunset. Reader, we timed it right. We got here by walking from San Francisco across the bridge. Then, once we took stairs under the bridge to Battery Spencer Park. It took us a little while to find our way over, but was absolutely worth the wait, the walk, and the momentary confusion until we found some more experienced tourists to follow. read more

See all

Being a Bay Area gal all my life, this is one of the places to take family and friends to for landmarks to see the Golden Gate Bridge. Good thing it was a clear day I took pics here but it's not always. You just have to be lucky. Its a beautiful location to see the bridge or take a walk up the side trails for a little exercise. Its usually a windy cool day coming here so always bring a jacket just in case. Parking can be scarce especially on the weekend as there is limited parking spaces but this is definitely worth it to come at least once. I come often when I can just because I love seeing the beauty of it! :) [18R, 2023] read more

See all

So I got this new boyfriend and I'm trying to show him all around San Francisco (he lives in San Diego). So of course I take him to my "spot" to see the Golden Gate Bridge. We bring our sol food (see earlier review) up to the tippy top after miraculously finding parking in the lot, and enjoy what I believe to be the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It all gets better when an excited lil doggie on a leash jumps into my lap (see fig. 1). After lil doggie left, new boyfriend and I looked out into the water and saw this crazy current under the Golden Gate Bridge. What if someone fell in? What if it was the maintenance man? What if he's still swirling down there? Eventually, we have to keep pretending to be middle schoolers in love by getting very close to the edge and holding each other. I'm scared of heights but said new boyfriend doesn't make me get too close (a good sign). We finally escape the danger zone and scope out the bunkers to find that someone has tagged my name (see fig. 2). I promise I'm not that bad ass, it wasn't me. To conclude this silly love story, I really had to pee, but within walking 10 feet of the bathroom, I didn't think I could face the sheer stank. I think our maintenance man fell in and some say he's still swirling in the rip current. read more

Battery Spencer - (Fig.1) lil doggie - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

See all

When you think of San Francisco, what comes to mind first? For many, such as myself, I think of the Golden Gate Bridge. But where can you get a good view of this iconic landmark? At Battery Spencer, of course! I first came to this area in 2006, when I was on a road trip with an old buddy of mine from the military. We were intrigued at both the views of the bridge, as well as the remains of the old military fort that last saw service during World War 2. Fast forward the the 2020s, and I decided to bring my girlfriend to check out the spectacular view this place provides. Getting here involved navigating the narrow mountain roads just north of the bridge. Since we came here after our visit to Sonoma, we had an easy time getting here. We got lucky and found a parking spot, which is no easy task when you have dozens of card competing for limited spots near this place. The views were spectacular, and I was able to get plenty of good photos and videos. My girlfriend enjoyed the views, and this marked one of the more memorable times in 2022. If you're a photography enthusiast like me, or simply want to scratch the Golden Gate Bridge off your bucket list, then head on over to Battery Spencer. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

I've always wanted to come to Battery Spencer during the daytime but the traffic/exit to get there is insanely long every time we drive by. I spontaneously decided to come here at 10pm on a Saturday night. There was no traffic and we were able to get a parking spot. I saw a couple open spots in different lots so it's not that big of an issue this late at night. You do have to walk a bit to get there and it's pretty dark so be careful walking as there are lots of little rocks on the road up. The view is so beautiful at night with all the distant city lights in the background. It wasn't windy or super cold either so it was perfect. Highly recommend coming at night as it's super chill and not crowded. read more

Battery Spencer - GGB at night - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge!! It looks even grander in-person than it does in pictures. There was a LOT of traffic on the way up on a Saturday. If you don't get a spot on the way up, there's more parking on the side of the road on the way down. Your shoes will probably get dusty, so don't wear your new pair of shoes! It will be windier once you reach the viewpoint as well. read more

See all