Being in California, and of course, near or in San Francisco is ideal if you’re a nature lover. Why? With temperate weather most of the year around San Francisco, there’s never a better reason to go exploring, especially if you’ve been searching for “waterfalls near me.” You will need to prepare for this trip as some waterfalls are a bit of a drive outside San Francisco. These waterfalls are all in beautiful areas and are well worth the trip. There is a map below that is interactive and shows the exact locations of each of the waterfalls in this piece. Whether you’re looking for a waterfall in San Francisco or waterfalls near San Francisco, you’ve come to the right place. Now, let’s check out these waterfalls!

Use our interactive map with the itinerary and driving directions.
Google Maps
1. Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls Trail, California 94930, USA
Kathy V/Yelp
It is best to visit Cascade Falls after a rainy period to see the falls in all of their glory. If you've been wondering about hiking trails with waterfalls near San Francisco, there is an easy and short trail near Mill Valley. However, the falls are relatively small. Lastly, there are two sets of waterfalls that can be reached at each split on the fork in the road so you'll get to view two waterfalls!
2. Dawn Falls
Baltimore Canyon, Larkspur, CA 94939, USA
B.B/Yelp
The hike to Dawn Falls is family-friendly and it takes hikers along a redwood-lined creek. Dawn Falls is a great hike for everybody at only two miles long. It's one of the best waterfalls near San Francisco and even has a swimming hole! Remember to bring your swimsuits. Also, please note that parking at the Madrone Drive Trailhead is very limited.
3. Carson Falls
Carson Falls Trail, California 94924, USA
Jen N/Yelp
Carson Falls near San Francisco is a wonderful 32-foot-high freefall. In the winter months and after a lot of rain, Carson Falls is an amazing rushing set of falls. This waterfall is often overlooked but more than worthwhile to visit.

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4. Cataract Falls
Cataract Falls, California 94970, USA
AGrinberg/Flickr
Cataract Falls near San Francisco is one of the more popular waterfall hikes in Marin County. The trail follows Cataract Creek from a high elevation down to Alpine Lake. The hike to this stupendous waterfall is about three miles and is one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls near San Francisco.
5. Alamere Falls
Alamere Falls, California 94924, USA
Chris S/Yelp
Alamere Falls is a sight to see. The is a rare tide fall which is a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean. Getting to this waterfall can be tricky but absolutely worth the effort. Alamere Falls is one of the best waterfalls near San Francisco.

6. Mount Diablo Falls
Mount Diablo State Park, Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, USA
Ian L/Yelp
Mount Diablo Falls is more dependent on rain than some other waterfalls so these falls are variable. There are a number of waterfalls around the north side of Mount Diablo and within the trails. Consult the Mount Diablo State Park trail map when you're there and start to explore!
7. Little Yosemite Waterfalls - Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd, Sunol, CA 94586, USA
Mike M/Yelp
Little Yosemite is the waterfall to see when you visit Sunol Regional Wilderness. This park in Sunol where there are plenty of hikes leading to Little Yosemite river which has tons of waterfalls to enjoy as well as beautiful rock formations. This area has some of the best hiking trails with waterfalls near San Francisco.

Check out a great video by YouTube user USA Tourist Attractions of Alamere Falls in Bolinas. This has been described as one of the best waterfalls in the USA.

Have you been to any of these “waterfalls near me” in the San Francisco area? What’s your favorite waterfall in San Francisco? Let us know your experiences, and if we missed any other waterfalls, in the comments. Also, if you’re curious about more nature in Marin County then check out our previous article on this remarkable day trip.

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More to Explore

Waterfall In San Francisco

Melissa M. | July 06, 2022

What are some of the best waterfall hikes near San Francisco?

Located within Golden Gate Park at Strawberry Hill is a man-made waterfall that is worth finding via an easy trail. On top of that, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Stow Lake. Head to Novato where you can discover Buck Gulch Falls, which is fullest after heavy rainfall and accessible via a short out-and-back trail.

Are there any natural wonders near San Francisco?

A mere 38 miles away from the city is Point Reyes National Seashore. Here, you will witness some of the most gorgeous scenery in Northern California. With rocky and sandy beaches, cliffs, and hiking trails, there’s so much to explore. If you want to take advantage of your time here, book a spot at one of the park’s four campgrounds. Also within the park is a cypress tree tunnel you can’t miss seeing! If you’re up for a road trip, the remarkable Manchester Beach State Park is 350 miles away but absolutely worth visiting. Here you’ll find sand dunes along with plenty of driftwood washed ashore.

What are some of the most scenic hikes near San Francisco?

Hiking is the best way to explore nature and we are lucky to have so many scenic hikes in the San Francisco area. You can take one of the easy paved trails in Buena Vista Park, which will treat you to spectacular city views. This park is family-friendly so bring the kids! Lover’s Lane in the Presidio is the area’s oldest hiking trail and it’s lined with gorgeous pine trees along the way.

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