Discover the Enigmatic Alcatraz Island
Explore the historic Alcatraz Island, home to the notorious federal prison and a stunning natural landscape in San Francisco Bay.
Alcatraz Island, a historic landmark in San Francisco Bay, invites tourists to explore its rich past as a notorious federal prison and its stunning natural beauty. A visit promises intriguing stories, breathtaking views, and a chance to walk the same halls as infamous criminals.
A brief summary to Alcatraz Island
- San Francisco, California, 94133, US
- +1415-561-4900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot, as they often sell out, especially in summer.
- Dress in layers; the weather can change rapidly on the island, and it often gets windy and cool.
- Consider taking the night tour for a unique perspective of the island, complete with breathtaking views and special programs.
- Bring a camera; the photo opportunities, especially of the Golden Gate Bridge, are spectacular.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours on the island to fully enjoy the tours and explore the grounds.
Getting There
-
Bus
From San Lorenzo, walk to the nearest bus stop on Hesperian Blvd. Once there, take the AC Transit bus line 86 towards 'Hayward BART'. Ride for about 10 minutes until you reach the Hayward BART station. From Hayward BART, purchase a ticket to Embarcadero station in San Francisco. After a train ride of about 40 minutes, disembark at Embarcadero station.
-
BART Train
Once at Embarcadero station, exit the station and walk towards the Ferry Building. From there, look for the ferry terminal and board the ferry to Alcatraz Island. Ensure you have purchased your ticket for the Alcatraz tour in advance online or at the terminal.
-
Ferry
Enjoy the scenic ferry ride to Alcatraz Island which takes about 15 minutes. Upon arrival, follow the signs to the visitor center where you can start your tour of the historic site.
Discover more about Alcatraz Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alcatraz Lighthouse
0.1 km
Discover the historic Alcatraz Lighthouse, a maritime beacon with stunning views and rich history, nestled in the heart of San Francisco Bay.
Eureka Steamboat
2.0 km
Explore the historic Eureka Steamboat in San Francisco, a symbol of maritime heritage and a fascinating tourist attraction on the Bay.
C.A. Thayer
2.0 km
Discover the C.A. Thayer, a historic wooden schooner in San Francisco, offering a deep dive into maritime history and the legacy of seafaring.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
2.1 km
Explore the rich maritime history of San Francisco at the 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark, a key attraction in the Maritime National Historical Park.
Black Point
2.1 km
Experience the historical allure and stunning vistas of Black Point, a premier tourist attraction in San Francisco's Fort Mason.
2905 Hyde St
2.1 km
Experience the historic charm of 2905 Hyde St in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf, where stunning views and rich maritime history await.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
2.1 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
Fisherman's Wharf
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf, where fresh seafood, historic attractions, and lively entertainment await in San Francisco.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
2.2 km
Discover the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf Sign, a historical landmark in San Francisco that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant waterfront culture.
Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
2.2 km
Discover the rich history at the home of John C. Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont in San Francisco, a landmark that tells stories of adventure and legacy.
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
2.2 km
Explore the historical significance of California Historical Landmark 236, the first ship's entry point to San Francisco Bay, with stunning scenic views.
Black Point Historic Gardens
2.2 km
Explore the beauty and history of Black Point Historic Gardens, a serene urban oasis in San Francisco, perfect for relaxation and discovery.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
2.3 km
Discover the maritime heritage of San Francisco at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, featuring historic ships, stunning views, and educational exhibits.
Maritime Museum
2.3 km
Discover San Francisco's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, a fascinating journey through nautical history with stunning bay views.
PIER 39
2.3 km
Experience the best of San Francisco at PIER 39, where shopping, dining, and stunning views come together in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
SS Jeremiah O'Brien
1.8 km
Discover the SS Jeremiah O'Brien, a historic Liberty Ship in San Francisco, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history and World War II.
Fishermans Wharf
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, where fresh seafood, stunning views, and lively entertainment await.
USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
2.0 km
Discover the rich history of the USS Pampanito, a World War II submarine turned museum, at San Francisco's iconic Pier 45.
Scoma's Restaurant
2.0 km
Experience the finest seafood dining in San Francisco at Scoma's Restaurant, where every dish is a celebration of fresh flavors and stunning views.
Musée Mécanique
2.1 km
Explore the whimsical Musée Mécanique at Pier 45, where vintage arcade games and mechanical wonders await in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
2.1 km
Experience the playful California sea lions at Pier 39, a vibrant San Francisco attraction combining marine life with stunning bay views and local culture.
Hyde Street Pier
2.1 km
Discover the rich maritime history at Hyde Street Pier, where historic ships and stunning views of San Francisco's bay await every visitor.
The San Francisco Sailing Company
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of San Francisco Bay with sailing adventures from The San Francisco Sailing Company at Pier 39.
Sea Lions
2.1 km
Discover the charming sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf, a must-see attraction in San Francisco for marine life enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises
2.1 km
Discover the beauty of San Francisco Bay with Red and White Fleet Cruises, an unforgettable journey showcasing iconic landmarks and stunning views.
San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
2.1 km
Experience the magic of the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39, a whimsical attraction perfect for families and tourists of all ages.
Essential places to dine
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
2.1 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Cioppino's
2.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Capurro's Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
2.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Fog Harbor Fish House
2.3 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
2.3 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Surisan
2.3 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Eagle Cafe
2.3 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Gary Danko
2.4 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Fior d'Italia
2.7 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Original Joe's
3.2 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Red Window
3.2 km
Discover Red Window: A delightful European-inspired bar in San Francisco's North Beach offering tapas, cocktails, and a charming beer garden.
Sotto Mare
3.3 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
2.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Frank's Fisherman
2.1 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Safe Harbor
2.1 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Enlightenment
2.2 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
Solve It! Think out of the box
2.2 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
I Love SF
2.2 km
Discover unique San Francisco souvenirs at I Love SF, a vibrant gift shop showcasing the spirit of the city in every treasure.
Fairy Tales
2.2 km
Explore the whimsical world of Fairy Tales Gift Shop at Pier 39, San Francisco, where magic and creativity come to life in enchanting souvenirs.
The Cable Car Store
2.2 km
Explore San Francisco's charm at The Cable Car Store, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city's iconic culture.
Under the Golden Gate
2.3 km
Explore Under the Golden Gate, a vibrant gift shop at Pier 39 offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of San Francisco.
Only In San Francisco
2.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
2.3 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
Route 66
2.3 km
Discover Route 66: A charming general store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Lola of North Beach
2.3 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Missing Audrey Vintage
3.0 km
Explore the eclectic world of fashion at Missing Audrey Vintage, where unique vintage clothing and accessories await in vibrant North Beach, San Francisco.
Vacation
3.2 km
Explore San Francisco's retro charm at a vintage clothing store filled with unique fashion finds and timeless treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luau Lounge
2.1 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
2.1 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Hard Rock Cafe
2.3 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
2.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
The Interval at Long Now
2.4 km
Discover The Interval at Long Now: a San Francisco cocktail bar that fuses mixology with thought-provoking exhibits, perfect for curious travelers.
Red Jack Saloon
2.6 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Sweetie's Art Bar
2.6 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Bodega North Beach
3.0 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bar Iris
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of cocktails and Japanese cuisine at Bar Iris, a must-visit culinary gem in San Francisco's Polk Gulch.
Tony Nik's CAFE
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
3.3 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Maggie McGarry's
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
The Showdown
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
The Saloon
3.5 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at The Saloon, North Beach's oldest bar, featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
