A guide to solo female travel, San Francisco

San Francisco is a dynamic and vibrant city, offering a rich cultural scene, iconic landmarks, and a diverse array of neighborhoods to explore. For solo female travelers, San Francisco offers something for both adventurers and culture vultures. Let's see what the home of the Golden Gate Bridge has to offer for solo female travelers.

Key takeaways

• Solo female travel in San Francisco
• Best time to visit San Francisco
• Must-see places and things to do in San Francisco
• Getting around San Francisco
• Weather in San Francisco
• Accommodation for solo female travelers in San Francisco
• Is San Francisco safe for solo female travelers?
• Tips from a San Franciscan local
• San Francisco for solo female pet sitters
• Things to do with dogs in San Francisco
• House and pet sits in San Francisco

Solo female travel in San Francisco

Best time to visit San Francisco

San Francisco, CA, boasts a temporal climate, with scorching summers and chilly winters. However, the best time of year to visit San Francisco is generally during the fall months of September to November. During this time of year, the city typically enjoys warmer temperatures and clear skies. Tourist wise, its far less crowded in the fall compared to the peak summer season.

Must-see places and things to do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Duh, you have to see the Golden Gate Bridge while you’re in San Fran! Well, it’s quite difficult to miss… As one of the most famous landmarks in the world, it offers the best views, of the city and overlooks some of the best hiking spots in the city.

Alcatraz Island

For a more sobering experience, you can explore the infamous former prison with a ferry ride and guided tour. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this is a popular tourist destination all year round.

Lombard Street

Known for its steep, winding turns and beautiful landscaping, Lombard Street offers one of the most iconic views in San Francisco. So, if you love a good photo op, you have to swing by!

Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

One of the most lively and vibrant areas in the city, it’s packed with shops, restaurants, and bars. For nature lovers, you can often see sea lions lounging on the docks and around the Aquarium of the Bay - be warned, keep your distance as they can be a little bit grouchy!

Chinatown

Did you know San Francisco Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside Asia? Fun fact! This is a great place to stroll through and shop, as well as enjoy some of the best food in the city with its authentic Chinese cuisine.

The Mission District

Known for its vibrant murals, trendy bars, and famous burritos. Don’t miss Dolores Park for a sunny day picnic!

Haight-Ashbury

Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture, Haight-Ashbury is synonymous for its vintage shops, murals, and historic spots from the Summer of Love.

North Beach

AKA San Francisco's "Little Italy" with charming cafes, bookstores, and historic landmarks like the Coit Tower. Another great chillout spot if you’re not feeling the crowds!

Ferry Building Marketplace

This foodie haven on the Embarcadero waterfront offers artisanal products, gourmet snacks, and stunning views of the Bay Bridge. It’s an excellent place for solo dining.

Getting around San Francisco

San Francisco has a robust and varied public transportation system that makes getting around the city easy and convenient. Similarly, some bits are even a tourist attraction in themselves! Muni (San Francisco Municipal Railway) and Muni Buses - including the historic, vintage streetcars (F-Market & Wharves Line) - run every day and often quite late into the night too. Tickets can cost as little as $2.50 per ride and can take you to all the major sights and neighborhoods in the city.
If you a more rapid form of traveling, the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) connects San Francisco with the surrounding Bay Area. Similarly the SamTrans (San Mateo County Transit District) offer bus service between San Francisco and nearby San Mateo County.

Useful for reaching destinations south of the city and San Francisco International Airport.

Alternatively, there are several ferry services around the San Francisco Bay Area for a more leisurely, aquatic route. Or, if you don’t mind breaking a sweat, the city offers public bike hire across the metropolis.

Weather in San Francisco

San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round, with dry summers and wet winters. The average High is about 60–70 °F (15–21 °C), with an average low of 45–55 °F (7–13 °C). While it experiences little difference in terms of temperature variation, it can experience sudden storms, rain showers, and strong winds due to it’s Pacific location.

Accommodation for solo female travelers in San Francisco

You’ve probably heard us say this before, but house and pet sitting is by far the best way to explore any major city. Not only can you stay a from home, but you have the chance of a more enriching experience by sharing it with a new pet pal. Offering loving in-home pet care is a magical experience and a great way to live like a local!

However, if you’re unable to find a house sit, there are plenty of hostels, hotels, and guest houses that are safe and convenient for solo female travelers:

• Union Square: Great for shopping, public transport, and dining.
• Fisherman’s Wharf: Tourist-friendly with easy access to waterfront attractions.
• North Beach: A vibrant neighborhood known for its Italian heritage and cozy cafes.

Is San Francisco safe for solo female travelers?

Like any major city, San Fran does have areas that can feel less secure, particularly at night. However, as US travel and cities go, it is one of the safest in the country. Of course, it’s best to follow any safety tips, including:

• Stay in well-lit areas
• Be mindful of your belongings (petty theft is always an issue in tourist hot spots)
• Use trusted transportation
• Know your neighborhoods
• Stay connected by sharing your itinerary with friends or family - keep them periodically updated

Tips from a San Franciscan local

Of course, the locals are the best people to offer tips and tricks on enjoying and exploring any city. Here are a few pearls of wisdom from native San Franciscans:

• Pack for microclimates - San Francisco weather is famously unpredictable. You can experience sun, fog, wind, and chilly temperatures all in one day. Bring layers without and don’t forget to wear some comfortable walking shoes.
• Use the public transportation - not only is a fun experience, but it’ll save you a load of cash, particularly as traffic can be really bad during rush hour times.
• Avoid driving if possible - similar to the point above, there are a lot of cars in San Francisco winding around old historic streets.  Parking is scarce, expensive, and often involves steep hills.
• Time for tourist spots -  visit popular spots like Alcatraz, Pier 39, and Lombard Street early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Enjoy the views - the best spots for views are Twin Peaks, the Marin Headlands, and the top of Coit Tower. For stunning Golden Gate Bridge shots, try Battery Spencer or Baker Beach.

San Francisco for solo female pet sitters

Things to do with dogs in San Francisco

Dogs are a big part of life in San Francisco! It offers a variety of dog-friendly activities and destinations for you and your canine companion. However, remember to check the specific rules for each place you visit to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your pup pal.

Fort Funston

Located off Skyline Blvd, Fort Funston is a popular spot featuring trails and beach areas where dogs can play off-leash under voice control. It's a great place for your dog to socialize and enjoy the outdoors. 

Golden Gate Park

This expansive park offers numerous trails and open spaces for leashed walks. Highlights include the Bison Paddock, Stow Lake, and the Conservatory of Flowers. Some areas may allow off-leash play; look for designated signs. 

Crissy Field

Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Crissy Field features a sandy beach and walking trails with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Dogs are welcome off-leash in certain areas, making it ideal for a seaside romp. 

Baker Beach

Situated south of the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach is a scenic spot where leashed dogs can enjoy the surf and sand. It's a perfect place for a leisurely beach day with your pet. 

Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruises

For a unique experience, consider a bay cruise with Blue & Gold Fleet, which allows leashed dogs on board. Enjoy views of the city's landmarks from the water with your furry friend. 

House and pet sits in San Francisco

San Francisco is a popular place for TrustedHousesitters members, meaning it shouldn’t be too tricky to find a place to pet sit in this amazing city. Choose from either a centrally located apartment, beach-side property, or perhaps something a bit more out in the open for a more relaxing experience.