The Marina So close you might even be able to hear the sailors’ shouts.

By Boat Marshals will tell you where you can and can’t position your craft.

The Golden Gate Bridge Watch from the eastern sidewalk. Remember, no dogs, skateboards, rollerblades, or scooters.

Alcatraz Buy your ferry tickets in advance, and take care not to trample sensitive wildlife areas on the island.

Treasure Island The west side of the island promises clear but distant views and an excellent line 
of sight to the finish line.

Fisherman’s Wharf Expect the area’s carnival-like atmosphere to go into overdrive.

On the Roof Find a high perch in the northeastern part of the city, like Telegraph Hill or Russian Hill.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Races will kick off in the early afternoons. The start line will be on the bay side of the Golden Gate Bridge. At the signal, teams will scream east at 30 to 35 miles per hour to Fisherman’s Wharf, tack back upwind to Crissy Field, and complete the course again before crashing toward the finish line near the bottom of Lombard Street.

Viewers can watch the races from city and island shorelines, spectator boats, or further afield in the Marin Headlands with the aid of binoculars, as well as commentary and action shots streamed live through iPads, smart phones, and TV sets. Wherever you watch, transit officials have a clear message for you: Leave the car at home. Shuttles, additional bus and train services, and bike-sharing programs are planned to help everybody get around while avoiding traffic gridlock. And don’t forget: The October races coincide with Fleet Week celebrations, when San Francisco is packed.

This article was published in 7x7's July/August issue. Click here to subscribe.