One of the perks of living in SF is the abundant waterfront and the opportunity to hop on a boat wherever you want. From the historic San Francisco Ferry Building, you can explore exciting ports from Oakland to Alameda, all for under $20 round-trip. Here’s our guide to Bay Area boat and ferry travel.
1. Oakland – Jack London Square
Named for author Jack London, who spent much of his boyhood in this waterfront district which inspired many of his most famous writings. This bustling area is packed with restaurants, bars, and white-sailed yachts that fill the nearby harbor. Here are a few spots that are an easy walk from the ferry terminal:
- Souley Vegan– Whether you’re vegan or not, this acclaimed vegan soul food restaurant serves up some of the tastiest meals in the area.
- Heinhold’s First and Last Chance Saloon – This historic saloon has been in operation since 1884, and has changed little since Jack London was a patron. It was both the first and last chance to grab a drink for sailers and travelers coming through the busy Port of Oakland.
- Timeless Coffee and Bakery – This specialty coffee roaster, cafe, and bakery is 100% vegan and makes some of the best coffee in the neighborhood.
- Plank – This sprawling restaurant and bowling alley features a full arcade, bocce courts, and a variety of other activities that all but guarantee a night of fun.
Round-trip ticket: $9, using Clipper card
2. Treasure Island
This man-made island in the middle of the bay offers breathtaking views of Downtown SF and the entire Bay Area. It’s also home to several historic World’s Fair sites, as well as bars, restaurants, and other treasures. Here are a few spots that are an easy walk from the ferry terminal:
- Treasure Island Museum – Home to exciting exhibits, massive murals, and other fascinating relics.
- Woods Island Club – This gorgeous beer, wine and cider bar is only open on weekends but is the perfect spot for a cold drink with a spectacular view.
- Aracely’s Cafe – This upscale all-day restaurant offers seasonal house-made treats and extraordinary meals.
- Mersea – This casual restaurant offers gourmet takes on approachable favorites like a cheeseburger, fish and chips, and tacos.
Round-trip ticket: $10, purchased online
3. Sausalito
This waterfront town across the bay is packed with seafood restaurants, historic houseboats, nautical-themed watering holes, and jaw-dropping views. This waterfront town is where Otis Redding wrote “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” and countless other musicians, politicians, and artists have called home over the years. Here are a few spots that are an easy walk from the ferry terminal:
- Bar Bocce: A waterfront bar and restaurant with bocce courts, a private beach, a fire pit, and plenty of wood-fired pizza.
- The Trident: The historic bar and restaurant was a popular party destination for generations of rock stars from Janis Joplin to Fleetwood Mac. It’s worth visiting for the stunning views and hearty cioppino alone.
- Angelino Restaurant: This place is pastry heaven in the AM and serves tasty wines and Italian fare in the evening.
- Copita Tequileria y Comida: Stop by for flavorful tacos, tequila (over 100 brands), and fresh ceviche, ideally enjoyed on their outdoor patio.
Round-trip ticket: $15, using Clipper card
4. Alameda – Seaplane Lagoon
The western side of Alameda Island has gone through a lot of changes since the US Navy left in 1997. Some of the vast shipbuilding warehouses are now home to a variety of beer, wine, and spirit producers, who run popular tasting rooms for the public in an area known as “Spirits Alley.” It’s not as bustling as Downtown Alameda but the wide open space offers unparalleled views across the bay. Here are a few spots that are a fairly easy (10-15 min) walk from the Seaplane Lagoon ferry terminal:
- Alameda Naval Air Museum – home to a unique collection of artifacts and exhibits emphasizing the role of the Alameda Naval Air Station in US national defense for over 50 years. It’s a great way to learn about the island’s military history.
- USS Hornet – You can tour this decommissioned WWII aircraft carrier including restored areas of the ship, aircraft, and objects from the Appolo space program.
- Almanac Brewing – This innovative and hugely popular brewery pours a wide variety of freshly brewed beers and regularly hosts food trucks and fun events like beer yoga and trivia night.
- The Rake Pub at Admiral Maltings – This innovative bar features 20+ beers that are all made by breweries that use their hand-crafted malt. You can enjoy a tasty beer while gazing out across the vast indoor malting floor.
Round-trip ticket: $9, using Clipper card
5. Tiburon
This waterfront town is lower profile than nearby Sausalito but no less beautiful, located directly across from the green hills of Angel Island and sporting views of Alcatraz and the SF skyline. Here are a few spots that are an easy walk from the ferry terminal:
- Sam’s Anchor Cafe – This waterfront seafood restaurant is a local favorite with delicious food, affordable prices (for Tiburon), and breathtaking views of Angel Island, Alcatraz, and beyond.
- The Bungalow Kitchen – This fine dining restaurant from acclaimed Chef Michale Mina offers exquisite food and extraordinary views.
- Shoreline Park – The long waterfront park invites you to stroll and enjoy the views.
- Lyford’s Stone Tower – This historic stone tower is great for a photo-op, once guarding the entrance to a proposed (but never realized) utopian village.
Round-trip ticket: $15, using Clipper card
6. Angel Island
Angel Island State Park is home to several historic sites, beaches, and breathtaking views from its highest point, Mt. Livermore. Having a bike would be ideal for Angel Island but here are a few spots that are a fairly easy walk from the ferry terminal:
- Walk/Bike the Perimeter Road – This 4.5-mile paved road runs along the perimeter of the island, giving you access to most of the island’s popular destinations.
- Tour the US Immigration Station – Similar to NYC’s Ellis Island, Angel Island was the largest Immigration Port on the West Coast. Tour the building and learn about the history behind it.
- Book a Tram Tour – If you want to see the sites without the multi-hour walk, this tram tour will take you around the island while an audio tour leads you through Angel Island’s history.
- Climb Mt. Livermore – Sure, it’s a 4.5-mile loop, but the views are spectacular if you feel up to the challenge.
Round-trip ticket: $18, using Clipper card