Sausalito Travel Guide

Explore the culturally-rich and natural attractions of Sausalito, California. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and the food and drink scene.


Introduction to Sausalito

Located in Marin County, North Bay, California, Sausalito is a picturesque town surrounded by natural beauty. Known as the “Gate to the City,” Sausalito has a small-town charm that attracts tourists from all over the world. The town’s unique combination of the natural landscape, rich history, and cultural attractions has made Sausalito a popular destination for travelers. With this guide, you can easily navigate the best attractions, accommodations, and food offerings that Sausalito has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Sausalito

Sausalito boasts a variety of cultural and natural attractions that provide unique experiences for visitors. Here’s a list of places to visit in Sausalito:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bay Area Discovery Museum: This museum is perfect for families with young children. It offers interactive exhibits on science, art, and the environment.
  • Marinship Park: This historical park is a former shipyard and munitions depot during World War II. It has numerous war relics on display that offer insights into California’s wartime past.
  • Headlands Center for the Arts: A unique artist residency program that provides workshops and performances about contemporary art, architecture, and the environment.
  • Sausalito Historical Society: This museum provides visitors with an in-depth perspective on Sausalito’s history and maritime heritage.
  • Bay Model Visitor Center: An interactive exhibit that demonstrates how water flows into the San Francisco Bay delta.

Natural Attractions of Sausalito: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Golden Gate National Recreation Area: An outdoor attraction that offers scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hiking and biking trails, picnic tables, and a beach.
  • Point Bonita Lighthouse: A significant maritime landmark that dates back to the 1850s. It offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Downtown San Francisco.
  • Mount Tamalpais: An iconic peak that offers stunning views of famous landmarks and lush forests. There are several hiking trails to enjoy, including the famous Dipsea Trail.
  • Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary: A serene wildlife sanctuary that provides an opportunity to view various birds, including egrets, herons, and more. It is also a great spot for kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sausalito

Apart from hiking trails, Sausalito also offers beautiful biking routes. Here are a few popular hiking and biking routes in Sausalito:

  • Tennessee Valley Trail: A 3.4-mile trail with stunning coastal views, lush meadows, and tranquil streams.
  • Dipsea Trail: A 7.4-mile hiking trail that passes through scenic forests and offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Mount Tamalpais Loop: A challenging mountain biking trail that offers beautiful views of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Rodeo Valley Trail: A smooth, easy 7-mile trail that offers dramatic views of Rodeo Valley and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Best Things to Do in Sausalito: Activities and Tours

Sausalito offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all interests and ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Sausalito:

  • Sausalito Art Walk: This monthly event allows visitors to explore a range of contemporary and traditional art galleries and exhibits.
  • Bay Voyager Adventures: An adventure tour company that offers thrilling boat rides around Sausalito’s coast and San Francisco bay.
  • Sausalito Food and Wine Tour: A delicious food tour that features the town’s best gastronomic delights, including wine tasting, beer tasting, seafood, and sweets.
  • Bay Area Discovery Museum: A family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits that will keep kids engaged and entertained.
  • Sausalito Floating Homes Tour: A unique tour that allows visitors to explore the houseboat community of Sausalito.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sausalito

Here’s a week-long itinerary that explores the best of Sausalito:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Bay Area Discovery Museum and Tennessee Valley Trail
Day 2 Tour the Sausalito Historical Society and explore the houseboat community
Day 3 Biking Mount Tamalpais Loop and hiking Dipsea Trail
Day 4 Visit Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary, and go kayaking
Day 5 Enjoy a walking tour of the town’s art galleries and exhibits
Day 6 Visit Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Point Bonita Lighthouse
Day 7 Sausalito Food and Wine Tour, and Bay Voyager Adventures

Food and Drink Scene of Sausalito

Apart from outdoor activities and cultural attractions, Sausalito also boasts a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Tacos: A San Francisco Bay Area classic, made with fresh fish and veggies and wrapped in a soft tortilla.
  • Crab Benedict: A mouthwatering dish that combines poached eggs, crab, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin.
  • Clam Chowder: A hearty chowder made with fresh clams and served in a sourdough bowl.

