This isn't the type of spot where you plop down a couple of lawn chairs and crack open a beer, but it will have an amazing view of the fireworks that are set off from the foot of the Municipal Pier and from barges north of Pier 39.

There's a volcanic rock that's approximately 11 million years old in the middle of a residential neighborhood in the Berkeley Hills. When you climb to the top of it, you get an unobstructed view of the Bay Area and the fireworks in the sky.

This Crissy Field picnic area is great for large groups who want to make a day of it. There are picnic tables and a large lawn to sprawl out on for the show. From here the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and Angel Island is breathtaking.

If you're looking to get your romance on, drive up to the top of Twin Peaks. Bring a blanket. The location will provide (Karl permitting) views of not just San Francisco's fireworks, but also Berkeley's and Sausalito's bombastic fiery displays.

This small patch of grass in Tiburon will provide choice views of the fireworks. Grab a blanket and a cooler, and head over early—this particular spot fills up fast.

Stake out a spot on the grassy area next to the Aquatic Park. Since this is a tourist destination, we suggest showing up early if you want to nab a sweet view.

From noon to 10 p.m., the Berkeley Marina throws an all-day event with a giant slide, dragon boat rowing, pony rides, a bounce house, crafts, face painting, and food trucks. Mini-train rides and water bubble balls will also be on hand. At 9:35, fireworks will go off from a barge south of the Berkeley Pier.

If hiking is your thing, we suggest making the trek up to Coit Tower for the fireworks show, as we're sure the parking lot will be filled up well before dusk.

If you can stomach some bridge traffic and some powerful night winds, head over to Treasure Island. The island's west side has plenty of lawn for you to cozy up on and watch the fireworks from afar.

Ferries depart from Tiburon and SF. Tickets are $73 for adults and $52 for kids (ages 5-11).

Panoramic views of the bay make SFAI the perfect place to chill out and watch the fireworks this 4th of July. As some of you may know, winds on the roof terrace can be strong, so make sure to layer up.

If you want a low-key outing and don't mind a faraway, zoomed-out view of the action, head on up to Bernal Heights Park. The crowd will be more neighborhoody and chill than anything happening on the waterfront. All the usual advice about blankets and flashlights applies—and be careful picking your way down those narrow paths if you've had a few.

Alameda’s own floating arsenal of Americana has a view of San Francisco like no other from its deck. In fact, the celebration on board begins at 2 p.m. this year and lasts well into the night, making the fireworks a captivating finale to the festivities.