Kirby cove is a must-visit, easy hike just across the Golden Gate Bridge. Park at the Battery Ridge area in Marin. then you can hike out too the Battery Spencer viewpoint, then over to the Golden Gate bridge; there is an underpass so that you can reach the East viewpoint. Then you can hike down to Kirby Beach. Go during the week, and try to arrive before noon for good parking. read more

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Kirby Cove is one of those hidden gems that feels like a true escape even though it's right next to the Golden Gate Bridge. The views are absolutely stunning--especially at sunset--and the beach feels peaceful and uncrowded compared to most spots in the city. The walk down is manageable but be ready for a bit of a climb on the way back up. If you're looking for a scenic, low-key place to relax or take photos, this is hard to beat. read more

Got married here. Fav beach. Didn't know it was a nude beach till the wedding day lol great for picnics, best view. Never busy. Water is cold. Apparently they dump ashes here AND that it's a breeding ground for great whites. I won't swim but I will enjoy the scenery lol read more

Kirby Cove - Such a chill spot. As a local I'll say it's a local spot lol - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

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Kirby Cove is beautiful and relaxing to sit at the beach. I've only hiked down here but there is camping as well. The hike isn't too strenuous but there is an incline so it's not super easy for some people and can creep up on you if it's a hot day. Overall it's about a 3.5 mile hike. It's best to park at the parking lot where you can access walking on the bridge. From here you'd take the trail (Googlemaps calls it SCA trail, All Trails calls it the Coast Trail) up to Conzelman Road. It's worth it to check out Battery Spencer which you'll pass anyway. This is where you'd get the typical tourist postcard views of the San Francisco and the Golden Gate bridge. Don't be surprised if it's really foggy and you can't see anything. That can happen sometimes. read more

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What a cool location! Beware the colony of raccoons who are anxious to invite themselves to your meals and snacks. Pit toilet, but at least there's a toilet. Some huge entity like Google or FB was having a party/glamping event right down the way from our site so that changed the dynamic a little. Kirby Cove spots are pretty hard to come by so felt lucky, but next time for all the set up I would like to stay at least two nights. Of course it's GORGEOUS there. read more

Kirby Cove had been on our list to hike for several years, finally did it and it was worth it. It's a pretty easy hike if you're generally active and in semi decent shape. Round trip with a little time at the beach was 1.15 hours. Parking is easy, plenty along the highway and right along the trail. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow. There is a sign that states no dogs, but we did see quite a few. There was also a healthy coyote right next to the trail under a big tree just watching hikers. Appeared to be calm and quiet. Restrooms are located towards the bottom by the campgrounds that are only open seasonally. For those looking for the swing along the shoreline, sadly, it's not there. I love a hidden swing and was disappointed to see a bare tree. The beach below is pretty and a nice place for a picnic, and definitely not crowded. Definitely visit Battery Spencer overlook before you leave, it's just up a few hundred feet from the trailhead and worth it. Happy hiking and enjoy! read more

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Kirby Cove is a really special spot to visit in Marin County Sausalito if you like exploring Marin County and Northern California. This spot has amazing views of Golden Gate Bridge. You can come here for the day. It's an awesome camping spot. My organizer said he got the pass from Craigslist. There are toilets that don't flush and no sinks or showers(no running water). I brought two big bottles of water for cooking and cleaning. There are so called "raccoons" that come here looking for food and spot anything that smells including toothpaste. I didn't heed the warning overnight and some raccoons found an old toothbrush and went through a bag. It just gets messy so don't forget about hiding anything that smells. The campsite is nice and spacious. We had 5 people and 4 tents. We had a hammock hanging. The beach is a 5-10 minute walk away and has nice views. There's a secret cave, tunnel, and there was a swing. There's no real hiking trails nearby. The battery is fun to explore too. Really neat spot if you like adventures like this. Be careful at night and be careful. Somebody on our trip broke their arm slipping. read more

