Thinking about planespotting san francisco? It’s a great way to see some amazing aircraft. SFO sees a lot of action, with major airlines and international flights. If you’re new to the area or just looking for new vantage points, there are a few spots that are pretty well-known among enthusiasts. You’ll want to know where to go and what the rules are, so you can have a good time without any issues. Let’s check out some of the best places to watch the planes.
Key Takeaways
- Bayfront Park and Waterfront are top spots for watching 28L arrivals, with parking available.
- Anza Fisherman’s Park is recommended for its clearer views and less heat haze, especially with longer lenses.
- Observation decks are available on Terminal 2 (pre-security) and Terminal 3 (post-security), but they are behind glass.
- Access to certain areas like the Westfield Garage for photography is no longer permitted by the airport.
- Plane spotters may need to apply for a permit to access SFO airport property for spotting activities.
1. Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park is a pretty solid spot if you’re looking to catch planes coming in on runways 1L and 1R. It’s right by the airport, and honestly, the views are pretty unobstructed. You can see planes taxiing, taking off, and landing without much hassle. It’s a free park, which is always a plus, and there’s some seating available.
How to Get There
To get to Bayfront Park, you’ll want to take the Millbrae Ave exit off US-101 and head east. Millbrae Ave will eventually end at Old Bayshore Highway, and the park is right there. You can turn right onto Old Bayshore Highway to find a small, free public parking lot. It’s located at the north end of the Marriott’s lot. If that lot is full, try looking for street parking on Cowan Road across the street. The park itself is located at 1820 Old Bayshore Highway, Millbrae, California.
Best Viewing Spots
For arrivals on Runway 01, head to the far north end of the park. From the parking lot, just walk along the path towards the airport. You’ll find benches there. There are also benches right by the parking lot, which are actually better for seeing traffic on Runway 28.
Important Note
When you’re at the park, please stick to the paths and the paved areas. Don’t wander into the swampy or grassy sections for a closer look. You could get warned by the police, and it might ruin the spot for other photographers.
Alternative Evening Spot
If you’re planning to spot in the evening, the fishing area nearby closes around 5 or 6 pm. For later viewing, try the end of Bay View Place. Head north towards the airport until you reach the first street, Bay View Place, and turn right. Go to the end, into the restaurant parking lot. There’s also a dirt lot if the main one is full. The view from here is a bit further from the aircraft compared to the fishing area, but it works for evening shots. You can also try to catch a shuttle bus to the Westin or Marriott hotels, and walk from the international terminal, which should take about 30 minutes.
Parking Information
There are about 10-15 free parking spots available at Bayfront Park. The rest of the parking is associated with the Marriott hotel, which charges a fee. Several hotels are located right next to the park, which can be convenient.
Plane Spotting Tips
- Best Time: Generally, mornings are good for arrivals on 1L/1R, while afternoons can be better for departures.
- Equipment: A camera with a decent zoom lens is recommended to get clear shots of the aircraft.
- Comfort: Bring a chair or blanket if you plan to stay for a while, as seating can be limited.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast; it can get windy and foggy near the bay.
Nearby Locations
- Anza Fisherman’s Park: This spot is a bit further south and offers a different perspective, especially for arrivals.
- Westfield Garage: While not directly at the airport, the rooftop of the Westfield mall in San Francisco can offer distant views of aircraft, though it’s a much longer shot. Westfield Garage Access
2. Anza Fisherman’s Park
Anza Fisherman’s Park
This spot is a bit of a drive from the main airport terminals, so having a car is pretty much a must. You’ll want to take Highway 101 North and use the Broadway exit, then head onto Airport Blvd. Keep going along the water until you see the park entrance on your left. Parking is free, which is always a plus. If you don’t have a car, you might be able to catch an airport hotel shuttle to get you close, but it’s not guaranteed.
The main draw here is getting shots of arrivals on Runway 28L. It’s a good place for those full-frame approach shots, especially if you have a decent zoom lens, like a 300mm or 500mm. The lighting is pretty good from around noon until sunset, making it great for those late afternoon and golden hour photos. You can also see the airport itself from here, which is kind of neat.
One thing to keep in mind is that the fishing area itself closes pretty early, usually around 5 or 6 PM. If you’re planning on staying for evening arrivals, you’ll need to find an alternative spot. A lot of people suggest heading north on Bay View Place to the end of the road, where there’s a restaurant parking lot. There’s also a dirt lot nearby if the main one is full. The downside is that the shore there is a bit further from the aircraft compared to the fishing park.
- Best for: Runway 28L arrivals.
- Lens recommendation: 300mm-500mm for full-frame approach shots.
- Lighting: Good from noon to sunset.
- Pro Tip: Less heat haze compared to other spots, offering great side and parallel arrival shots.
