Can't say for sure if that is a heat haze, but I wouldn't be surprised if heat adds to the effect. SF Bay is an urban area, that has a fair amount of smog. In addition, the temperature over the land and water can vary quite a bit. Finally, late afternoon lighting like this, will enhance any haze in the air.

I like the repeated horizontal lines in this shot. The birds in the foreground add activity/movement in the shot. It is interesting to note how the light bounces off the water varies considerably if it is standing water or the water on the bay.