Milagra Ridge Nike Missile Site (don't worry, it is decommissioned)

View from the ridge of Milagra Ridge in San Mateo County, looking southwest

San Francisco skyline as viewed from Treasure Island

Junipero Serra Park, one of the many great parks in the San Mateo County Park system

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, another totally cool San Mateo park; they have seals!

Crystal Springs Reservoir, a drinking water source so no swimming or boating, but nice views.

Mori Point, Pacifica. One of the closest hiking destinations to SF but nearly always foggy

A dramatic drop to the sea at Mori Point, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Point Montara Lighthouse is tiny but it has a big location. A hostel here provides a quiet getaway.

Point Montara Lighthouse has beach access but I wouldn't count on swimming here.... think rough and cold surf that even I only went in up to my knees.

Purisima Creek Redwoods, a huge park that is a Midpeninsula Regional Open Space

Purisima Creek hikes can be up to 20 miles and have up to 1,600 feet in elevation change.

Point Bonita Lighthouse, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Entry to Point Bonita Lighthouse, picture the lighthouse deadcenter on the other side of the rock

Point Bonita Lighthouse, not a bridge for the fainthearted, but this still active lighthouse has great views and quite a history.

Access to the lighthouse is currently only Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (as of 2008).