Be aware that the fishing area has an early closing time. For evening spotting, consider the alternative location at the end of Bay View Place.
If you’re looking for a good place to get those close-up shots of planes landing on 28L, Anza Fisherman’s Park is definitely worth checking out. Just remember to plan your timing around the park’s closing hours if you want to catch the evening action. It’s a solid option for plane spotting at SFO, especially if you’ve got the right gear. You can find more details about this location on the Anza Lagoon spotting guide.
3. Terminal 2 Observation Deck
The Terminal 2 Observation Deck is a great spot for planespotting right at SFO. It’s located on the second floor of the terminal and offers some pretty good views. You don’t even need a boarding pass to get in, which is a nice bonus. The seating is comfortable, and there are restrooms nearby, making it a convenient place to spend some time watching the action.
The main drawback is that the views are primarily to the south. This means you might miss most landings on Runway 17R, only catching the tail end of the roll-out. However, when aircraft use Runways 34L or 34R, which happens more often in the winter months, the views are excellent. You’ll get a good look at planes as they taxi and park.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Location: Second floor of Terminal 2
- Access: Open to the public (no ticket needed)
- Amenities: Comfortable seating, restrooms
- Best for: Watching aircraft taxiing and parking, viewing landings on 34L/34R
While the original observation deck from 1954 is gone, this newer space provides a decent alternative for airport enthusiasts. It’s a good place to get a feel for the airport’s operations without leaving the main terminal area. For more general information about navigating SFO, check out this SFO airport guide.
It’s worth noting that this spot is behind glass, so you won’t get the open-air experience. Still, for a convenient and accessible viewing area within the airport, the Terminal 2 Observation Deck is a solid choice.
4. Terminal 3 Observation Deck
If you’re looking for a spot that’s right in the thick of things, the Terminal 3 Observation Deck is a good bet. It’s an outdoor terrace located in Terminal 3, specifically in boarding area G. Keep in mind, though, that this spot is after you’ve gone through security. Once you’re inside, head to the very end of the concourse, and you’ll find the terrace. The main drawback here is that it’s behind glass, which can make photography a bit tricky, but you still get a decent view of ramp movements. It’s a convenient option if you’re already at the airport and have some time to kill before your flight.
Access and Viewing
- Located in Terminal 3, boarding area G.
- Accessible only after passing through airport security.
- Features an outdoor terrace area.
While the glass can be a bit of a bother for photographers, the proximity to the action on the tarmac makes it a worthwhile stop for any plane enthusiast. You can often see ground crews working and planes taxiing.
What to Expect
- Views of ramp movements and aircraft.
- Seating might be available, but it’s not guaranteed.
- The glass enclosure means you’ll be looking through windows, which can affect photo quality.
5. Waterfront/Bayfront Park
Waterfront/Bayfront Park is a really popular spot for planespotters, especially if you want to catch arrivals on Runway 28L. It’s pretty easy to get to. Just take the Millbrae Ave exit off US-101 and head east. Millbrae Ave will end at Old Bayshore Highway, and the park is right there. You can find a small, free public parking lot at the north end of the Marriott’s lot, or try finding street parking on Cowan Road if the lot is full. The Marriott itself charges for parking, so keep that in mind.
Getting to the Fishing Area
If you’re heading to the fishing area, take Old Bayshore Highway south from Bayfront Park for about 1.5 miles. The road ends at Broadway; turn left onto Airport Blvd and go another 1.5 miles. Look for the entrance to the fishing spot on your left just before the road makes a sharp right turn. Coming from 101 North, take the Peninsula Ave exit, turn left onto Airport Blvd, and then right to continue on Airport Blvd. The park will be straight ahead before Airport Blvd curves left.
Alternative for Evening Shots: Bay View Place
The fishing area usually closes around 5 or 6 pm, so for evening plane spotting, consider heading to the end of Bay View Place. Head north towards the airport until you reach the first street, Bay View Place. Turn right and go to the end, where you’ll find a restaurant parking lot. There’s also a dirt lot if the main one is full. The view from here is a bit further from the aircraft compared to the fishing area, but it’s a good option when the fishing area is closed.
Bayfront Park Specifics
Bayfront Park itself is a small public park right by the airport. It’s free to visit and has seating. You get great views of runways 1L and 1R from here. The best spot for Runway 01 traffic is at the far north end of the park. Walk along the path from the parking lot towards the airport to find benches. There are also benches right by the parking lot, which are better for seeing 28 traffic. Remember to stay on the paths and designated areas; venturing into the swamp or grassy areas can get you warned by police and might ruin the spot for others.
