Ferry travel is an underrated way to experience the Bay Area, with dozens of scenic boat rides accessible right from San Francisco’s Ferry Building. One of our favorite hidden gems to visit is Tiburon, California, which you can reach in about 30 minutes by ferry.
While this charming seaside town is lower profile than nearby Sausalito, it’s no less beautiful, revealing panoramic SF Bay views at every turn of its waterfront trails. Keep reading for everything to know before your day trip to Tiburon, including attractions and things to do, places to eat, and tips for visiting.
Things to do in Tiburon
Waterfront trails and parks
Here are some of the best spots to enjoy Tiburon’s scenic outdoor areas on the waterfront, all of which boast dramatic ocean views and tranquil settings away from the crowds.
- Old Rail Trail (Tiburon Bike Path) – This flat, paved route between downtown and Blackie’s Pasture is an accessible biking and walking route for all ages with glimpses into the town’s railroad history.
- Blackie’s Pasture – This adorable park named after Tiburon’s famous horse, Blackie, is popular among dog walkers, bikers, and families. It also has flat paved paths and great views of Richardson Bay and Mount Tam.
- Shoreline Park – Stroll down Shoreline Park’s wide walking paths and take in unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge and SF skyline. Make sure you get a photo at the end of Elephant Rock Pier.
- Paradise Beach Park – Bring a picnic and set up on the lawn at Paradise Beach Park, which is frequented by families, groups, and fishermen.
Historic Main Street and Ark Row
See Tiburon’s maritime heritage and modern charm on full display in the downtown area, which is concentrated along Tiburon’s Main Street. The shopping area known as “Ark Row” is tucked inside converted houseboats and historic buildings, also known as “arks,” which were once floating homes in the early twentieth century.
These days, you’ll find a great selection of restaurants, galleries, wine bars, boutiques, and specialty shops here. Look out for lively seasonal events, including the Tiburon Wine Festival in October and Friday Nights on Main in the summer.
Angel Island
Angel Island is located just off the shore of Tiburon, and you need only take a 12-minute ferry to reach it from the Tiburon Ferry Terminal. The entire island is a state park with several historic sites, beaches, and great views from its highest point, Mt. Livermore. It’s fun to experience by biking along the 4.5-mile paved perimeter path, which takes you through some of the best destinations. You can even tour the Angel Island Immigration Museum, which will teach you about the island’s history as the largest immigration port on the West Coast.
More local attractions
Consider the following unique attractions for even more things to do in Tiburon.
- Railroad and Ferry Depot Museum – A waterfront museum on the Shoreline Path detailing the maritime history of Tiburon, including a working model railway replicating the Tiburon rail yard in 1909.
- Hippie Tree – A massive old Eucalyptus tree with a famous tree swing that’s great for photo ops.
- Richardson Bay Audubon Center – A nature sanctuary for waterbirds with 10.5 acres of trails and gardens and a cool Victorian building.
- Lyford’s Stone Tower – A funky old stone tower in Shoreline Park that’s great for kids.
Best restaurants in Tiburon
Fuel up for your day of sightseeing in Tiburon with hearty meals at the following popular cafes and restaurants.
- Sam’s Anchor Cafe – An iconic Tiburon restaurant known for its waterfront patio, classic seafood dishes, and historic vibe.
- Luna Blu – A seafood-focused Italian restaurant with great views of the harbor and an upscale atmosphere.
- The Bungalow Kitchen – Celebrity chef Michael Mina helms this coastal Californian restaurant that’s great for foodies.
- The Caprice – Enjoy exquisitely-prepared seafood and steak at this romantic restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Tiburon Tavern – This relaxed gastropub has a big patio, fire pits, a seasonal menu, and an inviting environment for groups and families.
Tips for visiting Tiburon
As is often the case around the Bay Area, you may find that Tiburon is best experienced in the spring and fall seasons. This is your best bet to avoid the fog and enjoy views with fewer crowds. No matter when you visit, remember to bring layers, especially if you’re hoping to enjoy that waterfront dining.
You can reach Tiburon via a 30-minute ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Building—a one-way ride costs $14 for a regular ticket or $8 with a Clipper Card.
If driving from San Francisco, Tiburon is about a 30-45 minute drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and around Richardson Bay. Having a car may give you the option to see some other cool stops, such as the gorgeous Mill Valley Public Library or the Sausalito houseboats.