If you’re going to San Francisco, you’d better do two things: One, wear flowers in your hair. Two, walk through the Pacific Heights neighborhood. This is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. b.patisserie is my go-to starting point — for a walk, and for food. Try any croissant-based pastry…but also, really anything. I used to sing the praises of the Tartine croissant…but this one gives a serious run for the money.

After you’ve patiently waited in line and secured your box of pastries, tuck them gently into the trunk of your car (but keep a communion croissant in your backpack). It’s time to wander Pacific Heights!

I’ve taken my little walking tour a couple times and can say that any way you do it is going to be dandy. Just make sure to go to these locations:

• Alta Plaza Park (great city views, but without the industrial, serious vibe of the Financial District).
• Walk Clay, Baker, and Pacific streets/avenues for some truly spectacular (and spectacularly gargantuan) homes + bay views. Stroll down Divisadero and in a couple blocks you’ll be back where you started.
• Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line in the Presidio. I DID NOT realize how close it was to this part of Pacific Heights! You can dip into the park from a side gate and be there in a few minutes.
• The Lyon Street steps. I don’t recommend the steps themselves, but they’re a great scenic starting point.

There you have it — my little walking tour of Pacific Heights. I hope you go and enjoy all the lovely things there are to discover…here’s what I found.

I am a San Francisco Bay Area film photographer specialising in senior girls, families, love stories, and (personal) brands. Want to work together? Get in touch! I’d love to know your story.