Angel Island Ferry

The Angel Island ferry is the only way to get to and from Angel Island. Since demand to visit Angel Island is lower than other attractions, there is a limited ferry schedule.

Even though it is not as popular, I love heading over to Angel Island. On a sunny day in the city, it is one of the best places for a hike or even to take amazing pictures of San Francisco, Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is quiet and serene, making it the perfect 'get away' in the city.

The Blue and Gold Ferry Fleet Company is the only one that runs the Angel Island ferry between the island and San Francisco. In addition, there is another ferry that runs between Angel Island and Tiburon.

Angel Island Ferry from San Francisco: Summer & Fall Schedule

In the summer and fall, Monday through Friday there is one Angel Island ferry that leaves in the morning and one in the early afternoon. There are also two return ferries. Both leave in the mid-afternoon hours.

Also during warmer months, there are usually three ferries on the weekends. Two run in the morning and one in the mid afternoon.

There are two pick up locations during the warmer months. The ferry picks up at Pier 41 in Fishermans Wharf. Some ferries also pick up at the Ferry Building along the Embarcadero.

The detailed summer and fall schedule for 2012 is not available yet. I will update you once it is released.

Angel Island Ferry from San Francisco: Winter & Spring Schedule

During the week in the winter/spring, when the weather is a little cooler, there is only one Angel Island ferry a day over to Angel Island. It leaves in the morning and returns in the mid-afternoon.

On the weekends, there is one ferry that leaves San Francisco. There are two departure times on the weekend, but one is a few minutes after drop off. So, in reality, there is just one ferry back to San Francisco that you will want to take.

During this time there is also only one pick up point at Pier 41 in Fishermans Wharf. This pick up point is near the famed Pier 39 San Francisco shopping and entertainment area.

Here is the detailed schedule for October 31, 2011 - May 13, 2012.

The return ferry on weekends and holidays is not a misprint. It will take an hour to return as this ferry stops at a couple of additional locations on the way back to San Francisco.

Angel Island Ferry Costs from San Francisco

The cost for adults is $17 per person for a round trip. They sell one way tickets, but since this is the only way off Angel Island, I recommend buying a round trip ticket up front.

The round trip ticket cost the ferry for Seniors and Children ages 6 – 11 is $9.50. Children 5 and under are free.

Angel Island Ferry from Tiburon

There is also a ferry that runs to and from Tiburon and Angel Island. The name of this ferry is the Angel Island Tiburon ferry. This runs a little more often, but it only runs from Tiburon.

*Individuals can hop on group reserved ferries. Call 415-435-2131 for any group ferries during these times.

Note the quick turn around times for some of the ferries. Before booking your ticket or hopping on the ferry, confirm your return times. You do not want to get left on the island!

If you decide to take this ferry, you need to be in Tiburon. Learn more about the Tiburon ferry that takes you from San Francisco over to Tiburon.

Tips for Taking the Angel Island Ferry

Before you go, read up on Angel Island San Francisco. Explore some of the great activities available. Also, find some great spots for pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and the city of San Francisco.

You can either purchase your tickets online or in person at the pier. The time of departure on the ticket is the time the boat pulls away from the dock.

I recommend you get there at least 15 minutes in advance -- or even earlier -- to make sure you get on the boat before they close the doors and push away from the dock.

Bring along some warm layers for the San Francisco Angle Island ferry ride. The ride over to Angel Island is a little chilly most days and sitting outside is the best way to see all of the sites along the way.

If you are heading for a bike ride on the island, you can take your bike on the ferry with you. They allow bikes on the first level and you will see a group of bikes when you board. Right before the ferry reaches the island, you will see everyone head to their bike and this is when you need to grab yours also.

Both ferries alter their schedules for major holiday such as New Years Day. They also close on Christmas Day. Always check the schedule before booking your tickets.

Enjoy Angel Island Without Stepping Off The Boat

Another alternative to seeing Angel Island is to take a San Francisco bay cruise. Many of these cruises take you by the island, provide you with some of its history and offer you the change to take a few photos -- all without getting off the ferry!

If you want to see the island, but do not want to spend all day there -- this is a great alternative. In addition, you are able to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and learn more about all of these very famous landmarks.

The Golden Gate Bay Cruise is a one hour ride around the bay. It departs from Fishermans Wharf at Pier 41 1/2. During the hour ride, you cruise to all three of the attractions mentioned above. There are numerous departure times each day, so you can choose the one that works best for your schedule. Find out more about the Golden Gate Bay Cruise.

Then -- sit back and enjoy your time on the bay!

If you have an extra day in your itinerary or are looking for something fun to do with kids, then I recommend taking an Angel Island ferry over to the island.

Here are some other ferry options for those unable to ride the Angel Island ferry but still interested in a ferry ride on the bay:

• Sausalito Ferry: This ferry runs between San Francisco and Sausalito, a small, cute down located on the northern side of the San Francisco bay. It is a fun afternoon or day trip over to Sausalito. Learn more about the ferry options for a fun trip across the bay to Sausalito.


• San Francisco Ferry Options: Schedules, Pricing and More: Are you having a hard time figuring out which ferry is right for you? If so, then check out this section. It has highlights of all of the major ferries available in the bay area. It also includes some ferry cruises around the bay -- designed for you to be able to sit back and enjoy the beautiful San Francisco bay scenery.