Important Note: Always respect the park rules and stay within marked areas. Getting too close to restricted zones can lead to warnings from law enforcement and negatively impact future spotting opportunities for everyone.
| Spot # | Runway Arrivals | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28L | Bayfront Park/Waterfront, near Millbrae Ave exit off US-101. Address for navigation: 1820 Old Bayshore Highway, Millbrae, California, USA. |
| Alternative | Evening Shots | End of Bay View Place, restaurant parking lot. |
This location is a great place to see planes, and you can even find waterfront rooms with views nearby if you want to extend your spotting trip.
6. Spotting Permit Requirements
If you plan to do some plane spotting from areas on airport property, like the parking garages or the pre-security sections of the terminals, you’ll need to get a permit. The airport requires this to help keep things safe for everyone, both spotters and operations. You have to fill out a form on the official airport website each time you want to go spotting on their grounds. It’s a good idea to check the airport’s site for the most current form and any specific instructions.
Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding the permit and spotting on airport property:
- Permit Requirement: A permit is mandatory for accessing certain airport areas for plane spotting.
- Application: You need to complete a form available on the official SFO website.
- Frequency: The permit is typically required for each visit.
- Behavior: Always stay in public, non-secure areas. Be respectful to airport staff and other travelers. Causing a disturbance could get you asked to leave.
- Security: If you see anything that seems off, report it immediately.
While the permit is generally required, sometimes local authorities might still ask you to move along, even if you have the proper documentation. It’s always best to be prepared and polite.
It’s worth noting that some previously popular spots might have changed due to construction or new security measures. For instance, areas within Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 observation decks might have different access rules or viewing limitations now. Always check the latest information before you head out.
7. Westfield Garage Access
Garage Access and Restrictions
The Westfield Garage, particularly its roof, used to be a decent spot for planespotting, offering good lighting in the afternoons. However, access to the roof isn’t generally open to the public. While the SFO Monthly Spotter Meetup has held events there in the past, recent changes have made things more complicated.
It’s worth noting that there have been reports of increased security strictness following an incident where an object was thrown from the garage roof. This has led to some spotters encountering issues when trying to access the location, even for short periods.
Be aware that security can be unpredictable at this location. While some have reported no issues, others have been asked to leave. It’s advisable to check current conditions before planning a visit.
What to Expect
- Limited Public Access: The garage roof is not typically open for public use.
- Past Meetup Location: It has been a venue for organized spotting events.
- Potential Security Issues: Increased scrutiny may be in place due to past incidents.
- Afternoon Lighting: Generally offers good light for photography during the afternoon hours.
Alternative Viewing from Garages
While the Westfield Garage roof might be tricky, other airport parking garages offer some viewing opportunities, though often with limitations. For instance, the International Terminal Parking Garages G and B offer views of ramp movements. However, the AirTrain station roof can obstruct the view, with only specific spots on levels like G8 providing a limited sightline to the ramps. It’s also important to know that some areas, like Garage A, have had screens installed over wire fences, blocking photo opportunities. For those looking for a different perspective, consider exploring the vibrant Union Square area, which is easily accessible via BART from SFO.
8. SFO Plane Spotting Events
SFO sometimes hosts special events for plane spotting enthusiasts, which is pretty cool. These events usually pop up when there’s something significant happening at the airport, like a new airline starting service or a new type of aircraft making its debut. It’s a great chance to connect with other spotters and get some unique photo opportunities. Keep an eye on the official SFO website or sign up for their newsletter to get the latest updates on any upcoming events. They usually announce dates and times well in advance, so you won’t miss out.
Upcoming Event Information
DATE: TBD
TIME: TBD
Keep checking back for more details on the next official SFO plane spotting event. It’s always a good idea to be on the lookout for announcements, especially if you’re keen on seeing specific aircraft or airlines. Signing up for the SFO newsletter is a good way to stay informed about these and other airport happenings. You can select ‘Plane Spotting Events’ as an area of interest when you sign up.
Past Event Highlights
While specific details on past events aren’t readily available, the airport has hosted gatherings in the past to celebrate milestones. These often involve special access or viewing areas, though always within security guidelines. The airport aims to make these events engaging for the aviation community. It’s worth noting that participation in these events might require prior registration or a specific permit, so always check the event details carefully when they are announced. Remember, SFO provides nonstop flights to many places, making it a busy hub for spotting.
What to Expect at an Event
- Organized viewing areas, often in designated safe spots.
- Potential for guest speakers or airport officials to share insights.
- Opportunities to meet fellow aviation fans and share spotting experiences.
- Information about the airport’s operations and future plans.
