San Francisco Redwoods & Coast: Armstrong Woods, Sausalito & Beach Day Trip

Summary

Redwoods walk, California coast picnic and Sausalito stroll from San Francisco

You’ll wander beneath ancient redwoods at Armstrong Woods (not crowded Muir), grab lunch in a cozy timber town, picnic by wild Pacific waves if weather allows, and finish with free time along Sausalito’s boardwalk before heading back to San Francisco—either by van or ferry. It’s a day full of fresh air and small surprises.

What’s the experience like?

You step off the van and it’s just—quiet. Not silent, but that old, green hush you get in Armstrong Woods, north of San Francisco. The trees are so tall it almost feels rude to talk too loud. Our guide, Mike (who grew up around here), told us to look for the banana slugs. I didn’t expect to actually see one but there it was, bright yellow against the damp earth. The air smelled like wet bark and something sweet—maybe bay leaves? We walked slow because you kind of have to; these redwoods are older than most countries. I kept thinking about how everyone else crowds into Muir Woods, but here we had space to breathe.

We stopped for lunch in this little timber town—Duncans Mills—where the deli lady called me “hon” and handed over a sandwich bigger than my hand. If the weather’s good (it was foggy but not cold), you get to eat right on the beach. There’s this moment where you hear gulls fighting over scraps and the Pacific wind just kind of smacks you in the face—salty, sharp. I tried to skip a stone and failed miserably; Mike laughed but didn’t judge.

After that, we rolled down the coast with windows open, everyone a bit quieter than before. We made a quick stop at that old schoolhouse from Hitchcock’s “The Birds”—it’s smaller than it looks in photos—and then finally ended up in Sausalito. The light on the water was all silver and gold, and some folks grabbed ice cream while others just sat on benches watching ferries cross toward San Francisco. You can ride back with the group or take the ferry yourself if you want more time out there—I did, mostly for that last view of the city through sea mist. Still think about it sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Redwoods, Coast, and Sausalito visit

• Walk among tallest Redwoods
• Stop at iconic schoolhouse
• Pick up lunch in Duncans Mills
• Picnic at Goonies beach
• Shop and walk Sausalito Boardwalk
• Take photos of Golden Gate Bridge

Top questions

How long does this day trip from San Francisco take?

The tour lasts a full day with morning pickup and late afternoon return.

Is hotel pickup included for this redwoods tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included from selected hotels in San Francisco.

Which redwood forest do we visit?

You visit Armstrong Woods instead of crowded Muir Woods.

Is lunch provided during this California coast tour?

No set lunch is provided; you buy your own lunch in Duncans Mills (lots of options).

Can I take a ferry back from Sausalito?

Yes, you can choose to return by ferry from Sausalito to Fisherman’s Wharf instead of taking the van.

Are children allowed on this day trip?

Yes, children are welcome but car seats are required for those 8 years or younger (bring your own).

Is this tour suitable for strollers or prams?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a stroller or pram during the trip.

What famous landmarks are included?

You’ll see Armstrong Woods’ redwoods, drive along the California coast, visit Duncans Mills and Sausalito Boardwalk, plus photo stops at Golden Gate Bridge.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select San Francisco hotels, all transport with a local driver-guide who knows every turn off Highway 1, plus time to buy lunch in Duncans Mills before relaxing on the beach or exploring Sausalito at your own pace before heading back across the bay.