San Francisco, Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Tour with Alcatraz

Summary

Redwoods, city streets and salty air on one easy San Francisco day

You’ll wake up inside San Francisco’s neighborhoods before crossing Golden Gate Bridge into Muir Woods’ quiet shade, then break for lunch in colorful Sausalito by the water. If you choose Alcatraz, end your day on the island with stories echoing through empty cells—a mix of city energy and silent redwoods that’ll stay with you.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the bus rolling through North Beach—someone’s espresso drifting out from a café window, our guide (I think her name was Jen?) waving at a guy selling bread on the corner. It felt like the city was already wide awake. We zigzagged through Chinatown (so much color—lanterns, shop signs, people haggling over oranges), then Fisherman’s Wharf where you could actually hear sea lions barking somewhere behind the clam chowder stands. I tried to take a photo but got distracted by the smell of sourdough. Happens.

The drive up to Pacific Heights made my stomach drop a little—those hills are no joke. Jen pointed out the Mrs. Doubtfire house and I swear half the bus gasped at once. After that, we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge (fog hanging low, but you could still see that orange paint peeking through) and stopped at Fort Point for photos. Wind nearly took my hat off. I liked that nobody rushed us here; people just wandered or stared out at the bay in their own way.

Muir Woods was quieter than I expected—just this hush under the redwoods, like even kids knew to whisper. The air smelled green, if that makes sense. Our group split up for a bit; I walked slow enough to touch some of the bark (rough, cool). On the way back we stopped in Sausalito for lunch—Jen rattled off her favorite spots and I ended up with fish tacos by the water, watching sailboats drift around like they had nowhere else to be.

If you add Alcatraz (which I did), they drop you right at Pier 33 after Sausalito. The ferry ride felt colder than it looked—I should’ve brought an extra layer—but there’s something about seeing San Francisco from out there that sticks with me. The prison tour is self-guided but you hear old voices echoing through your headphones; it’s eerie but weirdly moving too. I didn’t expect to feel much about an old jail but… well, here we are.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore San Francisco and Muir Woods

• Check in at 782 Columbus Ave
• Tour North Beach neighborhood
• Pass by Fisherman's Wharf
• Pass by San Francisco Chinatown
• Visit Pacific Heights viewpoint
• Pass by Presidio park
• Stop at Fort Point under Golden Gate Bridge
• Walk beneath redwoods at Muir Woods
• Lunch break in Sausalito
• Pass by Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Palace of Fine Arts

Top questions

How long does this San Francisco, Muir Woods & Sausalito day trip take?

The main tour lasts most of the day; if you add Alcatraz, expect to finish later in the afternoon after returning from the island.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Pickup is available—contact directly about hotel arrangements or meet at 782 Columbus Ave in North Beach.

Are tickets for Alcatraz guaranteed?

Yes—Alcatraz tickets are reserved in advance if you book that option.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No set lunch is included; guides give recommendations during your Sausalito stop so you can choose where and what to eat.

Can infants join this day trip?

Yes—infants can ride in a stroller or on an adult’s lap; service animals are also allowed.

What’s special about Muir Woods on this tour?

You’ll get time to walk beneath ancient redwoods at your own pace—the forest is known for its peaceful atmosphere and giant trees.

Where does the Alcatraz part start?

If booked, after lunch in Sausalito you’re dropped at Pier 33 for your ferry and self-guided audio tour of Alcatraz Island.

What’s included

Your day includes transportation by air-conditioned minibus with live commentary from a local guide who shares stories along every stop—from North Beach through Chinatown and Pacific Heights all the way to Muir Woods and Sausalito. If you book Alcatraz, your official ticket plus ferry ride and audio guide are reserved ahead of time for a seamless experience.