San Francisco's

Mission Bay

Neighborhood Guide

What's it like to live in Mission Bay, San Francisco?

Mission Bay is a lively, waterfront neighborhood in San Francisco that offers a unique blend of modern living and natural beauty. This area is home to a variety of upscale condominiums and apartments, many of which offer stunning views of the bay. The neighborhood is also known for its green spaces, including the popular Mission Creek Park, where residents can enjoy kayaking or a leisurely stroll along the water. Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options here, from the fresh seafood at the renowned Mission Rock Resort to the artisanal coffee at Philz Coffee. Mission Bay also boasts a number of high-end shopping destinations and is conveniently located near the Caltrain and Muni Metro for easy commuting. With its mix of urban amenities and scenic beauty, Mission Bay offers a unique and appealing lifestyle.

Insights from Mission Bay locals

Zach Bowman with Gott’s Roadside, a local eatery – “Mission Bay has become a vibrant hub of waterfront views and green space next door to live music and world-class sporting events. You can’t beat a morning spent at the Thrive City farmers market followed by a Philz Coffee or beer from Harmonic Brewing.”

Rachel Rapaport with Stagecoach Greens, an outdoor mini golf course – “Spark Social is an only-in-San Francisco outdoor community hub/food truck round-up in an experimental park design. It features 20+ permanent visiting food trucks with all kinds of cuisine, a beer garden, and various seating areas, from a two-story view bus to fire pits with gliders. It’s such a perk for those of us who live and work in Mission Bay!”

Jesse Stewart, communications coordinator for 826 Valencia, a “nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting under-resourced students with their writing skills” – “One of 828 Valencia’s Writing Centers is located right in the heart of Mission Bay, just a few steps from Spark Social which is an amazing place to connect with the community.”

What is the housing market like in Mission Bay, San Francisco?

Median Sale Price

$1,012,500

Median Rental Price

$4,207

Interested in moving to the area?

What’s the best way to get around Mission Bay, San Francisco?

Mission Bay is a highly walkable neighborhood with numerous amenities within easy reach, making it convenient for residents to get around on foot or by bike. It also boasts excellent public transportation routes, although parking can be challenging due to the area’s popularity.

someone biking in front of Gus's community market in the mission bay neighborhood of san francisco

exterior view of chase center in the mission bay neighborhood of san francisco

interior of tech store with floor to ceiling windows in mission bay san francisco

street in mission bay district san francisco

Things to do & see

Oracle Park: Home to the San Francisco Giants, Oracle Park offers a stunning view of the San Francisco Bay and is a must-visit for baseball fans.

UCSF Mission Bay: This sprawling campus of the University of California, San Francisco, is a hub of medical research and education, with state-of-the-art facilities and beautiful modern architecture.

Spark Social SF: A dynamic food truck park, beer & sangria garden, and event space that brings the neighborhood together with a rotating lineup of culinary curiosities.

Chase Center: This is the home of the Golden State Warriors and a venue for top-tier concerts and events, offering a state-of-the-art entertainment experience.

Bay Front Park: A beautiful park located right on the water, offering stunning views of the bay, walking paths, and picnic areas.

Where to eat & drink

STEM Kitchen & Garden: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu of Mediterranean dishes, with a beautiful outdoor garden for dining.

SPARK Social SF: A unique food truck park and beer garden offering a rotating lineup of San Francisco’s best food trucks, craft beer, and wine.

Philz Coffee: A popular coffee shop chain known for its custom blends, Philz Coffee in Mission Bay is a favorite among locals for its cozy atmosphere and quality brews.

Gus’s Community Market: More than just a grocery store, Gus’s Community Market also has a deli, bakery, and café, making it a one-stop-shop for food lovers.

Parklab Gardens: A vibrant outdoor space featuring food trucks, a beer garden, and a variety of recreational activities, making it a perfect spot for a casual hangout.

Living in Mission Bay, San Francisco FAQs

Where is Mission Bay located in San Francisco?

Mission Bay is located in the eastern part of San Francisco, bordered by the San Francisco Bay to the east, South of Market to the west, and Dogpatch to the south.

Is Mission Bay a good neighborhood in San Francisco?

Mission Bay is a vibrant neighborhood with a plethora of recreational activities. The area is known for its beautiful parks, including the expansive Mission Bay Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, picnicking, and water sports. The neighborhood is also home to several high-tech companies, making it a hub for innovation. On the flip side, the cost of living in Mission Bay is relatively high, with housing prices significantly above the national average. Additionally, traffic can be quite heavy during peak hours, which could be a concern for daily commuters.

What is Mission Bay, San Francisco known for?

Mission Bay is known for its vibrant waterfront lifestyle, with a plethora of recreational activities and stunning views of the bay. The neighborhood is characterized by its modern architecture, numerous parks, and a thriving biotech industry. It’s a bustling area with a lively atmosphere, filled with restaurants, shopping centers, and sports venues.

How far is Mission Bay from downtown San Francisco?

Mission Bay is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of San Francisco, just a few miles away from the bustling downtown area.

How should I spend a day in Mission Bay, San Francisco?

Start your day in Mission Bay by exploring the stunning waterfront at Mission Bay Park, where you can rent a paddleboard or kayak to enjoy the calm waters. After working up an appetite, head over to the bustling Liberty Public Market for a variety of food options from local vendors. End your day with a concert or basketball game at the state-of-the-art Chase Center, home of the Golden State Warriors.