Angel Island State Park San Francisco
A serene island escape in SF Bay offering panoramic views, rich history, and diverse outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset views & fewer crowds
Angel Island State Park San Francisco
Best Time
Sunset views & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island escape in SF Bay offering panoramic views, rich history, and diverse outdoor activities.
"The 360 view of the whole bay is worth the trip, especially on a clear day!"
🎯 Don't Miss the Last Ferry!
Seriously, do NOT miss the last ferry. You'll be stranded! :ferry: :warning:
☀️ Go on a Clear Day
The 360 views of the bay are incredible, but only when it's not foggy! :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bay Views
Throughout the island, especially from higher elevations
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. Truly immaculate vistas!
Immigration Station Museum
Ayala Cove
Explore the 'Ellis Island of the West' and learn about the poignant history of immigrants processed here.
Historic Military Barracks
Various locations on the island
Discover remnants of military garrisons and abandoned buildings, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Island-wide
Traverse numerous trails offering diverse scenery, from coastal paths to summit climbs. Great for active exploration.
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules & Last Call
Clear Day for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss the Last Ferry!
Seriously, do NOT miss the last ferry. You'll be stranded! :ferry: :warning:
☀️ Go on a Clear Day
The 360 views of the bay are incredible, but only when it's not foggy! :sunwithface:
🎟️ Ferry Tickets
Buy round-trip tickets online or near Fisherman's Wharf. :ticket:
🥾 Explore the Trails
Hike or bike the many trails for stunning vantage points and historical sites. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss the Last Ferry!
Seriously, do NOT miss the last ferry. You'll be stranded! :ferry: :warning:
☀️ Go on a Clear Day
The 360 views of the bay are incredible, but only when it's not foggy! :sunwithface:
🎟️ Ferry Tickets
Buy round-trip tickets online or near Fisherman's Wharf. :ticket:
🥾 Explore the Trails
Hike or bike the many trails for stunning vantage points and historical sites. :hiking_boot:
🍺 Sunset Beer
Enjoy a beer on the ferry as close to sunset as possible for a magical experience. :beer:
🎒 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy a meal with a view. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Angel Island's stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and its rich historical significance, particularly the Immigration Station. Many enjoy the hiking and biking opportunities, finding it a beautiful escape. However, some find the island's transportation options limited and expensive, and advise careful planning around ferry schedules.
"We had a lovely time here walking around the perimeter trail, stopping for a picnic lunch at one of the many, many, many beautiful views next to a picnic table, and then returning to the harbor to get ice cream and look at the seals on the dock while we waited for our ferry. Lots of history (with informative plaques and maps at regular intervals), beautiful nature mixed with picturesque abandoned buildings, and great timing for a ferry ride in and out."
Mary Seerveld
"This was really fun to check out the island. It is quite a beautiful place. It would be really helpful to visitors if they could figure out a better way to get around the island though. Maybe an on and off tram that just you pay one fee and can hop on and off all through the park. It’s ALOT of walking and a rough terrain in some areas and unfortunately, taking the tram or shuttle- it doesn’t stop very many places at all to see everything - kind of a goofy set up for their scheduled. I feel like that makes it not very user-friendly to visit this place. There was a lot more of the island that we would like to have seen, but didn’t want to pay the $130 to rent a bike. Hopefully they figure out a better usage of the transportation on the island. Lots of cool information and beautiful things to see there though and a lot of very historic buildings that it would’ve been cool to check out further."
Cyndi Huffman
"Came here because it was the only way to get to Alcatraz because we couldn't get tickets unless we bought tickets for both islands but had an amazing time and definitely recommend going. Learning the history of the immigrants was something I never knew. Great tour."
Susan Sakolsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Angel Island State Park is by ferry. Golden Gate Ferry operates services from the San Francisco Ferry Building and Pier 41. You can also catch ferries from Tiburon and Sausalito in the East Bay. It's recommended to purchase round-trip tickets in advance online or at the ferry terminals.
Ferry fares can vary, but typically round-trip tickets from San Francisco are around $20-$25 per adult. Using a Clipper card can sometimes offer a discount. Special late afternoon ferries might be cheaper.
