Angel Island State Park

Angel Island has quickly become one of my new favorite day hikes in the Bay Area — the perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure. A quick ferry ride from Tiburon brings you to an island with sweeping views of the Bay, the skyline, and the Golden Gate Bridge that are absolutely breathtaking. The hiking trails are scenic and peaceful, winding through eucalyptus groves and open hillsides, with quiet spots to stop and take it all in. Layered into all that beauty is the island’s fascinating history as the West Coast’s former immigration station, complete with preserved ruins and historical sites that give the day real depth. It’s an easy, unforgettable day trip — great for anyone who loves the outdoors or just wants a fresh perspective on San Francisco. Ferry tickets and park access are simple to book online. A must-do for locals and travelers alike.

💚 amazing landscape and bay views with subtle wildlife 💚 historically restored camps, housing and administration structures from the island’s past lives are found throughout the park 💚 alternatively, a similar number structures are found in varying states of abandonment and decay, which only heightens the level of mystery and intrigue; most viewed from outside, but some can be explored inside 💚 old battery remnants also dot the island; fully accessible for exploring 💚 in short, this park is a photographer’s dream 💚 excellent rangers and park staff 💚 museum: Detention Barracks & Mess Hall requires a nominal fee to enter (check park’s website for current fee); highly recommended as all the top-notch displays completely bring the walls to life and submerge visitors into another time; it is two-floors, self-paced with an estimated time of 20-60 minutes depending on your interest 💚 museum: Immigration Museum is a former hospital facility and requires no fee to enter (as of this writing); this attraction is also self-paced with two floors of displays that do a superb job of taking visitors to another time; estimated time of 15-45 minutes depending on your interest 💚 amenities: restrooms, benches, and picnic tables are found throughout the park 💚 hiking: from easy to moderate, mix of both roads and trails accommodates 💚 biking: wonderful place to bike; bike rentals available; check hours and prices 💚 tram/shuttle: excellent option for those with mobility issues to cover the whole park and see its attractions (or those short on time); check available times beforehand—may require reservations at peak times 💚 cafe on the island, but do check hours; cafe may not open if not enough visitors on island; minimally bring a water bottle (can be refilled in a few locations) 💚 aside from ferry fare, and nominal fee to enter Immigration Station, there is no other cost to enter the park (as of this writing) ⛔️ caution: some attractions are accessed by very steep roads ⛔️ biking: must walk bike in some areas

Wow, what a park! I wish I'd had more time to spend there. I originally intended to hike the mountain after seeing it from Sausalito, but I got there, and discovered there was a history tram tour. I mixed up what I said to the employee at the snack counter, and when I went to correct it, he was so nice, which was par for the course. The tram driver was super kind and even let me hop off at the Immigration Station museum and come back on the last tram, which had no one else on it, so thanks to John for not leaving me stranded. The other concession workers remembered me and were so friendly, and every park ranger I spoke to was happy to answer my weird questions and joke with me when appropriate. The immigration station museum was incredibly moving. I had no idea this was here, and the museum itself is very well modernized, including elevators and accessible restrooms. The original dormitories with the carved poetry from detainees - my goodness. They have done such an incredible job of preserving the interior, though I know some of the original buildings have slowly deconstructed. Truly an amazing experience, and if I come back, I hope I'll be able to camp and get that hike in, but I'm so glad I was able to visit today, and so grateful for all the lovely staff at Angel Island. What an incredible place.

Tourists go to Alcatraz, locals go to Angel Island. So they say. I ended up here by pure change and I loved it. Amazing views of the Bay Area and well-maintained hiking trails. Will be visiting next time I go to SF. If you’re a biker, I suggest you rent your bike elsewhere though.

A must-visit getaway just a short ferry ride from San Francisco! ⛴️✨ Angel Island State Park offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay, scenic hiking trails, and plenty of open space for picnics or leisurely walks 🌿🌸 — perfect for travelers from India or tropical regions looking to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and a peaceful escape from the city buzz. ☀️💚

Beautiful place to visit. Knowledgeable and friendly US Park Service Rangers. Some wildlife with amazing views of the SF Bay. Snack bar/coffee shop by the marina. Easy ferry service to the island from various locations.

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.

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.