San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge & Sausalito Bike Tour

Summary

Golden Gate ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to Sausalito with locals

You’ll pedal from San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf past sea lions and city landmarks before crossing the Golden Gate Bridge into sunny Sausalito. Expect salty air, local stories from your guide, time for photos, plus flexible return options by bike or ferry. That first glimpse of San Francisco behind you? It sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

I actually managed to spill my coffee right before we started at Fisherman's Wharf — not the best look, but our guide just grinned and handed me a napkin like he’d seen it all before. The place smelled like salt and fried shrimp, and there was this early buzz from the street performers warming up. We got our bikes (mine had a little sticker that said “Rosie,” which felt oddly reassuring) and helmets, then set off past the old fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. There were families everywhere, and someone’s dog kept trying to chase the seagulls — made me laugh more than I expected.

Fort Mason came up quick, with its brick walls and some kind of art fair setting up — I caught a whiff of cinnamon churros drifting over. Our guide, Chris, pointed out where soldiers used to watch for ships (hard to imagine now with all the joggers). We coasted through Crissy Field, which was wide open and windy that morning. You could hear gulls squabbling over scraps near the water, and honestly, I kept glancing up at the Golden Gate Bridge like it might disappear if I blinked. The air changed as we got closer — colder, sharper — and Chris told us about how they repaint the bridge every year in that “international orange.”

I didn’t expect crossing the bridge itself to feel so loud — cars thumping by just a few feet away and wind whipping at your jacket. But then you look left: city skyline behind you; right: open Pacific. My hands were cold on the handlebars but I couldn’t stop grinning. We stopped for photos at Vista Point (I probably took too many), then coasted down into Sausalito where everything suddenly felt sunnier and slower. Some folks peeled off for wine shops or lunch; I grabbed a sandwich by the water and watched a couple of pelicans fighting over fish scraps.

You can take your time heading back — either pedal home or hop on the ferry (ticket’s extra). I lingered longer than planned in Sausalito’s little crystal shop just because it smelled nice inside. Still think about that first view from the bridge when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — San Francisco to Sausalito bike tour

• Depart from Fisherman's Wharf
• Ride electric bike through city neighborhoods
• Pass by Fort Mason
• Visit Aquatic Park waterfront views
• Ride past yachts at Crissy Field
• Admire Palace of Fine Arts
• Ride along Golden Gate Promenade wetlands
• Listen to ocean sounds at Crissy Field
• Take coffee and restroom break
• Stop for photos before Golden Gate Bridge
• Bike across Golden Gate Bridge
• Take photos at Sausalito Vista Point
• Conclude tour in downtown Sausalito

Top questions

How long is the San Francisco Golden Gate to Sausalito bike tour?

The guided portion lasts up to 3 hours, covering key sights between Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown Sausalito.

Is there a local guide on this bike tour?

Yes, a local expert leads the group and shares insights about San Francisco landmarks along the way.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at 2661 Taylor Street near Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.

Are bikes included in this tour?

Yes, high-quality bike rental is included for the day along with helmet, lock, and map.

Can I return from Sausalito by ferry?

Yes, you can take your bike on the ferry back to San Francisco; ferry ticket is not included in the tour price.

Is lunch included during this tour?

No meals are included but you’ll have free time in Sausalito for lunch or snacks at your own pace.

What fitness level do I need for this bike tour?

The route follows mostly flat paths around hills and is suitable for all fitness levels; electric bikes are provided.

Are infant seats available for families?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request for families traveling with young children.

What’s included

Your day includes a high-quality bike rental (with helmet, lock, and map), a three-hour guided ride led by a knowledgeable local sharing stories about San Francisco’s landmarks from Fisherman’s Wharf to Sausalito—plus flexible options to return at your own pace or via ferry (ticket not included).