Bernal Heights

Known for its bohemian flair, Bernal Heights is a patchwork of steep and narrow streets and more than a few hidden staircases, slides, and parks. Located in the southern portion of the Mission Valley, this hilltop neighborhood is accessible via the 67 Bernal Heights and 24 Divisadero buses and the 24th & Mission BART station. It lies south of Mission District and Noe Valley and is bordered by Bayview-Hunters Point to the east, Glen Park to the west, and Excelsior and Portola to the south. The neighborhood was originally part of a Mexican land grant before being subdivided in the 1860s and gets its name from Jose Cornelio de Bernal, who was the recipient of the Mexican land grant.

Real Estate Snapshot

The housing market offers primarily single-family homes with two to three stories. The most desirable properties have viewing decks and backyards. Prevalent architectural styles include Victorian and Contemporary. The construction of multi-family homes has been severely limited due to strict height restrictions in the area.

Top attractions

• Bernal Heights Park spans 26 acres on a hilltop with serene hiking trails and sweeping views of the Bay It also features an off-leash area, making it a popular recreation spot for pet owners.
• Precita Park is a picnic area encompassing three blocks and is known for hosting outdoor film screenings.
• Holly Park features a gated playground, baseball field, basketball court, tennis courts, picnic tables, BBǪ grills, and a grove of Eucalyptus trees.
• Esmeralda Slide Park features a pair of side-by-side metal slides where guests can slide down on cardboards that can be found in recycling bins at the top of the slides.
• Saint Mary’s Playground features a large children’s playground.
• Cortland Avenue is a commercial strip that bisects the neighborhood and is lined with small grocers, coffee shops, restaurants, and beauty salons.
• Alemany Farmers Market, also called the People’s Market, has been serving the community since 1943 and offers a wide assortment of locally sourced produce and food products.
• Harvest Hills Market is a boutique grocery store that has been selling fresh produce, baked goods, wine, craft beer, natural and organic foods, and other quality products for over 100
• Bernal Heights Hill-Wide Garage Sale is an annual sale that takes place every August with an eclectic mix of used items, upcycled goods, collectibles, and artworks.
• Fiesta on the Hill is an annual street fair that typically features a parade, petting zoo, pony rides, live music, art activities, and vendors selling snacks and drinks.
• Bernal Heights Outdoor Cinema traditionally takes place every September and October with free screening featuring the works of local filmmakers.