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A little slice of nature sandwiched between metropolitan city and bustling streets! I never knew of this place even though I've lived here for the past three decades. That was until my friend invited me to go camping! It's open for day use, but the campsites themselves have to be booked three months advance on Recreation.gov(We use the App!). The campsites can be hard to get, but it is understandable as to why! Getting here can be quite an ordeal particularly in weekends. The roadway get congested, as it's a hotspot for tourists! That means a lot of cars stopping and slowing on the one way road to take pictures and wait for parking spots. So make sure you start venturing here early to check in at 1PM! Once you turn onto the oh so exclusive Kirby road, it's smooth sailing(if you can get the gate lock off!). It's all dirt road going down, but my Honda civic made it just fine. The walk to the campsites isn't far, but a wagon is useful. We camped at site 3! Our thoughts on Camp site 3: - Spacious, and hade 4 different platforms for tents! Would be great for big groups. - Nice open area, so don't expect any shade for this camp site. - closest to the parking lot - farthest from the beach, but appreciated when we were met by gusty strong winds. About the wind: - We camped here memorial weekend and while the weather was pleasant, it grew foggy quite often. The real bugger was the wind intensity. The way the campground is positioned, the wind just hits it dead on. Sent our camp Chairs flying and flattened our tents a few times. Be careful, bring enough tent stakes, and make sure you secure all your items! We were also woken up a few times at night when the gust of wind would come through and flatten our tents. If we came back to camp again, we would opt for campsites 1 or campsite 4 as you will have more wind break. * Also, no water at the campgrounds so make sure you bring enough to drink and wash dishes. read more

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Kirby Cove is such a hidden gem! Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, this hidden spot offers breathtaking views of the bridge, SF skyline, and the bay. Its a short hike, little steep but totally worth it honestly! You will find a peaceful beach, fresh ocean air, and a great Instagram worthy spots. Its great for picnic, hiking or even camping. Make sure to wear good shoes, bring layers (can get bit chilly) and go early for the best views and experience. read more

As Madonna once profoundly said, "Beauty's where you find it, not just where you bump and grind it." Excuse me while I vogue. It's funny how the pandemic has opened up places I totally ignored back when I took travel for granted. This is a prime example of a hidden place that would've never made my radar had I not ventured to Battery Spencer for the spectacular view. It's a lot easier nowadays to park here due to the smart decision to make Conzelman Road a one-way route. That was when I noticed there was a paved road hindered by a gate. It went down the hill to parts unknown, but very few tourists gawking at the Golden Gate Bridge bothered to go down and find out. I decided to take a chance and was rewarded for my arguably adventurous spirit. First, there was a leisurely bucolic 1-1/2-mile walk nestled against the bluffs that led to an isolated beach. Even though the weather was quite pleasant, I was surprised only a handful of people had made it down here. The low-key vibe and lapping water made it a more becalming spot to look at the bridge than Battery Spencer, and there's even a campground if you want to stay overnight. I've heard about the swing they used to have hanging from one of the trees, but there was no sign of it anymore. The nondescript Battery Kirby is next to the beach, and the more graffiti-saturated Battery Wagner is just off the path and offers another nice view of the bridge. Take the time to go down to the cove. Totally worth it. Now go vogue. RELATED - Traveling north of San Francisco? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2tIHlkV read more

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A lot of people go to Kirby Cove to get that Instagram shot of the swing. Not me....well since that swing is also often taken down when I go here. Originally, Kirby Cove was called "Gravelly Beach Battery" due to the gravelly beach that the battery was built on. When it was renamed after Lieutenant Edmund Kirby, a 1st U.S. Artillery during the Civil War, the surrounding campground and valley eventually took on his name. Now it's a campsite for day-use, picnic area and my favorite outdoor activity - hiking. To get here, you really gotta hike one mile to get to the bottom and the path here is one of the more scenic and picturesque in the Bay Area. But then again, I say that to every spot I hike at. However, with the Golden Gate Bridge so prominent as the backdrop, you can take a shot from different angles. The hike itself is pretty easy as it's all downhill, but coming back up is uphill with a gradual easy slope. Once you get to the campground below, you're greeted with Eucalyptus, Pine and Monterey Cypress Trees. Originally, this was not the case as very few trees grew in this wind-swept valley. The non-native trees were planted over the years as it was developed into a park under the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It creates a bristling and creaking sounds as the wind passes through the valley. On an early morning hike earlier this year, I was here solo and didn't see another person until later in the day. While I was down in the valley exploring the campground underneath the trees, there was a sound that would keep going on and off and it scared the heck out of me as I tried to figure out where it was coming from. My imagination ran wild as the sound kept going until I realized it was my phone ringing in my pouch. Dagnabit, I just scared myself silly for no reason at all. But since I was the only human there at that time, I let my fears get the best of me...but got a good chuckle out of it. You can spend some time exploring the valley and there's also the battery which it is named after. The beach is a serene and quiet area compared to the south side across the bay. It's quite a contrast, and a relaxing place to get away without venturing out too far. #YelpChallenge2020 review No. 85 read more

