Activities In San Francisco, California

San Francisco provides plenty of opportunities to stay fit. From walking on hilly Lombard Street to bicycling on Fisherman’s Wharf, the City by the Bay pleases exercise lovers. The Northern California city also has venues for athletes and people looking for a workout. Additionally, San Francisco has healthy eating options in addition to the sweets found at Ghirardelli Square.

Golf

The city’s Recreation and Parks Department operates six municipal courses throughout the city. “Golf Digest” website ranked Gleneagles Golf Course at McLaren Park as the 17th best 9-hole course in the country in its 2010 survey. The city also has two other 9-hole courses: Fleming and Golden Gate. Those looking for the traditional 18-hole course can play at Harding Park, Lincoln Park and Sharp Park.

Organized Sports

San Francisco’s Recreation and Parks Department offers amateur adult athletes and kids a range of organized leagues. They include basketball, baseball, softball, tennis and volleyball leagues. Competitions such as a table tennis tournament and a youth free-throw contest are also held.

Swimming

Swimming helps cardiovascular health and fights obesity. The city introduces newcomers to swimming by offering kids and adults lessons at its nine pools. Even preschoolers—accompanied by a parent—can get instruction. Additionally, the pools have open recreational swimming, competitive swim teams and water aerobics classes.

Tennis

Tennis is another active sport that promotes good health. San Francisco has 132 free courts throughout the city. Additionally, players can reserve 21 courts at Golden Gate Park for a nominal fee. The Recreation and Parks Department gives free lessons at the courts.

Farmers' Market

A healthy diet complements an active lifestyle. The Ferry Plaza Farmers' Market offers fresh farm foods. The items include eggs, fruits, herbs and vegetables. The Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture (CUESA)—a nonprofit organization—operates the market. The farmers' market is open year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.