This One Destination Has The Absolute Bluest Water Near San Francisco

San Francisco may be blessed with absolute beauty, but—between the busy bay, a few man-made lakes, and the expansive Pacific Ocean—finding true-blue waters is a touch more difficult in this little corner of the world. So, let’s travel a bit north up the California coastline to reach Muir Beach, a positively gorgeous stretch of sand tucked under the Marin Headlands, where you’ll find the ocean in all its untamed glory. You’ll want to check out this spot, that boasts the bluest water near San Francisco.

Joe Parks/Flickr

You'll find this quaint and quiet cove and beach just 18 miles northwest of San Francisco and three miles west of Muir Woods.

Jesse Wagstaff/Flickr

Several trails in the area offer spectacular views of Muir Beach and the Marin coastline. Take the Dias Ridge Trail from above, or travel along the Coastal Trail from Tennessee Valley.

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Muir Beach Overlook is one of several base station overlooks in the area. From here, soldiers would watch for ships, a duty that became especially important during the aftermath of Pearl Harbor. Today, it's a place you may be able to spot a whale or two as they make their way down to Baja.

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John G./Yelp

This new pedestrian bridge—the Pacific Way Bridge—connects the Muir Beach parking lot to the beach and Coastal Trail.

vhines200/Flickr

If it's warm enough (and you're brave enough!), take a fresh dip into the blue Pacific.

Franco Folini/Flickr

Or keep to the beach and hunt for vibrantly colored starfish and anemone in the crystal-clear tidepools.

For more Pacific serenity, head to this hidden beach in San Francisco that will take you a million miles away from it all.