Day Trip Guide to Sausalito CA: History, Attractions, and More

Sausalito, a charming town located at the northern end of the Golden Gate Bridge, has a unique history and allure. Formed by a community of commercial fishermen and wealthy yachting enthusiasts after the gold rush, the North Pacific Coast Railroad connected the town to San Francisco in the 1870s. Before the bridge was built, Sausalito was a stopping point for rail, car, and ferry traffic. Today, it retains its coast-town charm while being near the modernity of San Francisco. Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit to this intriguing town:

Things to Do On a Day Trip to Sausalito

Explore the Waterfront: Sausalito’s waterfront features boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and houseboats. These floating homes are a unique sight, with some offering tours or overnight stays.
Visit Art Galleries: Sausalito boasts a vibrant art scene. Visit the Sausalito Art Festival, usually held on Labor Day weekend, or explore the galleries in the historic downtown area.
Sailboat Tour or Kayak: Rent a kayak or join a sailing tour to explore the bay. There are several outfitters where you can rent equipment or sign up for guided tours. Many Marinas are available for boating enthusiasts, and most offer rentals to pursue your water recreation fantasies.

Hiking: The Marin Headlands offer beautiful hiking trails with panoramic bay views. The Coastal Trail near Rodeo Beach is particularly scenic.
Sausalito Houseboat Tour: For a unique experience, consider a tour of the houseboats. These floating homes are as varied and colorful as their residents.
Shopping: Sausalito has a diverse shopping scene, from high-end boutiques to quirky shops. Don’t miss the local arts and crafts along Bridgeway, Princess, and Caledonia Streets.
Sausalito Municipal Fishing Pier: The Municipal Fishing Pier is the perfect spot for views of San Francisco.

Dining in Sausalito:

Sausalito offers diverse dining options, from casual to upscale. Seafood is a highlight, with many places serving sustainable seafood dishes. For a unique experience, consider dining at a waterfront restaurant such as Scoma’s or Poggio. The culinary scene in Sausalito will excite your taste buds and leave you eager to explore more.

Sausalito Home to Artists & Musicians

Sausalito has been the inspiration for many artists and musicians over the years. Otis Redding wrote his hit “Dock of the Bay” while staying at Waldo Point 1967. Huey Lewis and the News, the Dave Matthews Band, Bob Marley, Metallica, Fleetwood Mac, and the Fray have recorded albums at local The Plant Studios. Part of the novel The Wrecker by Robert Louis Stevenson is set in Sausalito, and the opening of The Sea-Wolf by Jack London is set on a ferryboat traveling from the town to San Francisco.

Sausalito Place of Abundance

Following the war, that industrial character morphed into an artistic one, as the town gained prominence as a wealthy and creative hotbed. In the late 1960s, seeing many residents on houseboats became common, and tourists noticed, making it a popular destination. Sausalito maintains a coast-town charm while still being close to the modernity of San Francisco. The town derives its name from the Spanish word “place of abundance.” That promise has led many cities to search for inspiration and relaxation.

Where to Stay – Weekend Getaway:

While Sausalito has some hotels and B&Bs, staying in San Francisco and making day trips might be more economical unless you’re looking for a unique experience like staying on a houseboat.

Best Time to Visit:

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season with the best weather, but it can be crowded. Fall and Spring offer mild weather with fewer crowds. Winter can be rainy, but you’ll encounter fewer tourists, and the town has its charm in the off-season.

Tips Before You Go:

Parking: This can be challenging, especially in peak season. Consider public transport or arriving early.
Weather: Always be prepared for the microclimates of the Bay Area; bring layers as it can get chilly by the water, even in summer.
Accessibility: Most of the town is walkable, but some hills can be steep.

Getting To Sausalito, California

By Car: Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and follow Highway 101 North. Take the exit for Sausalito. The scenic drive offers great views of the bridge and San Francisco Bay.
By Ferry: A more scenic and relaxed option is to take the ferry from San Francisco’s Ferry Building or Pier 41. The ferry ride provides stunning views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
By Bike: Cyclists can ride across the Golden Gate Bridge and reach Sausalito via the multi-use path. There are bike rental options in San Francisco if you don’t have your own.

Sausalito provides a peaceful retreat from San Francisco. Sausalito is a true gem with its artistic charm and breathtaking natural beauty. The area spans approximately two miles of steep wooded hillsides and a flat shoreline. It’s not a destination for amusement parks or bright lights; it’s a place to appreciate the scenery and unwind. Enjoy your visit!

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