Yes, there is parking available near the ferry terminals in San Francisco (Ferry Building, Pier 41) and in Tiburon/Sausalito. However, parking can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to the ferry.
Yes, Golden Gate Ferry also offers service to Angel Island from Sausalito and Tiburon. This can be a convenient option if you are starting your trip from the East Bay.
The last ferry departure time from Angel Island is crucial to know. Missing it means you'll be stranded overnight! Always check the latest schedule as it can change seasonally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Angel Island State Park itself does not have an entrance fee. The cost is associated with the ferry ride to get to the island.
While not always mandatory, booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend or holiday travel, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and sometimes through special promotions or by using a Clipper card. Check with the ferry operator for current offers.
The park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, ferry operating hours dictate when you can access and leave the island.
There is a snack bar and a small gift shop at Ayala Cove, but options are limited. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to hike or picnic.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Top activities include hiking the perimeter trail or summit trails for incredible views, visiting the Immigration Station Museum, exploring historic military buildings, biking around the island, and picnicking. +2
Absolutely! Angel Island offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls along the perimeter to more challenging climbs to the summit for panoramic views. It's a hiker's paradise. +1
Yes, you can rent bikes on Angel Island, which is a popular way to explore the island's paved perimeter road and trails. However, rentals can be pricey.
Angel Island has a rich history, serving as a military base, a quarantine station, and most notably, the 'Ellis Island of the West' for Asian immigrants. You can learn more at the Immigration Station Museum.
There's a snack bar and a small gift shop at Ayala Cove, but it's not a dining destination. Most visitors bring their own food for picnics.
🎫 🏕️ Camping
Yes, Angel Island offers campsites for overnight stays. It's a popular option for a unique island getaway. Reservations are typically required. +1
Campsites can be booked through the California State Parks reservation system. Popular sites, especially ridge sites with great views, fill up quickly. +1
Camping fees are generally around $30 per night, plus the ferry fare. Prices can vary, so check the official reservation website for current rates.
Campsites usually have basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Potable water is available, but check current conditions. Be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons.
The ridge sites are highly recommended for their stunning views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, though they can be more exposed to wind.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a view of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, or Alcatraz! The summit, the Immigration Station, and the abandoned buildings offer unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, especially if you can catch the last ferry back after sunset. The city lights coming on and the colors over the bay can be spectacular. +1
You might spot deer, coyotes, various birds, and seals near the docks. Keep a respectful distance and use a zoom lens for close-ups.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the panoramic views are still impressive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Angel Island: Getting Around
Biking is another fantastic way to cover more ground. You can rent bikes on the island, but be prepared for the cost. Many visitors opt to bring their own bikes via the ferry. The paved roads are great for casual rides, while some fire roads offer more rugged terrain for mountain biking enthusiasts. Remember to bring a lock if you plan to stop and explore on foot.
While there's a tram tour, its stops can be limited, and some visitors find it not very user-friendly for seeing everything. Renting a bike or exploring on foot offers more flexibility and a deeper connection with the island's natural beauty and historical sites.
A Glimpse into History: Angel Island's Past
However, Angel Island is most famously known as the 'Ellis Island of the West'. From 1910 to 1940, it was the primary immigration processing station for hundreds of thousands of immigrants, particularly from Asia. The Immigration Station Museum at Ayala Cove provides a poignant and informative look into the experiences of these individuals, including the detention and interrogation they often faced. The graffiti left by detainees on the walls of the barracks is a powerful testament to their stories.
During World War II, the island was again used by the military, and later, it became a State Park. This transition has preserved its historical structures and natural beauty, allowing visitors to step back in time while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Camping on Angel Island: An Overnight Escape
The ridge campsites are particularly sought after for their breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. While these sites offer unparalleled scenery, they can be more exposed to the elements. It's advisable to book well in advance, as popular sites fill up quickly.
When camping, be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons, which are known to be quite bold. Proper food storage is essential. Enjoying coffee with a sunrise view or watching the city lights twinkle at night are just some of the magical moments camping on Angel Island can offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit