A day in San Francisco

San Francisco, United States

Golden Hour - sandy beach

Cool water runs over my feet on the sandy shore. I move along the tide line as the light turns gold. A warm afternoon here can turn into a chilly, wind-swept evening in minutes, so I keep a wool layer with me.

Golden Hour - sandy beach

An orange sky holds a bird as it flies over the sand. I stop and follow it with my eyes until it is gone. July to September stay dry, and September is the hottest month, so I stay out in this late dry light.

Golden Hour - rocky shore

Cold rock meets my palm as I look out toward the bridge. The monumental suspension structure glows in international orange against the coastal fog. Pedestrians and cyclists can traverse the full length on dedicated pathways and take in maritime views of the rugged headlands.

Golden Hour - driftwood log

Rough salt-dried wood holds me while I sit and watch the waves roll in. The sound of the water stays close and the air feels cold. The bridge spans the strait connecting the bay to the open ocean, and coastal fog banks are frequent.

Golden Hour - coastal path

Away from the tide, the coastal path climbs toward the hills. Wind tugs at my flannel shirt while I go. The city pairs steep coastal hills with its engineering, and I wear trainers with a wool layer for the shifting weather.

Golden Hour - coastal path

Fading light and a cold wind meet me under the bridge. I follow the path as the day closes. Cioppino, a hearty seafood stew of crab, clams, shrimp and fish in a tomato and white wine broth, is the bowl to order at a traditional seafood place.