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This is my favorite hike in the area and for good reason, the views from the beach are incredible! It is an easy 1.5 mile hike in (down) but the hike back up will be a bit of a slog, due to it being all uphill. There is a campground and a day use area just before the beach that I plan to utilize some day soon. Just prior to arriving at the beach you can explore the ruins of an old military fort. Then there's the beach itself. No words or pictures could do this place justice. It truly is special. There used to be a swing down there but Rangers decided to not only take it down, but cut the tree it was attached to down as well. Maybe someone got hurt? Don't know. Towards the far side of the bridge end of the beach, if the tide's low enough, you'll be able to check out a little "cave" cut into the rock. Don't attempt it if you cannot walk on the sand with water at your feet, though. It's too dangerous otherwise. read more

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This was a fun hike with beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city. It's fairly easy trail and with the trip. It takes you down to the beach. It's definitely family friendly. I saw a lot of young kids on this hike. Definitely worth checking out! read more

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I had been trying to get a spot here for years. Then...one magical morning a little blue A popped up. A as in, available. Site #1. I booked it and rubbed my eyes to make sure it wasn't a dream. The night before, reservation, anticipation, and nervous excitement consumed me. Would Kirby be as magical as it seemed? Would the windy cliff side drive down to camp terrify me? After a side trek through a tunnel because it's now a one way road, you are greeted by the beautiful and infamous Golden Gate. You feel super elite when you get out & use your code to open the gate & get your vehicle inside. The drive down is a bit windy and steep but it is maintained very well. My Altima had zero issues navigating it. We parked, grabbed a couple of the provided wheelbarrows and brought our stuff over to the best camping site in the world. Site 1 is furthest from parking and it's a pretty good trek. There is a handicap loop around the other sites. Hanging out in the beach, going to sleep under the soft glow of the lit up Golden Gate and exploring battery Kirby make this place phenomenal. It's like having a multi-million view, for $30 a night. There are actual tent pads in the 5 camping areas. Just pit toilets and it's hike in only, no RVs or sleeping in cars. As long as it's not a spare the air day, you are free to build a fire in the fire pit. You need to bring all of the water you will require. It got pretty windy and a little cold at times in August but really, nothing could dampen my spirits here. The only, only downside is that we had quite a few groups wander into our site & ask how to get down to the beach..and the stupid swing. It's 100% gone and there isn't even an area to hang it from now, so don't ask. You might want to bring your own beach access area sign & place it near the battery. We saw other campers on the way in and out, but never really had any interaction or interference with noise. Two of the sites are exposed to full sunshine. I saw one ranger check the toilet in the early morning but that was it. They leave you to enjoy the place, as long as you are respectful of this amazing little slice of paradise. read more

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This review is for the campground. We stayed in site 2. The coded locks on the gate for the drive down to the campground were hard to work with, but thankfully someone left one of them unlocked. By far the largest, non group campsite I've stayed at. There were 4 designated tent spots, a fire pit, 4 picnic tables, and bear box. There's no potable water, and pit toilets only. Pit toilets were in decent shape (I've been to worse). There's stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and just a short walk down to the beach. It's definitely windy and chilly so make sure you bring plenty of layers and gear to hold down your tent. Highly recommend you stay here at least once in your lifetime!! read more

- Coastal Trail hike to Kirby Cove- 6-5-2021 Trailhead: Park at Trailhead Parking off Conzelman Rd (37.8325109, -122.4820159) Conzelman Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941 Hiking: Take SCA TRAIL up to Conzelman Rd. (0.2 mile) From there take Coastal Trail all the way to Kirby Cove campground (1.2 mile ) You can take a side trail to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point and Battery Spencer . There's a public restroom there. Just take Coastal Trail all the way to Kirby Cove following the sign, it's pretty straight forward. You'll be rewarded with a view of the bridge from the beach and along the trail. Super windy. Take a windbreaker. Wildflowers: California poppies, goldfields, purple lupines, Indian paintbrush, dandelion, sweet peas, ithuriel's spears , morning glories , wild yellow mustard, etc.. Trail Rating : 10/10 Humans : too many to count Bikers : lots Wildlife: Quail Benches : Picnic tables at the campground Stroller friendly: No Distance : 5.44 mile stopping at two different batteries Elevation Gain : 561 ft Rated : Easy read more

