Vista Point view of Golden Gate Bridge

Vista Point will be the first exit clearly marked "Vista Point" after you've crossed the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. Once pulled into the parking lot you'll see a stone wall perimeter leading to expansive views of the bay - on the far right side of the wall is where I took the featured image.

This view is epic year-round, but if you want a good chance at fog then shoot for June-September.

The light is most dramatic on the towers late-afternoon through sunset, casting large shadows across the bridge. Be prepared for big crowds, this is a major attraction!

I used a 24-70mm lens and zoomed 53mm to achieve this isolated view of the bridge.

Try incorporating a foreground subject to lead the viewer's eye into the bridge and create depth.

If you're visiting on a foggy day and the bridge is covered in fog, remain patient! This photo was taken after 45 minutes of waiting for the fog to partially clear.

Take a drive through the Marin Headlands right next door where there's no shortage of epic vistas and beaches!

Visit nearby seaside city Sausalito for awesome meals at Sushi Ran or Cibo.