Black Sands Beach

Black Sands Beach is a south-facing dark sand beach below the Marin Headlands in Golden Gate National Recreation Area. There are great city views to be had just a few paces down the trail from the parking lot, but it is worth hiking the rest of the way down to this amazing black sand beach.

To get to Black Sands Beach, drive north across the Golden Gate Bridge into Marin County. Head west on Conzelman Road until it becomes a one way road then continue about a half-mile to a parking lot on the left side. This lot is signed for the Upper Fisherman’s Trailhead but it’s the access for Black Sands Beach. Unfortunately this parking lot only has room for about a dozen cars so it might be full when you get there unless you go early. There is a small bike rack at the trailhead if you wanted to pedal to this beach from Sausalito or San Francisco.

From the parking lot a steep dirt path descends the hillside to the beach which is on the east side of Bonita Cove, a broad cove formed by Point Bonita at the mouth of the Golden Gate. The hike down has been made easier with wooden steps, but it’s still a steep grade.

At high tide Black Sands Beach can be narrow so check tide charts before your trip (or head to Rodeo Beach which is a short drive away and is a stunning beach even at high tide). Also nearby is Point Bonita Lighthouse, a highly recommended attraction, which is visible from Black Sands Beach.

Note that the area to the west over the rocks is considered a clothing-optional beach so be forewarned if you venture that way.

Address

Conzelman Rd
Sausalito, CA 94965

Phone

415-561-4700

Park Name

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Upper Fishermans Trailhead

Other Names

Bonita Cove Beach, Point Diablo

Owner

National Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed

Fees

Free parking

Activities

Hiking, Photography, Sunbathing, Beach Exploration, Fishing

Amenities

Restrooms, Trails, Viewpoint, Black Sand

Links

Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart
Aerial View of Black Sands Beach