It's not a long hike (about 0.2 miles) from the parking down to the beach, but it is quite the ascent back up. It's a beautiful beach though. We visited during the winter, so there were only 3 other people on the whole beach. It was quiet and peaceful though, not crowded and busy (but we were clearly there during off season). Unfortunately it was a foggy day so I don't know just what sort of view it normally has, but it seemed like it would normally be beautiful, and was enjoyable despite the fog.

We've visited SF many times over the past 30 years - My dad was stationed at Presidio back in the late '80's so I've seen most of the cool stuff. Been coming to the Marin Headlands for 25 & this was the 1st walk down to Black Sands Beach -- Totally Awesome!! The hike is easy going down ... well maintained & safe. There are a blend of trails & steps (300?) down. Remember, you gotta walk back up & that's a bit more challenging. Beautiful flowers & fauna all around. The smell of the salty ocean & the surrounding plants is a wonderful sensation. Accessing the beach is a little tricky. Wooden steps are in place & sturdy but the last few steps are big ... difficult for a small child or older folks but not a huge obstacle. The beach isn't sand at all but tiny rocks that have been tumbled by the ocean over the many years giving them all rounded edges & shapes. There were only 3 people on the entire beach while we were there ... a couple enjoying some wine & a gal reading a book while smoking cigs taking in the grand view. Definitely worth the extra effort to check out this site!!

A very cool beach with dark brown/black sand. The beach is secluded and only accessed via a one way road and a quarter mile hike. The hike is mostly wooden stairs embedded in the trail so it isn't the easiest beach to access. However, the beach is fairly large and has enough room for multiple groups. The beach has south facing views towards West San Francisco and is worth a visit.

Long way done for the record, the water can get 🥶, nice sunset to view, warnings no walking towards the area because there is a trench and it’s an instant drop so keep your distance. Sand looks nice though Highly recommend to view.

Was amazing. The path down to the beach is a journey on its own.

fabulously beautiful . surprisingly calm sunny. The descent to the beach is not enough for everyone. takes 7-10 minutes. a lot of bare buttocks. black sand.

The hike that takes you to the beach is steep and uneven at some places. But it gives one of the best views. The beach is covered with black sand (hence the name).

As of August 7, 2017, the trail to the beach from Upper Fisherman's Parking is somewhat treacherous, hence its closure. But if you ignore the sign and are willing to risk your life and limb, the beach is worth it.