With most picturesque view of the city of San Francisco and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Kirby Cove is no ordinary cove or beach. Located within the Marin Headlands adjacent to Fort Baker, Kirby Cove represents the ingenuity of its overseers, first it was the United States Army who once occupied this entire region north of the Golden Gate, as it was a pivotal defense post during the heights of military action, and now with supervision of the beach being transferred to that of the National Park Service who transformed the area into a diverse park. There is so much more one can do at Kirby Cover from beachcombing to hiking to dog walking to even camping there seems to be something for everyone to do, and all mere miles away from the city limits of San Francisco. The first time I saw was on a catamaran, of all things, as we speed along the bay underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and we saw a small beach alongside the cliffs and my friends and I said we have to get there one day. That one day turned out to be a delightful spring day were we had actually stopped off to see the Golden Gate Bridge and I knew that there were a multitude of lookout posts along the winding roadway that overlooks the Golden Gate and I knew we had to get to the right post if we were to get the best view. It turns out that one Battery Spencer was the fourth and final outpost and the closest one to the actual Golden Gate Bridge and parking was pretty easy, which was remarkable considering the crowds that were there that weekend afternoon. But we weren't expecting the large pathway to our right when we got to Battery Spencer, which looked so inviting and once we were done with our picture taking at the Battery, we decided to take a walk with the dog we had with us, and venture down to parts unknown, as everyone else seemed to be doing the same. After about a mile and a half walking along the path, you'll appreciate the descent through stately groves of Monterrey pines, cypress and eucalyptus trees. Coastal sage bushes and colorful Lupine plants dot the hillsides during the spring as you pass by the five overnight camping sites and one day-use picnic table site. We eventually got down to the jagged makeshift staircase made of broken up wood, which led us to one of the most pristine and unkept beaches you would ever see in an urban metropolis. Coarse and moist brown sand greet you alongside balmy temperatures thanks to the shadows coming from the craggy hillsides, but we and our dog loved running around, especially with the great view of the city and Golden Gate Bridge as our background. And then it was our eagerly anticipated our hike back up the hill, which as it turned out wasn't too bad, as we took our time and made it back up with no gasping for air in site. For anyone heading to Kirby Cove, it's know how to get there easily, especially when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge off of Highway 101 from San Francisco. Once you exit the Alexander Ave exit you follow the traffic, you're no longer allowed to travel underneath the highway and must head the long way through the Baker Barry Tunnel which is a one lane road controlled by a traffic signal. From there you travel on Bunker Road and follow the signs by turning left onto McCullough Road which leads you up the winding hills of the Marin Headlands and then you will make it to the Coastal Trail roundabout, parking lot and restroom. But the key here is not to stop and park here because you will be tricked into thinking this was the only place to park, but rest assured there are additional parking spaces along the way on what is now Conzelman Road which twists and turns parallel to that of the coastline. Your second parking lot is the North Tower Golden Gate Parking Lot and your third lot is the Golden Gate View Point Parking Lot. Finally your fourth and final stop is the promised land of Battery Spencer Parking Lot. When you are lucky enough to grab a parking spot (you can wait for a brief time as traffic comes in and out) you get out of your car and if you turn right and look at the steep hill, Kirby Cove awaits! The term hidden treasure gets thrown around too much, but with Kirby Cove it's true, because a lot of people are intimated by the long stretch of dirt road they see ahead of themselves and they think about the long hike back up, but with the beachside views, your feet will actually thank you later that you got to experience a hike like this in an urban oasis. read more

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Definitely my favorite hiking trail to go down the beach to see the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge. Bring a pack back with water and snacks, you'll get hungry like me lol! Also bring a warm sweater because it is windy and cold! Can't wait to come back again! read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

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Swing, swing from the tangles of my heart is crushed by a former love... A.A.Rejects What an amazing view, however I was saddened to realize that the swing was no more. It's a mile walk down a dirt road with a 430' elevation change, so bring water if its a hot day, or if you're thirsty, or if you're dehydrated. If you hate water, consider rolling with a watermellon, nectarine or juicy peach. Wear your swimsuit on a balmy day and frolic in the surf with unparalleled scenery read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

Kirby Cove is a beautiful little beach tucked away below Battery Spencer. To find it, you park in the lot next to Battery Spencer and look to the right hand side for a trail with a white gate. Walk through the white gate and hike down to the beach. The trail is a 1 mile steady downhill trek to the cove. So obviously it is uphill the entire way back. ;) We heard that the famous swing had broken this past week, so we decided to build and hang a new one for everyone to enjoy. As of New Years Eve, there is a new swing hanging in its usual spot. We hope you all have a great time on it. read more

Kirby Cove trail, just another reminder of why we live in such a beautiful city. If you haven't been on this .8 mile trail, what are you waiting for?! Located in the beautiful city of Saulsilito, off the Alexander exit after the Golden Gate Bridge is where you will find the entrance of this beautiful piece of California. If you're not necessarily an "outdoorsy" person, have no fear... this hike can be done from newbie's to the full on hike pros! The hike is paved enough and the inclines are no more than 6-7 (in my opinion!). This hike is doable for all ages. Once you reach the end of the hike, you are introduced to Kirby Cove. KC is a small beach area where you can catch crab, catch some sun rays, and even swing on a swing that a random traveler built. I highly recommend going on a clear day...my group was fortunate enough because on NY's day the weather was perfect we could see into the city and the pictures were perfect! If being more outdoors is in your New Years resolutions list, be sure to check out this trail... you will love it! read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

