Fort Funston
The 200-foot tall bluffs at Fort Funston are great for hang gliding and also for a number of other outdoor activities. A network of trails provides great places for hiking and horseback riding (see below). For those who decide to hike down to Burton Beach, be prepared for a steep descent and an arduous return hike. The waves are dangerous and rip currents create a serious hazard.
For those who stay up on the bluffs, there are paved loop trails which are wheelchair accessible. The dune field at Fort Funston is the largest on the peninsula.
Caution: Before setting out, always check with rangers that conditions are safe for your planned activities.
Fort Funston Nursery
The Fort Funston Nursery has been growing native plants since 1980. Many of the plants go to places such as Lands End, Mori Point, and Sweeney Ridge. About 25,000 plants are grown in the nursery every year. Volunteers are always welcome.
Hang Gliding
Fort Funston is one of the best and most popular coastal hang-gliding destinations in Northern California. Consistent winds and a great lift have kept experienced hang glider pilots coming back again and again to soar above the Pacific's coastal bluffs.
Many experienced flyers rate March and October as the best months. There is a wheelchair accessible viewing deck near the launch area. Parking is available in the lot off Skyline Boulevard.
To Be Able to Fly at Fort Funston
Hang gliding at Fort Funston is managed by the Fellow Feathers Hang Gliding Club. In order to be able to fly at Fort Funston you must complete several steps:
- Be a current member of USHPA with a rating of H3 (intermediate) or higher.
- Sign and agree to follow club rules.
- Sign a Fellow Feathers waiver.
- Complete an application form and pay membership dues (either voting membership or a no-voting membership donation.
After completing the above steps, you will be issued a sticker to display on your helmet.
Hang Gliding Flights and Lessons
California Hang Gliding - Flights and lessons
Mar Vista Stables
Mar Vista Stables offers 1, 1½, and 2 hour guided horseback tours along the Pacific Ocean near Thornton and Burton beaches.
2152 Skyline Boulevard, Daly City, CA.
(650) 991-4224
Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Mar Vista Stables
Fishing
Anglers will find a variety of fish at Burton and Ocean beaches, including halibut, striped bass, perch, and cobia. Many locals check for sand crabs along the beach and know that perch will be in the area. Rising tide is a good time to go after them. The southern end of Ocean Beach has some structures that create places where fish are often hiding.
Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab season draws a lot of activity at Baker Beach and its neighbors since they are outside San Francisco Bay. The season dates are determined by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The limit for crabs is 10 and the minimum size is 5¾ inches. Many crab fishermen use snares, small bait cages attached by line to a fishing pole. Loops attached to the snares tighten around a crab's leg. As long as the angler keeps the line taut as they reel it in they are likely to land their prey.
