57+ Best San Francisco Photo Spots (From a Local Who’s Lived Here 11 Years)

I’ve lived in San Francisco for over nine years and I’m still finding new photo-worthy places all the time. This city may only be 7×7 miles, but it packs a punch when it comes to visual gems—from iconic landmarks to tucked-away neighborhoods that feel like entirely different worlds.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or creating content full-time, this is your guide to the best San Francisco photo spots. Some are iconic, others are hidden gems, and all are worth the photo op.

Tip: I share even more hidden San Francisco photo spots and updates on Instagram at @thewhimsysoul

Quick List of the Most Instagrammable Places in San Francisco

• Battery Spencer Overlook (the best Golden Gate Bridge overlook!)
• Painted Ladies at Alamo Square
• Twin Peaks at sunset
• Conservatory of Flowers
• Sutro Baths and Land’s End
• Chinatown and the Rainbow Sidewalk
• Ferry Building and Cupid’s Span
• 16th Avenue Tiled Steps
• The Palace of Fine Arts
• Colorful houses and stairs
• Lombard Street
• Treasure Island
• James Turrell Skyspace

Golden Gate Bridge Photo Spots

Battery Spencer

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and drive into the Marin Headlands to reach Battery Spencer. You’ll be standing nearly on top of the bridge’s North Tower. This is my go-to sunset spot (and sunrise when I can wake up for it!) for those iconic bridge shots and Bay Area view. 

Marshall’s Beach

Tucked below the cliffs of the Presidio, this beach gives you a rare view of the Golden Gate Bridge from sea level. It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it for wide, moody shots of the bridge. It makes one of the best hidden San Francisco Instagram spots in the whole city. 

Hawk Hill

Not far from Battery Spencer but far less crowded. You’ll get panoramic shots of the bridge and coastline. It can be windy, so come on a clear, calm day for the best results.

Classic San Francisco City Views

Painted Ladies

These pastel Victorian homes at Alamo Square are one of the most photographed places in the city. Visit at golden hour for the best lighting, then explore the area for more gorgeous facades.

Twin Peaks

Head up here for sweeping views of the city skyline. You can see the Bay Bridge, downtown, and even the Golden Gate Bridge peeking through. Best time to go is dusk when the sky is glowing and the lights begin to twinkle.

Dolores Park

Locals love hanging out at Dolores on weekends. Head to the top of the hill to get a wide view of the city framed by palm trees. It’s also legal to drink here, so it’s perfect for a picnic photo session. It also has a great San Francisco skyline view. 

Floral and Colorful Photo Locations

Dutch Windmills and Tulip Garden

Located on the western edge of Golden Gate Park, this spot feels like a fairytale. In spring, the tulips bloom in front of the historic Dutch windmills. Golden hour here is stunning.

Wisteria on Potrero Hill

Each spring, a massive wisteria bush bursts into bloom at Mariposa and Connecticut. It’s whimsical and ideal for portraits or outfit photos.

Bougainvillea House on Union Street

Come spring, this entire house is covered in bright pink bougainvillea. It’s a favorite hidden gem I return to again and again.

Rose Garden at Golden Gate Park

Tucked behind the deYoung Museum, this rose garden comes alive with color in late spring and early summer. It’s usually quiet and peaceful—perfect for soft, romantic shots.

Street Art, Murals, and Urban Vibes

Clarion Alley

Located in the Mission District, this alley is full of colorful murals that change throughout the year. It’s one of the best places to see street art up close in San Francisco.

Umbrella Alley

Just off Fisherman’s Wharf, this alley features the famous “Welcome to San Francisco” mural plus a bunch of other vibrant works from local artists. It’s completely free to explore.

Castro Rainbow Sidewalk and Nearby Murals

At the corner of Castro and 18th, you’ll find the iconic rainbow crosswalk. A few blocks away, there’s a rainbow garage mural on 17th and Sanchez. Both are perfect for color-filled photos.

Historic Landmarks and Cultural Icons

Palace of Fine Arts

Massive Roman-style columns, a reflecting pond, and open green space make this a dramatic photo backdrop. Visit in the early evening when the crowds thin and the light turns golden.

Ferry Building and Cupid’s Span

At the base of Market Street, the Ferry Building’s tower is an SF icon. A short walk away, the Cupid’s Span sculpture adds a playful element to your waterfront shots.

Chinatown and the Dragon Gate

One of the oldest Chinatowns in the U.S., this area is bursting with color. Snap photos under the lanterns, at the gate, or with murals throughout the neighborhood.

Grace Cathedral

Perched on Nob Hill, this cathedral looks straight out of Europe. The stained glass inside is gorgeous and the architecture outside is perfect for dramatic angles.

Holiday-Specific Photo Spots

68 Castro Street

Also known as the Nutcracker House, this home lights up with oversized decorations. Visit at dusk to catch it as the lights come on.

Union Square at Christmas

From the giant tree to the skating rink and the surrounding light displays, Union Square becomes a holiday dreamland in December.

Aesthetic Cafes and Instagram-Worthy Restaurants

Le Marais Bakery (Castro)

One of my go-to brunch spots with chic French decor, pastel tiles, and delicious food. Very photogenic inside and out.

Home Cafe

Known for its bright and colorful lattes, Home Cafe is a must if you want a pop of color in your photos.

Son & Garden

Floral ceiling installations, dramatic drinks, and pastel furniture make this one of the most over-the-top, Instagrammable cafes in the city.