Late review (visited July 2016) -very sad to learn the swing is gone! As I was planning to come back another year on a day it was clear. I am not surprised this swing is gone. Contrary to many and what you're seeing in pics - the swing was HIGH up. You had to climb in order to get on the swing and thus you need two other people with you to probably help lift you and the other to stabilize the swing. I went on a very windy and cold day. The tides were up the swing and made all the branches to climb on very wet. Made the decision not to do it. Do I regret it? Somewhat. Do I see plenty of people at my job (healthcare practitioner) get traumatic brain injuries due to falls? Yes. Soo, kind of glad I went with the safe side. If you have help and it's a clear day - go for it. The overview hike is not bad. Finding the area may be challenging but there is a sign for the campgrounds. The scenic and hidden areas of this campground are amazing! It was peaceful, scenic and serene. It's crazy so much beauty lies hidden within a big city like SF. Highly recommend to find this spot and just enjoy it :) if the swing is there again, hopefully it is lowered and more sturdy than what it was when I went. Good luck wanderers! read more

Kirby Cove - July 2016 - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

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A truly hidden gem in the Bay Area. I've only heard of this place because of all the Instagrams that people posted. Kirby Cove is actually a campground by the water located at Marin Headlands. You will need a permit/parking pass to actually drive down to the campgrounds. When Amy and I went, we got lucky enough to find parking on the main street at Battery Spencer. It was a short 15 minute walk down the hill, past the camp ground and to the beach. The view from the beach is amazing. The Golden Gate Bridge in all of its entirety is just to the left. You can see all the boats out on the bay to your right. There are many spots to take pictures, but most notably, there's a swing that pretty much everyone takes a picture with. The swing is a little sketchy, and it has broken from time to time. This is a great place for a picnic on warm days. Just be careful of high tide! read more

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Looks like I made it!! On the last warmest day of the year. Yippy! Hidden Gem located in Sausalito. Warning.. Google maps gives the wrong directions lol YES we got lost, until I kept reading it was around Marin headlands. Just below bunkerhil overlooking the Golden Gate bridge was this hidden trail. Looking over a clift, my hiking buddies noticed people walking down this trail. FYI.. parking is a biatch! It's a tourist spot, so don't expect to find a spot fast. About a mile down the trail you will reach the campsite and beach. Beyond lays the mystery swing that everyone wants to go too! Lol but yet also a gorgeous beach and a stunning view of the GG bridge. There was a line when I arrived, but totally worth the wait. Marin is my Muse... read more

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Ssshhh. It's a secret. Is it? Or is it one of those hiding in broad daylight kinds of places? Like the West Point Inn or Tourist Club or the warm springs you can dig out at low tide below the Steep Ravine cabins. Kirby Cove hides from locals more easily for as to access it one must endure the horde that's come to see the GGB from the Marin side all in their rental cars that say a silent Chevy prayer for the iPad and luggage that will surely be stolen but I only was away from the car for fifteen minutes sir. To get to The Cove one must descend The Dirt Road that begins by The Gate which is on the western edge of the first parking lot up Conzleman from the lot at bridge level this upper lot perhaps more aptly named Idiot for the wishful to be in the line a half-mile up Conzleman making eastward passage impassable and just sitting there with blank I'm not from here but maybe Stockton so please don't ask faces. Waiting. For a space. That never comes. The cool bit about this Bay Area backroad destination is that because of the nonsense in the parking lot and the lure of the bridge overlook for all who choke the lot with their rented whips the Kirby Cove itself is nearly deserted. View of the western side of the gate and vistas of SF under the bridge and even more than that like the prize in your Cracker Jack as if your Cracker Jack wasn't already enough, on top of all this some giving soul tied a rope swing to a stout branch of The Leaning Tree and for the Instagram husbands out there you may as well put this on the list because sooner or later you'll be finding your bad selves here. Perish the thought that the swing provider is a Mill Valley orthopedist that profits from the compound tibia snap that will certainly visit you upon a clumsy dismount. Perish that and come on down. Useful bits: 1. Park up Conzleman by the circle where the trails head down to Cronkite Beach and The Tunnel. It's a little under a mile down the path that walks next to the road. 2. When you leave head over the gap and out said Tunnel for as the more direct route back down will subject you to motorized nonsense you need not endure. 3. Do a simple interwebs search for Kirby Cove Camping Reservations and get yourself a spot for next autumn in the months when there is no fog and maybe a full moon for as yes, there is camping here and nobody knows that and how swell really to be able to see the lights of SF from your unzipped front door? Am I right? read more

