Alcatraz? That’s old news. Well, unless it really does reopen…
But there’s another San Francisco island that tourists tend to overlook. No, it’s not the charming urban island of Alameda with its secret beaches and top-notch breweries.
This island takes a ride on the wild side, boasting stunning nature with unmatched views of San Fran’s vibrant skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge backdropped by rolling hills, and few tourists in the way of sprawling open waters, the State of California is tooting their own horn by showcasing this lush state park as one of the state’s most beautiful fall hidden gems.
While most quintessential fall travelers are cozied up in a cafe with a PSL in hand, this under-hyped island provides an easy escape from the urban jungle in one of America’s most renowned cities.
Welcome To Angel Island State Park
Tucked away from the chaos of San Francisco’s busy streets and the zombie land of the notorious Tenderloin district lies The Bay’s best-kept secret for a truly tranquil day trip (or limited overnight stay).
Closer to the ritzy suburb of Tiburon (which translates to “Shark” given The Bay’s frequent shark sightings), tourists often skip Angel Island in favor of other excursions.
While many tourists pay a hefty toll to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge just to check it off their travel wishlist, they may not realize what they’re seeing to the East as they cross.
Angel Island State Park covers nearly 750 acres, the largest of San Francisco’s naturally formed islands.
Magnetized by the fame of Alcatraz, a postcard staple of San Fran, it’s time to shine a light on what Angel Island has to offer with fewer tourists and abundant scenery perfect for exploring by biking, hiking, or even kayaking — or if you want to give your legs a break, opt for the island’s tram tour.
Despite its “hidden gem” status, the historical timeline of this island is just as remarkable its unmatched views, as it was once a hunting and fishing site for Coastal Miwok Indians, and later a haven for Spanish explorers, followed by a cattle ranch, and a U.S. Army post used to process immigrants until 1940.
Day Trip Or Overnight Stay?
Full disclosure: there are no hotels on Angel Island (womp, womp!).
The good news is there is a selection of campsites you can easily reserve if you want to “rough it” to stargaze and enjoy a peaceful night of crashing waves as your soundtrack backed by San Fran’s luminous skyline in the distance.
There is a limited availability for camping, which is why it’s safe to say most visitors pack up their bikes or best walking shoes for a day trip by ferry.
Ferries depart from both aforementioned Tiburon and San Francisco, which is obviously the easier entry point for the majority of tourists.
The Golden Gate Ferry route from San Francisco departs 7 days per week from San Francisco Ferry Terminal (SFFT) and accepts the Clipper Card for better rates.
Otherwise, adult tickets are $15.50, and children aged 4 and under ride free.
Park hours are unofficially ‘sunrise to sunset’, so your perfect sunset picnic will have to wrap up quickly!
Entry & Restrictions
In typical California fashion (take it from me as a resident), there’s always a hiccup somewhere…
Let’s start with some restrictions every visitor should know about for their upcoming trip, shall we?
On the bright side, most tourists won’t depart from Tiburon — but if you’re one of the few, prepare to work around November 3 – November 30 as the ferry will be off-limits for repairs.
While you probably don’t want to go for a swim in chilly waters anyway, the park notes China Cove Beach is currently drenched with an oil spill, so it’s not recommended to go fishing either.
It’s also mentioned that the elevator at the Detention Barracks Museum is temporarily out of order (who didn’t pay the electric bill?!).
Lastly, as fun as it would be to bring Fido along, 4 legs aren’t allowed here unless it’s a service animal.
To enter the park, admission is only $3 for adults and $2 for kids older than age 5, but the following passes are also accepted:
California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass
Golden Poppy Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass
Disabled Discount Pass
Distinguished Veteran Pass
Golden Bear Pass
Senior Golden Bear Pass
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