Category: Misc.

Playing Hooky: How to Have the Sickest Day Ever in Bernal Heights

By Majnoonita
updated 6 months ago

Picture this: the weather is remarkable. The sun is ablaze, the fog is at bay. "To hell with work!" you say. Not sure where to spend your impromptu "sick" day? Here's where to start.

Get Refreshed

After your exhilirating hike up Bernal you’ll need a place to recharge those hooky batteries. Wild Side West has one of the best enchanted beer gardens in all of San Francisco and the best part is that it opens at 1pm! Head there after your hike and you will find the perfect place to spend a beautiful afternoon. Whether you’re into pumping the jukebox with classics and playing some pool, chattin’ up friendly regulars on the balcony or just interested in nestling away in one of the many secret-hide-away corners of the garden, this is the best choice for getting a delicious beverage and biding some time on a beautiful day. Don’t forget to try one of their specialty drinks: I recommend the Mojito or the Hot Buttered Rum.

Get High

The best way to start your day of reckless abandon is to get high: literally. Bernal Heights affords one of the best vantage points in the city for panoramic views of San Francisco and the bay. From atop Bernal hill one can see the Golden Gate and Bay bridges, Mount Tam, the entire SF Bay, Twin Peaks, South San Francisco and of course the Oakland Hills.

While looking at Bernal Hill from the Mission it doesn’t give off lofty expectations. From afar it generally has the look of a giant emerald mass (in wintertime, in summer the hill is actually red from the rich clay-like soil) standing guard on the southern end of the Mission flatlands. But upon arrival to the park one is pleasantly surprised by any number of walking paths that lead in zigzags and spirals to numerous peaks and ridges, all of which offer an exceptional view accompanied by a soothing soundtrack of gentle breezes and birds overhead. There’s much to explore and a heckofa lotta vista to take in, so take your time and enjoy the serenity of being at one of the tallest points in the city. Besides, you’ll probably be wicked winded after your trek up the hill so chill out and catch your breath! Don’t forget to bring water because the hike and the wind will leave you parched. Heck, while you’re at it pack a miniature picnic.

Those of you with dogs or bird watching tendencies will be especially pleased with this little adventure, as Bernal is known for it’s vibrant dog-oriented community and stellar bird watching opportunities. Be sure to wear good sneakers!