Kirby Cove - He said he'd be right back ... - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

This is an awesome place that with my wife and I went to San Francisco for a little vacation. Then here and went to get a photos with the Golden gate in the background in the ocean and all that fun stuff. And I must say that this place is beautiful we had a great time it was very nice it was fine beautiful scenery great place read more

I sometimes think about this place. I think about it when I think about serendipitous discoveries. This was not something I set out to find. I hadn't heard of it. I didn't know a thing about it. I just knew I wanted to go across the bridge to the Marin Headlans, and I wanted to hike. When I parked at the bridge viewpoint and saw this a but further down the road, I just decided to see what was there and that this was the trail to take. It's not really a trail, it's a full dirt road, but it's not usually open to cars (I've read conflicting info on this, but in my winter visit it was clearly marked as closed for the season). It's not a hard hike, just know that it's downhill, and then you have to huff and puff back uphill. The campsites are awesome. I WILL camp here one day. I've thought a lot about what that would look like, and the incredible camp food we could make while looking out over the bay, the city, and bridge, and how it would be a whole different universe of nature; protected by the trees from the hustle of the city. In a city like San Francisco with such incredible restaurants, and cafes, and bakeries, and chocolate shops, I've wondered if the food we make here at camp would still beat them all. I bet it would. That's the beauty of Kirby Cove. It's so close but so removed. You can camp with the city lights outside your tent door. Sites can be reserved online, but they go very fast, the moment they become available, months ahead of time. The setting is quite nice--lots of trees and green, and then the beach is one of those millions of tiny colorful pebbles kind. No sand here, but I like the smooth pebble gravel beaches. There are vestiges of old military installations, so there's a sense of history to have with your nature. Super unique. One the issue of "the swing" I'm completely perplexed. I saw some old rope something when I was there a few years ago, but if it's gone, I'm glad. We're in GGNRA territory here. Who's tying up swings willy-nilly? And who's coming here to take a picture of a rope thing someone tied up? If you're trekking down a gorgeous trail, through trees, to a colorful pebble beach, with THAT VIEW of the bridge and city, and your main concern is a photo of a rope... it just feels like you're missing the entire point. Instead, maybe come here and look at the green. The trees. The water. The cliffs down the shore. Camp. Bring a loaf of sourdough (when in Rome, right?) and fancy mustard and cheese and salami and truffles, and bring lemon curd and blueberries and pancakes for breakfast. Breathe the salty air, look at those lights from your tent at night, and watch the sun come up beyond the bridge by morning. Watch. Listen. Be. That's the Kirby Cove I love. read more

The plan: catch the sunrise at Kirby Cove. CHECK! Hubby and I came at the crack of dawn. Yes it was your typical chilly morning, but to have the cove all to yourself while the sun goes up is amazing. All you hear are the waves crashing while you see Golden in the background. One downfall is the swing is broken. Sad, but true. But still a great place to chill and relax. We got there really early- please be mindful of campers on site and stay as quiet as possible. Stuck around for a little bit, walked back and enjoyed the views at Battery Spencer. If you plan to stick around, things to bring: blanket to sit on, dress in layers, water, snacks in your backpack, camera or use your phone. Note: Parking at Battery Spencer was blocked off. Do not attempt to drive down the road to the KC campsite. You have to have a permit, you can't turn around until the end and don't stop and park along this road. There isn't enough space for another car to pass. Park at the Golden Gate Vista point. Go early to get a parking spot or wait for someone to leave during peak times. read more

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Updates about parking: I would not solely rely on the fact that one could drive down to the Kirby Campgrounds. I visited here again and parked on the side of the road (like everyone else). As I was making my way down, I noticed that the road gates that lead down to the campground were locked. I am still not sure how some cars can drive down, but I think registered campers who reserved camping spaces get a key to drive down. So to be safe, the best way to get to the beach swing is to park along the main road and just walk down. Sadly, when I got to the swing, I noticed that the supporting tree that usually helped people get onto the swing had fallen onto the ground. This means that getting onto the swing is a bit more challenging than before, especially for younger kids. I wouldn't say getting on the swing is impossible, but it may require some help from others. To clarify: once you are at the base of the campsite, make your way through the camping grounds and continue till you see an old concrete structure. Walk up that slope/hill and make your way to the beach, The swing is on the far left side of the beach :) read more

