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This section of the coast is amazingly wild, especially considering that it is actually within the city limits. Note that portions of the hike are very rugged, so dress accordingly, with good footwear.

Begin at the far end of the Merrie Way parking lot and take the steps down. Follow the trail that passes by the Sutro Baths ruins, to your left as you descend. Continue on along to the Overlook, from which you can take in Seal Rocks and much of the Pacific panorama.

Now double back a bit to pick up the trail that continues along the coast. You will see the remains of concrete military bunkers, which have been broken and tilted by the unstable land, and now decorated with graffiti. Soon you come to a beach below rocky cliffs; note that the surging water is very unpredictable here, so be very attentive. Continue walking and you will arrive at Land’s End Cove, where a makeshift beach, using rock walls as windbreakers, is popular with nudists.

Next, climb up one of the sets of wooden steps to join the path up above and continue on around the bend, where you will be greeted with a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge . Keep going all the way to Eagle’s Point and return by way of the higher trail that winds through Lincoln Park (see Golf).

For a meal after your hike visit Cliff House .

Simplicity and comfortable fit are the keynotes of the women’s clothing designed by Ann Taylor. Elegant suits, luxurious silk sweaters, linen casuals, or sporty khakis.

The finest gems are set off by elegant designs created by this venerable jeweler, in business since 1832. They also carry figurines by Lladró.

This chain bookstore offers a good selection of the latest titles, some excellent bargain choices, and a snack bar.

Perhaps the most authentic French bistro, run by a talented husband and wife team. He’s the sommelier and knows how to assign the treasures from his list. Service is refined, and every bite memorable.

Fresh Tex-Mex in generous portions. The chips and salsa are free.

Standard American fare, but the real reason to come here is to see the Pacific crashing on the cliffs below and to witness the wonderful sunsets.

Built in 1909, the present structure is the third on this site and was renovated in 2004. Its predecessor, a massively elaborate eight-story Victorian-Gothic castle that burned down in 1907, was built by the flamboyant entrepreneur Adolph Sutro (his estate overlooking Cliff House is now Sutro Heights Park). Cliff House has restaurants on the upper levels, observation decks overlooking the Pacific Ocean, a new wing containing two bars, a visitors’ center, and the Camera Obscura. The Musée Méchanique has moved to Pier 45 at Fisherman’s Wharf (see Musée Mechanique and Holographic Museum).