I want to be clear. I don't surf, or know surfing, but I do know customer service…read more A skill that has been lacking in the business world is empathy, compassion, and anything beyond making the almighty $. I came in this spot looking for a sticker to mark the occasion. (My wife and I came out to enjoy Ocean Beach on Labor Day weekend) They don't sell stickers, but the guy behind the counter pulled out a bunch, and told me to take one for free!!! They were welcoming, and cool AF!!! Highly recommend any business that prioritizes relationships over money because that is what it's all about!!!

I have always wanted to go to Mollusk surf store! I am visiting San Francisco and we were driving…read morethrough Sunset district and found this fantastic store. This store has custom surf boards and loads of surf clothing and sex wax for your boards. Very nice unusual products in a beautiful store makes my desire to try surfing even more. Right across the street is a grest bookstore and coffee shop and other fun, trendy galleries and places to visit in Sunset. I was very impressed and Dave helped me when I spoke to him at the counter. Fun!!!!

This beach used to be pretty sleepy but with all of the news, concerts at GGP and better weather,…read moreit's getting a lot of foot traffic. Every few blocks has a DJ or boom box with a variety of music, especially during the sunset hours. I went on a day when the tides were low and walked barefoot for some grounding. Great place to chill!

A 3.5 mile beach on the western edge of San Francisco, Ocean Beach has an interesting history…read moreinitially known as a dangerous place for ships because of the heavy fog and dangerous sandbars. It was the place where surfing in Northern California was pioneered, where 'wood-choppers' (early surfers who carved boards from nearby redwoods) would risk life/limb to surf in the frigid water. I stopped by for a quick visit (in/out) since we were so close to the area. Admired how large and deep the beach is, and how uncrowded it was. The lack of crowds also meant plenty of street parking.

I took a lesson with Joey at Ocean Beach a few weeks back after having not been on a surfboard in a…read morelong time. Joey was communicative, prompt, encouraging, flexible (met me at a different spot that worked better for me), technical, and answered all my questions - all while maintaining a laid back vibe. I felt much more confident being in the water (OB, no less) and on the board by the end of our lesson! Would highly recommend!

The first thing I did when I found out I was going to San Francisco for the first time was book a…read moresurf lesson, and I am really glad I did. Communication and planning with Joey beforehand was super easy, and he met me at the beach with a board and wet suit ready to go first thing in the morning the day of. We covered some on land basics and then headed into the water. He picked waves, helped push me into them, and i even managed to stand up a few times on the board!! We chatted a bunch about how to read the water, time the waves, how to maneuver yourself and the board if bigger waves are coming in while youre trying to go out. I was comically bad, but he was encouraging the whole time. And i feel prepared enough to pick out a board and try some non guided surfing at my local east coast beaches!​ All in all great experience for something I've wanted to do for a long time.

Unlike neighboring Baker Beach, China Beach is much smaller and almost feels hidden among the…read moremansions in tony Seacliff. Like China Cove across the bay in Marin, this spot was named for the Chinese fishermen who arrived in the throes of the Gold Rush. What's ironic about the name is that the beach was established at the behest of one of San Francisco's most racist mayors whose campaign slogan was "Keep California White" In fact, it was named after him (James D. Phelan Beach) until he died in 1930 and eventually got the current name. Isn't it ironic, y'think? It's a tiny cove at the end of a lengthy staircase and divided into two tinier beaches by a huge rock. At the same time, there's a large shuttered building that flanks the beach and looks to function now more as an observation deck for the great views. I saw restrooms and showers were operating as well. There's also a concrete driveway that goes right to the sand and offers additional shelter from the high winds. I wouldn't say there's that much to do here unless you're a kite surfer or a polar bear. However, it's a worthwhile climax to a hike on the Land's End Trail since it's just a short stroll away, or if you're here at low tide, I heard you can walk directly to and from Baker Beach. I'd wear your inflatable water wings if you plan to do that. RELATED - Going to the beach? Here's a collection of beaches I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/3rMOJ7b

There's a free parking lot...just walk down a flight of stairs to this semi secluded beach/cove…read morewith a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It also seemed like a great place to go crabbing/fishing off the shore without having to deal with crazy crowds on the pier; as we saw several groups of people casting their poles out and reeling in Dungeness crabs!