So many facts, so little space... Trailhead is easy to miss on any day. Add on the crazy number of people, small parking battles, and the mesmerizing view of the bridge and it's no wonder it took me some time to find it. So here are some directions that might help: *It's easier to follow the directions for Golden Gate Vista Point. 557 McReynolds Rd. Sausalito, CA 94965 *There is a small number of parking space in the area (along with a restroom). *West of the parking lot, you can find a medium-sized sign at the beginning of a dirt road. The road has a gate that can be opened to enter the Kirby Campground with a vehicle. (Check for permits). *Walk down the road for less than a mile and on your left you will find a parking lot, the campsite, and a restroom. To get to the beach, just keep going straight, pass the gates, and up the small "hill". As many reviews stated, there is no swing. Prior to visiting, I was looking at the reviews of other yelpers commenting on how dangerous the swing was. From the pictures it seemed like it was just people afraid of a heights. But looking at where the old swing was, it is way high! If you fall, you're falling some feet into some rocks.. glad I didn't get to risk it. Overall it was a nice look at the Golden Gate Bridge. read more

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It is a longer hike then expected. Better to go in a larger group earlier in the day and just kind of hang out for a couple hours to explore. Would definitely go back again. read more

Super photogenic spot fo sho fo sho! It was definitely a long trek to get down to Kirby Cove, but it's totally worth it. You definitely can get some beautiful pictures here, and it's a fun experience. The swing is a bit too high for me to get on. I had the help from my parents & sis to get me on it. Lol.. and it was pretty scary because it was pretty high off the ground. I'm definitely in love with the pictures/video that my sis help me capture of me on the swing with the tree, GGB, and the beach. Oh so beautiful :) read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

I've always wanted to check this place out, but never had the chance to. Spontaneous trip ftw! Unfortunately, they took the swing down so we couldn't take an awesome ig post, but this hike was definitely worth it. It was cloudy/windy/cold at the top, but as you hike down and get to the cove, it gets pretty calm and warm. The cove is hidden between two huge valleys so they were able to block everything. Thank God! It was a short hike (0.8mile to be exact), but the hill is steep enough for you to be challenged. read more

Kirby Cove - She sells sea shells by the sea shore (Tongue twister) - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

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A little mini hike down about 2 miles to the beach , so quit and relaxing. Didn't see the swing like we wanted too, but it's still a nice view read more

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My new favorite spot to see the bridge from!! We didn't come camping, we took the hike down from Battery Spencer. The walk is only about 20 minutes one way. On the way down it is completely bearable. The way back up isn't all that steep either. I wasn't able to spot the swing, maybe we didn't explore the beach enough. We are going to have to try out camping here next! read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California

If you're all about finding that perfect shot to commemorate your SF trip - complete with a swing overlooking the ocean with the Golden Gate Bridge in plain view, Kirby Cove is THE beach to visit. I think this was the ultimate highlight of my SF trip - it was that amazing! The location of Kirby Cove is a bit hard to find. It's enroute to the different scenic points of the Golden Gate Bridge. What's easiest is to probably go down Conzelman Road toward Fort Baker in order to reach the Golden Gate postcard view. Because the traffic can quickly become bumper to bumper, it's best to immediately snag a spot when you first find it. Parking can become incredibly hard to find, especially with all the tourists trying to take pictures of the bridge. When you see the two white gates that open into a paved road pathway, that is where you want to go! The sign should say "Scenic Overlook Kirby Cove" with a 0.8 mile hike (one way) that will lead you to the ocean and to Kirby Cove. The mile hike is not too bad. The road is paved, making it super comfortable if you're not a big hiker. The walk to the beach is pretty much downhill, and since you're ambling down in anticipation to see the swing, it kinda feels like nothing. It's the walk back up that can get a bit tiring. There are NO bathrooms along the trail. Just tons of greenery: green trees, shrubs, the beautiful bridge. It's not until you get to the campgrounds will you find the public bathrooms. You have no idea how grateful I was to see one of those bathrooms. But anyway, the hike is definitely a good reminder of how important and necessary nature really is, and to just get away from that hustle and bustle of every day life. Once you hit the campgrounds (and the bathrooms!), you're pretty much there. You can probably hear the waves! The campgrounds looked interesting, but I'm not a big camper. Apparently sometimes random people might take away the swing or replace it with just a rope, so hopefully the day you visit, the swing will be there. We took our chances and got lucky! Somebody had just replaced the rope and the swing, so it was pretty much like new. The beach view is seriously amazing! Once you hit the beach and take in the view, you really get a sense of God's amazing masterpiece. You get a nice view of the bridge with the blue ocean surrounding it. The sand is really clean and there isn't (not that I could see) any trash littered along the floor. This beach is not the biggest and not super popular, definitely more of an insider location that only some people are aware of, so hopefully it stays that way. So the best part about this beach is definitely the swing. Pretty sure that's why most of us girls make the mile trek down. It does suck when you're taking a pic and there's a line behind you. The girls waiting behind us were incredibly pushy, making us feel uncomfortable and awkward, so we didn't get as many pictures as we would have liked. But the experience on the swing - glancing out at the bridge with the wind whipping through your hair, the rush of the ocean below, and getting to feel like a kid for a few minutes (okay, seconds) - doesn't get much better than that. tl;dr - A must visit for all the scenic/IGers or those who just like finding a cool spot in SF. It's well worth the 0.8 mile each way. Highly recommend! read more

