Nothing beats spending time by the water while you're on vacation. Bring a picnic to Lake Merced and then hang around for an impressive sunset.

When it comes to free experiences to add to your Lakeshore travel plans, Lake Merced is a good starting point. But this body of water is just one of countless sights that draw visitors to this lakeside neighborhood. Head to nearby Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street and Palace of Fine Arts to round off an enjoyable day of sightseeing.

Plan a trip to see Lake Merced

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Bay Landing San Francisco Airport Hotel

Save 100% on your flight

$310

per person

Jan 15 - Jan 18

found 21 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Mesa (AZA) to San Francisco (SFO)

9/10 Wonderful! (4,600 reviews)

Very good location with views across the bay

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2025

Fitzgerald Hotel

Union Square

Save 100% on your flight

$348

per person

Dec 25 - Dec 31

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)

7.8/10 Good! (466 reviews)

Staff was helpful. It’s an older building, so no AC, but it’s San Francisco so the climate is mild. Elevator is turn off the century.

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2025

1 Hotel San Francisco

Downtown San Francisco

Save 100% on your flight

$1,234

per person

Jan 30 - Feb 4

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

New York (JFK) to San Francisco (SFO)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (462 reviews)

I would remove the wood piece in the shower, it had mold on it and I have a mold allergy.

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Lake Merced

Tours & day trips

See all 296 activities

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus

Free cancellation available

History & culture

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California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

See all 80 activities

GoCar San Francisco Tour

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

See all 54 activities

San Francisco: Kids Thrill Zone Combo at PIER 39

Free cancellation available

Cruises & boat tours

See all 35 activities

Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

Free cancellation available

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