Deriving its name from its location just near the west entrance of the Twin Peaks Tunnel as well as its main street (West Portal Avenue), West Portal is a small neighborhood sitting near the south of San Francisco’s interior hills. Though it neighbors the Forest Hill, St. Francis Wood and Parkside neighborhoods, West Portal maintains a uniquely village-like feel, with many small businesses and family owned shops lining the streets.

The residential parts of West Portal are similar to some of the surrounding neighborhoods in that the homes are often detached though many have small yards. The area is kept green most of the year due to the fog that often hangs over West Portal.