The glorious entrance to San Francisco Bay is defined by breathtaking vistas as well as the majesty of San Francisco's most beloved icon – the Golden Gate Bridge. In fact, the Presidio was founded as a military post largely to lay claim to the priceless port. When visiting the Golden Gate region, you can explore all the ways that the Presidio served as "defender of the gate" across the decades, from the cannon at Fort Point​ to the coastal gun batteries that protected the coastline in wartime. And everywhere you go you will be awed by views, views, views. With beautiful beaches and rugged hikes that will make you feel like you are a world away from the city, the Golden Gate region is an inspiring destination.​