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So this is a review of the campgrounds for those of you with a reservation and not for a day hike down to the campsite. BTW, as of 6/17, the swing has been cut. We were lucky to get a spot at one of the five camp sites for a Friday night stay. To find the campsite, read directions here: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/kirby-cove-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70972 You will have been given a code to unlock the locks on the gates. It's a narrow drive down to the parking, about a mile, where two cars passing might make for a heart stopping drive. There are also many day-trekkers hiking up/down the road so take it slow. The parking lot has wheel-barrels so you can cart all your camping supplies to your site, which was a nice surprise. Also nice was that the camping site is literally a 2 minute walk, making it super convenient. The restrooms are dotted throughout -- only porta-potties (no shower) but it has toilet papers. The camp site that we reserved was number 3 and it had three spaced to set up tents, a nice big fire pit/grill, four picnic tables/benches (no need to bring chairs), a food locker to keep out the raccoons, of which many came to visit during the night (one literally jumped onto the table while we were all looking at the fire and didn't even notice till one of us turned around. They are that stealthy.) The site itself was truly magnificent. It's right by the the beach, with a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Wildlife was abundant - we spotted whales, seals, deers, quails, raccoons, and heard coyotes and of course chorus of birds. I'd recommend brining food to grill, firewood, water (there is none on premise), hand sanitizer ( useful after the porta-potty) and lantern/flash light so you can navigate the campgrounds in the dark. I'd say Site 1 has the best location, while site 4 is probably the least desirable, though really, you are lucky to be at any of the campsites at Kirby Cove. read more

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Getting here is a bit of a mission, but oh so worth it! Reading other people's reviews it seems that the popular swing is a "hit or miss", luckily when my friend and I went the swing was there! So you just have to pray to the swing gods it's there lol. Parking can be a mission, the two closest spots to the entrance were barricaded off (Golden Gate Bridge Vista View and Golden Gate View), so we had to park half a mile up the road to the first open outlook spot (Golden Gate Public View). Parking is free there (woohoo!!) and once we finished taking our pictures at the outlook we made our way down. There was a gravel path behind the railing, just be extremely careful because even though this path will take you to the entrance of the hiking trail of Kirby Cove, it's right at the edge of the cliff, so one false move or trip and you'll go tumbling down. Once at the entrance (you'll see a sign), it's about a mile hike down from there, near the end you'll come to an opening which is the camp grounds, and then just a little further and mama you made it! Nothing is more beautiful then the sight of the Golden Gate Bridge with the waves crashing on the beach and SF in the background. Then if you walk a littleeee further down the beach there you will see the swing. We went on 1/28/17 at about 11am-12pm and the swing was there. Only a group of 3 people were ahead of us to go on it and take pictures. So once they were done it was our turn and there was no one behind us, so I would say we got a good 15-20 mins with the swing before anyone else showed up. I don't think you'll get more then maybe a max of 10 people at a time on the beach, so you don't really have to fight for the swing and everyone is pretty courteous about sharing it. There are honestly so many great views of the Golden Gate Bridge, but hands down this has to be the best one! So if you do decide to go here, happy swing hunting! read more

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Kirby Cove is a good campground. We had Site #1. I punched a raccoon in the face. It was an accident. I thought it was a burglar.

Great spot to see the Golden Gate Bridge from the Marin county side. Only down side is you have to walk about a mile to get down to the beach. Of course, there is the Instagramable swing set up on the beach where people like to take pictures. I came here on a late Sunday afternoon and even witnessed a couple getting engaged! The swing was harder to get on than I had imagined. It's a small log tied to a rope. But luckily there is a tree near by that you can use as a step. Beautiful romantic spot, definitely worth stopping by if you are exploring the Marin headlands! read more

Kirby Cove - Campgrounds Near Me - Sausalito, California