Attending an official event can offer a different perspective than solo spotting. It’s a chance to learn more about the airport and its operations directly from the source, and often includes access to areas that might not be available otherwise. Just be sure to follow all instructions given by event staff to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
9. Spotterguide.net SFO Guide
When you’re looking for detailed information on spotting at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the Spotterguide.net SFO guide is a really solid resource. It’s put together by people who know the area and what makes for good plane spotting. They cover a lot of the common questions people have when they’re planning a trip to SFO to watch planes.
What the Guide Covers
The guide usually breaks down the best places to go, like the popular Bayfront Park area. It gives directions and talks about what kind of traffic you can expect from different spots. You’ll find details on arrival and departure runway usage, which is super helpful for planning your day. They also often mention things like the best times of day for certain types of photography or viewing.
Key Information for Spotters
- Location Details: Specific addresses and directions to get to the best viewing areas.
- Runway Information: Which runways are typically in use for arrivals and departures.
- Best Times: When to go for the best light or most active traffic.
- Photography Tips: Advice tailored to the SFO environment.
It’s always a good idea to check the latest information before you head out, as airport operations and popular spotting locations can change over time. Having a good guide means you spend less time searching and more time watching planes.
Understanding SFO Spotting Rules
Spotterguide.net also touches on the important rules and regulations for plane spotters at SFO. This includes information about permits, which are often required for accessing certain areas. They’ll explain where you can and cannot be, and what kind of behavior is expected to keep everyone safe and the airport running smoothly. It’s important to be aware of these guidelines so you don’t run into any trouble.
10. SFO Airport Security Guidelines
When you’re out spotting planes at SFO, it’s important to remember that security is a big deal. The airport wants everyone to be safe, and that includes you, the spotters, and all the passengers and staff. So, there are a few rules you’ll need to follow to make sure your visit goes smoothly.
Staying in Public Areas
First off, you’ve got to stick to the public spots. This means areas that aren’t behind security checks. You can’t go into the secure zones of the terminals or any other restricted areas. Basically, if you need a boarding pass to get there, you can’t be there for spotting.
Respectful Behavior
Be cool. That’s the main thing. You need to be respectful to everyone at the airport – other spotters, travelers, and airport workers. Causing a scene or acting in a way that makes people uncomfortable could get you asked to leave. Nobody wants that, especially when you’re trying to catch a specific aircraft.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
If you see something that just doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore it. The airport has a ‘see something, say something’ policy. If you notice anything suspicious, report it right away. You can call 911.
Permit Requirements
Remember that for most spots on airport property, you’ll need a spotting permit. You have to apply for this each time you plan to visit. It’s a way for the airport to keep track of who’s around and help ensure safety. Check the official airport website for the most current information on how to get one.
Westfield Garage Access
Just a heads-up, access to the Westfield Garage for photography is no longer allowed. This is for security reasons. Stick to the public viewing areas like the SkyTerrace or Bayfront Park instead.
Wrapping Up Your SFO Spotting Adventure
@sfjetz San Francisco Planespotting ✈️ #sunset #plane #planes #planespotting #planespotter #planespotters #landing #takeoff #aviation #avgeek #avgeeks ♬ original sound – SF.Jetz
So, there you have it – a few good spots to check out if you’re looking to watch planes at San Francisco International. It can be a bit tricky with the airport’s layout, but with a little planning, you can get some great views. Remember to check the airport’s rules about permits and where you can go. Whether you’re aiming for a specific aircraft or just enjoying the busy skies, SFO offers a lot for plane spotters. Happy spotting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a good place to watch planes at SFO?
Bayfront Park is a top spot for watching planes land on Runway 28L. To get there, take Highway 101 to the Millbrae Ave exit and head east. Turn right onto Old Bayshore Highway, and the park will be on your left after about half a mile. There’s some free parking, and hotels nearby often have parking too.
Are there other good spots besides Bayfront Park?
Anza Fisherman’s Park is another great location, especially if you have a zoom lens. It’s known for less heat haze and offers good side and parallel views of arriving planes. It’s best in the afternoon, and after the park closes, you can park along the road outside the gate.
Can I watch planes from inside the airport terminals?
Yes, SFO has observation decks on top of Terminal 2 (before security) and Terminal 3 (after security). Both offer views through glass, so they’re good options even if the weather isn’t perfect.
Do I need a permit to watch planes at SFO?
To plane spot on airport property, like parking garages or areas before security, you’ll need a permit. You have to fill out a form each time you plan to visit for spotting. This is for safety and security.
Does SFO ever have plane spotting events?
SFO sometimes holds special plane spotting events, especially when new airlines or aircraft types start flying. Keep an eye on their announcements for details about upcoming events.
What are the rules for plane spotting at SFO?
You need to stay in public areas and be respectful. Don’t go into secure zones. Also, SFO no longer allows access to the Westfield Garage for photography. If you see anything suspicious, report it immediately by calling 911.
