View From Cavallo Point

There is no bridge more beautiful than the mighty Golden Gate. Whether she has fog hanging over the top of her spans or sunshine is gleaming off her International Orange exterior, she manages to capture the attention of everyone within sight. Of course, the view of San Francisco from the Golden Gate Bridge is pretty spectacular as well; especially when the sun has set and the reflection of the lights of the city are glimmering on the bay. However, my favorite views are from the Marin Headlands and Cavallo Point, where the city and bridge share the spotlight.

Located on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, the Marin Headlands are a reminder of the past. Here, the hillsides are lined with windswept grasses instead of crowded rowhouses and the land is still wild.  Reminders of past wars come in the form of hidden concrete batteries built into the hillsides which served as key lookouts for the military during World War II.

Situated on the edge of the headlands, the Point Bonita Lighthouse is a must visit for those looking for a unique vantage point to view the bridge and the city. Getting down to the lighthouse is part of the visitor experience. It begins with a walk down a steep path that hugs the cliffs edge with sightings of sea lions feeding below common. A tunnel through the hillside gives visitors access to a bridge which leads to the lighthouse. At the lighthouse, visitors are treated to a view of the Golden Gate and the San Francisco beyond from the ocean perspective, one rarely experienced by even lifelong City dwellers.

Up until recently, the suspension footbridge known as the Little Golden Gate was the bridge folks had to cross, and National Park rangers had to control access to allow just two people on it at a time since it was old and couldn't handle much weight. Quickly crossing the bridge was an eerie experience to say the least. Luckily, the park service is In the process of replacing the bridge and the new one should be open for business in the spring.   The lighthouse is only open on select days so check the National Park website to plan your visit accordingly.

Opened in 2008, Cavallo Point Lodge at old Fort Baker in Sausalito is a unique and luxurious hotel to call home base during your San Francisco vacation. The Lodge sits at water’s edge and views of the Golden Gate or city lights from their finely appointed and ecologically conscious rooms (the lodge holds a LEED gold certification) are intoxicating. The Lodge features historic rooms built in turn of the century officer's housing surrounding a central parade ground as well as contemporary lodging perched on the hillside above Fort Baker. The lodge is well known for its "healing arts" program, full spa, cooking classes, and Murray Circle restaurant featuring Northern California cuisine. Those who have stayed here will agree that being at Cavallo Point is the best of both worlds because the hustle and bustle of the city is just a bridge crossing away but the calming beauty of the waterfront property is an ideal place to rest your head at night.

Photo: Steve