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Bernal Heights is a charming residential neighborhood perched on a hill in the southern part of San Francisco. With its village-like atmosphere, an abundance of parks (check out these Bernal Heights dog parks), green spaces, and convenient access to transportation, Bernal Heights is a highly desirable place to call home. In this blog, we’ll explore the various transportation options available in Bernal Heights and how they make it easy to get around the neighborhood and the rest of the city.
Public Transportation in Bernal Heights
One of the best things about living in Bernal Heights is the convenient access to public transportation. The neighborhood is well-served by several Muni bus lines, including:
- 24-Divisadero: Runs along Cortland Avenue through the heart of Bernal Heights
- 23-Monterey: Runs along the southern edge of Bernal Heights
- 67-Bernal Heights: Loops through much of the neighborhood
- 14-Mission and 49-Van Ness/Mission: Run along Mission Street on the western edge of Bernal
These bus lines provide easy connections to other parts of the city, including the 24th Street Mission BART station which provides quick access to downtown San Francisco, the East Bay, and the Peninsula.
Tech Shuttles in Bernal Heights
In addition to public transit, Bernal Heights is also a popular spot for tech shuttle buses that transport employees from San Francisco to Silicon Valley. Companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, Yahoo, and Genentech all have shuttle routes with stops along the edges of Bernal Heights, especially on Cesar Chavez Street.
Living close to the tech shuttle stops is a major selling point for many homes in Bernal Heights, as it provides a convenient way for tech workers to commute to their jobs in the South Bay without having to drive. However, the proliferation of these private shuttles has also led to some controversy in the neighborhood.
Driving and Freeways Near Bernal Heights
For those who prefer to (or must) drive, Bernal Heights offers relatively quick access to freeways compared to other San Francisco neighborhoods. Highway 101 and I-280 are just a short drive away, connecting Bernal Heights to the rest of the city and the Peninsula.
However, parking can be a challenge in Bernal Heights, especially along the main Cortland Avenue corridor. Many homes in the neighborhood don't have garages or dedicated parking spaces, so street parking is often the only option.
Cortland Avenue: Bernal Heights' Business Corridor
Cortland Avenue serves as the main commercial thoroughfare in Bernal Heights, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and local businesses. Some highlights include:
- Good Life Grocery for organic groceries
- Progressive Grounds and Pinhole Coffee for a caffeine fix
- Restaurants like Little Nepal, 3rd Cousin, and Vega Pizza
- Succulence and Bernal Beast for gifts and pet supplies
- Bernal Branch Library
With the amenities concentrated on Cortland, many residents find they can take care of most of their daily needs without venturing far from the neighborhood. It's like a small town within the big city.
North Slope Bernal Heights
The North Slope of Bernal Heights is a unique and highly coveted part of the neighborhood. Perched on the northern side of Bernal Hill, this area boasts some of the most stunning views in all of San Francisco, with many homes offering panoramic vistas of the downtown skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the East Bay hills.
The North Slope is also known for its excellent transportation options. The 24th Street Mission BART station is just a short jaunt north, providing quick access to downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. Many tech shuttle stops are located along the edges of Bernal Heights, making commuting to Silicon Valley a breeze for residents of the North Slope. The North Slope offers easy access to the 101 and 280 freeways too.
At the foot of Benral’s North Slope lies the charming Precita Park, a popular gathering spot featuring a playground, butterfly garden, and off-leash dog area. With its winning combination of jaw-dropping views, convenient commuting options, and the lovely Precita Park, it's no wonder the North Slope is one of the most desirable places to call home in Bernal Heights.
Exploring Bernal Heights on Foot
Another option, if it’s accessible to you, is exploring Bernal Heights on foot! The neighborhood is very walkable, with a network of staircases, hidden paths, and lovely parks like Bernal Heights Park, Precita Park, and Holly Park. Climbing to the top of Bernal Hill offers stunning 360-degree views of San Francisco and the Bay.
Living in Bernal Heights
As a top San Francisco real estate agent who has helped ~200 clients buy and sell homes in Bernal Heights, Danielle Lazier, and our entire team can attest to the neighborhood's welcoming presence and great amenities. The lovely sense of community, small-town vibe, convenient transportation options, and beautiful setting make Bernal Heights a wonderful place to call home.
If you're interested in learning more about Bernal Heights real estate, buying a home in the neighborhood, or connecting with an experienced local realtor, please don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to share our passion for Bernal Heights with you and help you find your dream home in this very special corner of San Francisco. Contact us today.