Pacific Catch Tiki Bar

In the Inner Sunset, the parking lot has been transformed into a full tiki experience. It’s playful, bright, and perfect for a tropical-themed shoot.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Escapes

Sutro Baths and Land’s End

Hike along the coast to reach these historic ruins. Come at golden hour for dramatic light over the water. Nearby, you’ll find the Land’s End Labyrinth with stunning bridge views.

Stow Lake and Huntington Falls

A quiet place for a walk or rowboat ride. There’s also a Chinese pavilion and a waterfall here—perfect for serene shots. In fact, Golden Gate Park has many of the best photo spots in San Francisco. 

Sutro Forest

One of my favorite secret hiking spots in San Francisco. The trails under towering trees feel almost magical, especially on foggy mornings. 

Iconic Homes, Colorful Stairs, and Secret Corners

Lyon Street Steps

Start at the top for sweeping views of the Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz, and beyond. The homes along the way are just as photogenic.

Flatiron Building (North Beach)

This narrow green building is framed perfectly by the Transamerica Pyramid. Walk by for an ideal street-style shot.

16th Avenue Tiled Steps

One of the most famous staircases in the city. The mosaics are vibrant and the view from the top is incredible.

Lime Green House (Irving and La Playa)

Nicknamed the “Avocado House,” this vibrant lime green facade with colorful trim is one of the most fun spots for a shoot. It’s a block from Ocean Beach so take a walk here after! It’s truly one of the best places for street photography San Francisco has, I take photos there all the time. 

Pink House (Alamo Square)

Across from the Painted Ladies, this pink home has incredible architectural details. Come in the morning for softer light for some of that epic San Francisco photography. 

Purple House (15th and Noe)

Soft purple tones, a charming porch, and a quiet location make this a standout home for lifestyle photos.

Unique and Hidden Photography Gems

Wave Organ

An acoustic sculpture that uses ocean waves to create sound. It’s made from salvaged headstones from the 1906 earthquake and has a surprisingly peaceful vibe. There’s something nice about seeing Coit Tower peek out from the houses and the sweeping Bay in front of you here. 

Portals of the Past

This lone arch in Golden Gate Park is a remnant from a building destroyed in the 1906 earthquake. A unique and historic backdrop.

Crissy Field

Located along the waterfront, this spot offers grassy areas, a beach, and uninterrupted Golden Gate Bridge views. Great for casual morning strolls and coffee shots.

Fort Point

Built directly under the Golden Gate Bridge, this historic fort has a rooftop with unbeatable views looking up at the bridge. It’s one of my favorite iconic Golden Gate overlook spots. 

Point Bonita Lighthouse

Located in the Marin Headlands, this lighthouse is only open a few days a week. A suspension bridge leads to it, and the views are jaw-dropping.

Floral Grubb Nursery

A favorite for plant lovers. The outdoor garden includes colorful walls, an old car filled with greenery, and dozens of aesthetic corners.

General Store (Judah Street)

A minimalist boutique with a dreamy greenhouse in back and a photo-perfect circular arch inside.

Cable Cars

The classic San Francisco photo. Head to the Van Ness stop early in the morning to snap a photo without crowds.

Planning a San Francisco Trip?

Check out these helpful California resources to round out your visit:

• One Day in San Francisco Itinerary
• 19+ Fun Things to Do in San Francisco
• What to Pack for San Francisco (By Season)

FAQ: San Francisco Photo Spots

What is the most Instagrammable place in San Francisco?

The Golden Gate Bridge is the most iconic and Instagrammable spot in San Francisco. Top locations for photos of the bridge include Battery Spencer, Marshall’s Beach, and Hawk Hill. For a more colorful, urban vibe, visit the Painted Ladies or the Castro Rainbow Sidewalk.

Where can I take pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge?

Some of the best places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge include:

• Battery Spencer Overlook
• Marshall’s Beach (from below)
• Hawk Hill (panoramic view)
• Crissy Field (with beach foreground)
• Fort Point (directly underneath the bridge)

What are the best hidden photo spots in San Francisco?

Some underrated and hidden San Francisco photo spots include:

• Land’s End Labyrinth
• Sutro Forest
• The Bougainvillea House in Cow Hollow
• Wisteria bloom in Potrero Hill
• The Wave Organ near the Marina
• 68 Castro Street Nutcracker House during the holidays

What time of day is best for San Francisco photography?

Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) offers the best lighting for photography in San Francisco. For foggy mood shots, go early in the morning—especially in summer when fog is common. Sunset at Twin Peaks, Battery Spencer, or Sutro Baths can produce stunning skyline and coastline photos.

Are there any Instagrammable cafes in San Francisco?

Yes, some of the most Instagrammable cafes in San Francisco include:

• Son & Garden (floral fantasy brunch)
• Home Cafe (colorful lattes)
• Le Marais Bakery (French-inspired interiors)
• Pacific Catch Tiki Bar (tropical vibes in the Inner Sunset)

Where can I find street art and murals in San Francisco?

For murals and street art, head to:

• Clarion Alley (Mission District)
• Umbrella Alley (Fisherman’s Wharf)
• The rainbow mural on 17th & Sanchez in the Castro
• Alleyways around Chinatown and North Beach

Know a Hidden SF Photo Spot?

Leave a comment below or send me a DM on Instagram at @thewhimsysoul. I love hearing from other explorers and adding new spots to this list.