- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Sausalito
Sausalito's identity was forged in WWII's Marinship shipyards, which drew artists who built the first houseboats from surplus materials. This history explains the contrast between hillside Victorian homes and Richardson Bay's floating architecture. This visual legacy is a core part of any Sausalito travel guide and showcases the city's bohemian spirit.
The Marin Headlands frame the city, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge from places like Hawk Hill, a prime raptor migration viewpoint in fall. You can kayak in the bay or walk the five public floating home docks, each with its own personality. These outdoor experiences are key to truly understanding the area.
The floating homes are more than a scenic view, they represent a unique lifestyle. This community's identity was shaped by the 'houseboat wars' of the 1970s, a fight for their independent existence. You'll see this spirit in the personal art and gardens on each home, particularly around Waldo Point Harbor. It's a culture of creativity and resilience.
- SausalitoUnited States
- SausalitoUnited States
- SausalitoUnited States
- SausalitoUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm & busy
- Wintercool, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #LightLayering
- #Sunscreen
- #WaterBottle
- #Camera
- 2-3 days for highlights
- 4-5 with beaches & day trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #GoldenGateView
- #MarinHeadlands
- #SaulitoArtFest
- #BayModel
- #FerryBuildingMarketplace
- #MuirWoodNationalMonument
- Walk on the waterfront
- Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
- Dine at waterfront restaurants
- Visit local art galleries
- Enjoy views from Battery Spencer
Things to do in Sausalito
Discover
Exploring Sausalito reveals stunning views from the Marin Headlands and waterfront strolls along Bridgeway Promenade. Discover the unique architecture of the Sausalito Houseboats and the Bay Area Discovery Museum's family-friendly exhibits.
Experience
Cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge for iconic views, kayak Richardson Bay, or browse the many art galleries. Experience the annual Sausalito Art Festival or enjoy live music events that dot the city's calendar, offering rich cultural immersion.
Marin Headlands
Natural area with hiking trails and Golden Gate Bridge views.
Sausalito Houseboats of Richardson Bay
Community of unique, artistic floating homes to observe.
Bridgeway Promenade
Waterfront walkway with shops, galleries, and bay views.
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Interactive museum for children at the foot of the GGB.
Battery Spencer
Historic military fort offering iconic bridge photo-ops.
Kayak Richardson Bay
Water sport activity to see wildlife and houseboats.
Sausalito Ferry
Scenic boat ride offering views of Alcatraz and the city.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into SFO or OAK. For the Sausalito airport to city center journey, take BART to SF's Ferry Building, then a scenic 30-min ferry ride. Golden Gate Transit buses also connect from SF. This is how to get to Sausalito without a car.
Getting Around
Sausalito is best explored on foot. For longer distances, use the public transport in Sausalito, like Golden Gate Transit buses. Biking across the Golden Gate Bridge is a popular activity. A summer Sausalito shuttle bus often runs.
Local Essentials
Driving in Sausalito is challenging due to narrow streets and scarce parking. When you plan a trip to Sausalito, book ferry tickets online to avoid queues. The weather changes fast, so dress in layers. A key insight for first-timers.
Where to Stay in Sausalito
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Sausalito's culinary identity, where fresh Dungeness crab and cioppino are staples. The local cuisine revolves around leisurely waterfront dining, pairing stunning bay views with exceptional seafood. Taste the authentic food Sausalito offers.
Enjoy
The best restaurants in Sausalito include Scoma's, a classic seafood house with bay views, book ahead. For drinks, Barrel House Tavern has a modern vibe, request waterfront seating. Sausalito Bakery & Cafe is a cozy local spot for morning pastries.
Scoma's Of Sausalito
A classic seafood spot with stunning bay views.
Sushi Ran
Acclaimed sushi and creative Japanese cuisine.
Poggio Trattoria
Authentic neighborhood Italian trattoria.
The Spinnaker
Known for panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline.
Salito's Crab House & Prime Rib
Casual waterfront dining for crabs and steak.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Sausalito's heritage is on display with its 4th of July parade and fireworks, a tradition reflecting the town's patriotic spirit. The annual Gingerbread House Tour in December showcases community creativity and holiday cheer throughout the city.
Enjoy
Explore modern Sausalito cultural activities with Jazz and Blues by the Bay, a must-see summer concert series. The Sausalito Film Festival offers screenings of impactful, independent films, adding to the city's artistic scene.
4th of July Festivities
A classic town parade, picnic, and fireworks display.
Jazz and Blues by the Bay
Free Friday evening concerts in Gabrielson Park all summer.
Sausalito Art Festival
A waterfront showcase of fine art over Labor Day weekend.
Winterfest
December lighted boat parade and fireworks on the waterfront.
Gingerbread House Tour
A festive, city-wide display and competition in December.
Opening Day on the Bay
A parade of decorated boats celebrating the start of boating season.
A Perfect Escape
Sausalito is such a lovely escape from the city bustle. Taking the ferry over gives you some incredible views of the skyline and Alcatraz. It's so walkable and relaxed, with a completely different feel than San Francisco.
The Reward After the Ride
Biking across the Golden Gate Bridge was a highlight of our trip. Ending up in this pretty waterfront town was the perfect reward. There are lots of great little spots to eat and shop before you catch the ferry back.
So many unique shops
A wonderful, picturesque town with so many unique art galleries and independent shops to browse. We spent hours just wandering along Bridgeway, looking at all the local art and enjoying the waterfront views.
Must see the houseboats!
Sausalito's famous houseboats are something you have to see. It's like a whole other world floating on the water with so much color and personality. The whole place has a very unique, creative feel to it.
Relaxing by the Bay
Loved the chill pace here. It's the perfect spot to just unwind by the bay, watch the boats, and enjoy the scenery. The kids loved getting some scoops at Lappert's Ice Cream while we sat near the water.
Amazing Photo Opportunities
What a beautiful little town for a day trip. The views looking back at the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco are just spectacular from this side of the bay. Definitely a photographer's dream location.