Located on the northern edge of the San Francisco peninsula with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, Angel Island, and Alcatraz, the Marina District is a trendy neighborhood only minutes from downtown. Classic Victorians, new contemporary designs, and colorful townhouses have made the district one of the premier destinations in the city. The Marina, as its name implies, has a diverse waterfront dotted with sailboats, wharfs, and parks. Nearby Fort Mason and the Presidio offer additional bayside options whether it’s walking by the water, exploring the Palace of Fine Arts, or visiting any number of museums and attractions that now occupy the former military base.
History
Built on the demolished ruins of the 1906 earthquake, the Marina District has seen its share of reconstruction. After the 1989 Loma Prieta quake, the Marina had to be rebuilt again as a number of buildings erected on the former dunes and marshes sustained extensive damage. During the rebuilding of the district, the homes in the area were retrofitted with earthquake-proof architecture while retaining much of the same charm from the 1920s when the major redevelopment following the 1906 earthquake was completed. Construction on the nearby Golden Gate Bridge was finished in the 30s and gave the district a boost with its new, easy access to Marin and northern California.
Arts and Culture
The Marina District is well-known for its galleries, boutiques, and shops. Walking around the Marina, the striking homes and gardens make for pleasant afternoons ambling aimlessly through the neighborhoods. Explore one of the local craft shops, or stop by an outdoor café and people watch for a taste of the distinct flavor of the district. Nearby, the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture hosts a number of exhibits and events throughout the year showcasing local and international artists, and is home to walking trails and waterfront parks. The not-for-profit SFMOMA Artists Gallery exhibits artists’ works from Northern California and offers classes for all skill levels. For a unique experience, the Wave Organ is a wave-activated rock sculpture located on a jetty in the San Francisco Bay. Among the most worldly and cultural cities in the nation, San Francisco is home to a variety of neighborhoods and districts, with the Marina being the jewel at the tip of the peninsula.
Dining for any Taste
The Marina is a go-to destination for dining of any taste and budget. Whether looking for dinner by the water or a more posh experience, the variety of eating spots is as diverse as the vibrant colors of the neighborhood. For a casual Italian experience, try Delarosa on Chestnut Street. Ace Wasabi, a traditional Japanese restaurant serves fresh sushi and was voted one of America’s Top Sushi Restaurants by Zagat. For more traditional fare, try Causwells, an American bistro serving up locally sourced ingredients as well as an assortment of craft beers. After dinner, the local favorite, Horseshoe Tavern, touts itself as the “non-Marina Marina Bar” where locals come to enjoy a casual bar setting. Whatever you’re looking for in a night out, the Marina is a great destination for a variety of cuisines and local flair.