Local Beverages

  • Moscato Wine: A sweet wine made with Moscato grapes.
  • Anchor Steam Beer: A classic San Francisco beer with a rich brewing history.
  • Margaritas: Sausalito’s unique twist on the classic Margarita, with added fresh fruit and herbs.

Where to Stay in Sausalito: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sausalito has a variety of accommodation options to choose from that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa: A luxurious hotel with a boutique spa and beautiful views of Richardson Bay.
  • HI Marin Headlands Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers a cozy and comfortable stay in a scenic location.
  • The Gables Inn Sausalito: A charming guesthouse with Victorian-style architecture and antique decor.

What to Buy in Sausalito: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sausalito is known for its art galleries, specialty shops, and boutiques. Here are some of the local products you can find and bring home as souvenirs:

  • Sausalito-made ceramics and pottery: Browse local ceramics shops to discover unique ceramics and pottery pieces made by local artists.
  • Sausalito’s famous sourdough bread: Get a loaf of classic San Francisco-style sourdough bread to take home.
  • Art pieces and crafts: Visit the art galleries throughout the town to find one-of-a-kind art pieces crafted by the local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Sausalito

Sausalito is a town with a unique blend of culture and lifestyle. As a visitor, it’s essential to respect the local customs and culture. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Respect the houseboat residents: If you visit the houseboat community of Sausalito, remember that it’s a residential area, and some houseboat residents might not want visitors around their homes.
  • Show respect in cultural events and festivals: When attending cultural events and festivals in Sausalito, it’s important to show respect and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Be mindful of the environment: As Sausalito’s beauty is mostly natural attractions, be mindful of the environment. Do not litter, and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking.

Best Time to Visit Sausalito

The best time to visit Sausalito is during the summer months between June and August. The weather is pleasant, and most outdoor activities are available during this period.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sausalito

Do:

  • Do explore the houseboat community: The houseboat community is a unique attraction in Sausalito and is worth visiting.
  • Do embrace the outdoor activities: Sausalito is surrounded by natural beauty, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking are some of the best experiences to have in Sausalito.

Don’t:

  • Don’t trespass on private property: Sausalito has many residential areas, and it’s important to respect the residents’ privacy.
  • Don’t litter: As Sausalito is surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife, it’s essential to prevent littering. Leave No Trace principles should be followed at all times.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sausalito

Sausalito is generally a safe place. Visitors should still take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, such as being aware of their surroundings. One common scam to watch out for in Sausalito is the parking lot scam. Do not leave any valuables, as they might attract unwanted attention.

Health in Sausalito

Sausalito has excellent health facilities, and visitors can access medical services easily. However, it is essential to have health/medical insurance before visiting.

Getting to Sausalito: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sausalito

The nearest airport to Sausalito is the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which is about 30 minutes away by car. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is also an option, but it’s located roughly 45 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Sausalito

Golden Gate Transit operates several bus routes to and from Sausalito. The most popular routes are 30X and 70, which have regular schedules throughout the week.

Other Options

Visitors can take the ferry service from San Francisco’s Ferry Building to Sausalito, which offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. It’s also a reasonable and eco-friendly option compared to driving.

How to Get Around in Sausalito

Sausalito is a small town and can be quickly explored on foot. Some visitors prefer bike rentals or taking the ferry, but walking gives you the chance to explore all the little streets and pathways.

Where to Go Next from Sausalito: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Apart from visiting San Francisco, visitors can explore other nearby destinations that offer a unique experience:

  • Muir Woods National Monument: A park that offers a soothing experience surrounded by the towering trees of the Redwood Forest.
  • Muir Beach: A secluded beach that offers stunning views and a relaxing environment.
  • Stinson Beach: A long sandy beach that offers excellent surfing and swimming opportunities.

Conclusion

Sausalito has all the must-see attractions, unique cultural experiences, and outdoor activities for an exciting adventure. Its small-town charm has made it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore Northern California’s beauty. Follow this comprehensive guide to plan your visit to Sausalito, California, and make the most of your trip!

The waterfront in Sausalito The waterfront in Sausalito Downtown Sausalito Downtown Sausalito