Where to watch 4th of July fireworks in San Francisco

Head bayside and stake out a spot along Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, Crissy Field, Pier 39 or the Marina Green to catch San Francisco's annual fireworks extravaganza.

Treasure Island, located right in-between San Francisco and the East Bay, is a perfect place to take in panoramic views of fireworks shooting off over the city and the Bay. You should be able to see the show in all its glory, without the crowds at Fisherman's Wharf. Warning: traffic on the Bay Bridge will probably be intense, so plan to leave early to give yourself time. Bring chairs or blankets to put down on the Great Lawn.

Get on the Bay and under the action with a Blue & Gold Fleet fireworks cruise. The July 4th cruises depart from Pier 39, Pier 41 and Tiburon from 8:15pm to 8:40pm, guaranteeing front row seats for the City's spectacular fireworks show. General admission is $95, youth ages 5-11 are $85 and kids under 5 are free. 

While there's no grassy area to put a chair or blanket down on, if you're good with standing, this is a great spot for firework-viewing. Pro Tip: grab dinner and drinks in the Ferry Building before heading over. 

This is another solid waterfront option for firework viewing — just make sure to show up early, given this is a tourist spot, so that you can find a spot to sit.  

Set up a picnic blanket along the beach or grassy area along Crissy Field to get stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and fireworks in both directions. while there's plenty of room, it's still a good idea to arrive early to stake out a spot.  

This park offers 360-degree views of the Bay, downtown, the Golden Gate Bridge, the East Bay and San Bruno mountain. There will mostly be local neighborhood folks here, and it will be a much more relaxed vibe than along the water. Just make sure to bring a jacket and mentally prepare for the possibility that fog may sweep in to make the fireworks a little fuzzy.