This beach was about 25 minutes away from Pier 39, which where we were coming from. My daughter…read morechose this beach to celebrate her 17th birthday. It was absolutely beautiful, and we got lucky enough to find parking right at the entrance. The walk onto the beach was easy, and the sand was great. One of the highlights of the day was getting to watch someone set up a marriage proposal, which made the experience even more special. There were also a woman selling hot dogs near the entrance. Overall, it was a wonderful day, and we made some great memories. I would definitely recommend visiting this beach.

I took myself on a solo date to Baker Beach yesterday and it was exactly what I needed. Parked in…read morethe neighborhood sine the lot was full. Was on my a 15 minute walk from my car down to the beach. The fresh air, the sound of the waves, and the peaceful atmosphere made it such a relaxing experience. The vibes here are just different -- calm, grounding, and honestly so good for the soul. It's the perfect spot to clear your mind, take a walk, or just sit and take everything in. Plus, the views of the Golden Gate Bridge make it even more special. Highly recommend taking yourself on a solo date here. I'll definitely be back whenever I need to reset ‍

Kalu is the best Surf School in California. They coached me with the best tips to learn about this…read moreamazing sport and also Surf Lifestyle. Nacho is awesome. And you can reach your Surf goals in the School quickly and effectively. I recommend them so much. Have Fun, enjoy the Surf, enjoy life.

Guys here are great! Took my first lesson with Scotty- got a wetsuit and board and both worked…read moregreat even for me- 6'2 and 210. Walked to the beach, got some great education about the board and reading the waves, sets, breaks, and current. Got in, paddled around, and stood up on my own and rode the third wave! Everyone at the shop is great and the beach they use is filled with beginners and the vibe is friendly and welcoming to all. Highly recommend HOKALI and I'll be back!

Never ever give them your phone number. They keep sending you unsolicited texts with promotions. I…read moreasked them three times to stop as I've found someone else already. Didn't help.

Absolutely a fantastic experience learning to surf with the Hokali team. Being a first timer, I was…read morepaired up with the Scotty who was prepared with a board and clean wetsuit - both perfectly sized for my height and weight. When we got to the beach, Scotty taught the Hawaiian value of Kuleana, ocean safety(rip currents), how to read waves and swells, and how to pop up. Once in the water, Scotty was very supportive, dedicated, and focused on helping me to pick up the art of surfing. It was an unforgettable and incredibly fun experience. I plan to take additional lessons from Scotty to take it to the next level. Scotty is a skilled surfer with a lot of passion and knowledge. Can't wait to take my next lesson !

Stopped by Gus' Discount Tackle in San Francisco not knowing anything about fishing and had a great…read moreexperience. I actually bought my entire fishing setup here, and it was the perfect place to get started. The owner, Steph, was incredibly helpful and clearly knows her stuff. Instead of trying to upsell me on a bunch of gear, she walked me through a few solid options and let me decide what worked best. No pressure at all to buy anything, which was refreshing. I do recommend doing some research beforehand, as it would definitely help with what to buy upon arrival. I have been to other tackle shops where they try to sell you an entire assortment on gear the moment you walk in. Prices are very reasonable for fishing gear, tackle, and bait. It's also a good reminder that places like this are why you should skip the big box stores or online retailers when you can and support your local small businesses. You won't get that valuable knowledge or service from those places. The location is convenient and is easy to find parking and is also close to several fishing spots around the city, which makes it a great stop before heading out. I also had a nice chat with Steph and learned something interesting. She doesn't go fishing, it all started as a general store that happened to stock on fishing gear, tackle, and bait from the request of customers. A lot of their knowledge comes from their customers, which explains the walls full of photos from people showing off their catches. If you do want your picture on the wall though, you have to print it yourself and bring it in. If you don't know where to start, I would highly recommend talking to the owner Steph and she will point you in right direction for gear, techniques, and locations. Steph offered to write out everything, but I just opted to just go out to the water to cast my rod and see what happens. Really hope this shop continues to stick around and serve the local fishing community. Places like this are hard to replace in San Francisco.

This is basically the only real spot in the city to get your fishing gear. The selection is great…read morebut what really makes it stand out is the lady working there. She is super knowledgeable honest and fair in her craft. She takes her time with you and explains everything clearly which is a huge help especially if you're new to fishing. Her advice feels genuine and trustworthy which you don't always get at bigger stores. Whether you're just starting out or have been fishing for years she makes sure you leave with exactly what you need. On top of that the prices are really fair which makes it even better. If you want expert help without any sales pressure this is the place to go. I'll definitely be back whenever I need new gear or fishing tips. I highly recommend this place when you need something quick and you are on the go to that good fishing spot!