Bouldering at Ocean Beach

San Francisco, California

4.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Added by Joshua Wilson

Free, outdoor bouldering in SFMultiple problems and a retaining wall below the Cliff House. Best at low-tide. Bring some friends and get the bonfire going once the sun goes down.

Tired of climbing in a gym, check out one of the city's best outdoor climbing spots! Below the Cliff House at the north-end of Ocean Beach, there are several great bouldering problems and a retaining wall to climb. The rock is comprised of greenstone and sandstone with cracks and edges. These routes are best at low tide when they're more accessible, but be aware that the problems are highballs, so bring your crash pad! If you're climbing the retaining wall, you can just hop over the top and walk back down the sidewalk if you want to avoid the descent.

The problems range from warm-ups that are V0+/V1 up to more challenging problems rated V6/V7. Keep in mind that during the summer and fall months there's more sand on the beach, making the climbs a little "safer". Also, look for the bolt for the top-roping climb called "Old Man and the Sea". This climb is rated a 5.12.

For a detailed map and outlined climbs, check out the following resources:

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Features

Rock Climbing

Beach

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Reviews

Dominic Pascucci

Bouldering at Ocean Beach

11/26/22

It’s cool to climb outside in the city. It’s cool to climb on the beach. But this rock can be crumbly. When climbing here, my partner fell because the hand hold just gave way on her. And the cave, yes there’s a cave, can sometimes have people sleeping or doing other things in there. It can be a little smelly too. But worth checking out just don’t expect the most awesome rock and crag.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Bouldering at Ocean Beach

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Sutro Baths Ruins

Beach Bonfire at Ocean Beach

Surf Ocean Beach

Golden Gate Angling & Casting Club

Mile Rock Beach

Lands End Trail

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