San Francisco Bay

Activities

Our most recommended San Francisco Bay Activities

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  1. San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

  Launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, this 1-hour cruise has been a highlight of any visit to San Francisco for over 75 years. With 8-14 departures daily from 10:00, you will sail along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and close to the notorious Alcatraz Island. Discover San Francisco's fascinating history, brought to life through audio commentary broadcast in 16 languages via personal headphones. Look out for wildlife along the way, including pelicans, sea lions, and even dolphins and whales. Sail past the lively neighborhood of North Beach, the famous swimming clubs of Aquatic Park, the historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, and San Francisco Maritime National Park, before heading west towards Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy views of Crissy Field and the lush hillsides of the Presidio, before cruising under Golde...

  Great experience. There are restrooms and a bar with snacks on board. It was a nice relaxing and educational tour to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island. Everyone was friendly. I would recommend 100%!!

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 9/28/2021
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  2. San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off: Classic, Premium or Deluxe

  San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Loop:

  Stop 1: Pier 41 (End of Powell St), Fisherman's Wharf 

  Stop 2: Washington Square – Corner of Columbus and Union Streets

  Stop 3: Embarcadero Center – Corner of Clay and Battery Streets

  Stop 4: Ferry Building - 1 Market Street, between Stuart and Spear Streets

  Stop 5: Union Square South – Geary Street across from Macy’s Entrance 

  Stop 6: Hilton Hotel – Corner of Mason and Ellis Streets 

  Stop 7: Civic Center - Fulton Street between Larkin and Hyde

  Stop 8: Alamo Square/Painted Ladies - Corner of Fell and Pierce Streets

  Stop 9: Haight Ashbury - Corner of Haight and Shrader Streets 

  Stop 10: Golden Gate Park - Music Concourse Drive Golden Gate Park

  Stop 11: Golden Gate Bridge- North Vista Point Main Parking Area

  Stop 12: Palace of Fine Arts – Corner of Rich...

  2 things to improve: they should give you a map when you first get on so you know which stops are closest to the sites you want to see. And both headphone jacks were on the same side, so my husband's cord was stretched across me the entire time.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 9/20/2021
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  3. San Francisco: 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

  Enjoy a 1-hour journey along San Francisco's historic waterfront and experience the thrilling history of the San Francisco Bay, with all the sound and glory it deserves. The 1-hour Bay Cruise takes you past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline. Relax in comfort, with both indoor and outdoor seating, and enjoy a full narration describing major landmarks as you sail by. Whether it’s your first time to San Francisco, or your 10th visit, the Bay Cruise is something you simply must experience at least once in your life. You will get a complimentary souvenir map, which is available in nine languages, and if you get hungry, there’s a full-service snack bar on board.

  Exactly what I expected. We were late getting to our schedule time and was graciously accommodated at a new time slot.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 8/31/2021
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  4. San Francisco: Bridge to Bridge Cruise

  See both the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge in 1 cruise with personal headphone audio included. Explore San Francisco's famous landmarks, history, natural history, architecture, and Native American culture on board this unique bay cruise. During the 90-minute cruise you'll depart from Fisherman's Wharf, one of the city's busiest tourist attractions. From there, sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. Completed in 1937, the Golden Gate is one of the world's most famous and beautiful bridges, and was at one point the largest suspension bridge in the world. Cruise past Alcatraz Island, once home of one of the world's most infamous prisons, and take the chance to enjoy the stunning San Francisco waterfront. The boat will pass along the harbor before heading under the colossal San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Then it's time to head back to the charming city of San F...

  The crew was very helpful getting my husband on and off the boat. He is in a wheelchair. I wish he could have give up too, more to set up there. We enjoyed the audio tour which was broadcast over the ship. I learned a lot about the bridges and the surrounding areas.

  Reviewed by Laura, 9/22/2021
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  5. San Francisco: Escape from The Rock Bay Cruise

  Cruise San Francisco Bay and sail under the Golden Gate Bridge on a 90-minute narrated tour around Alcatraz Island. Skip the box office line and go straight to the gate with your ticket.

  See Alcatraz island from the water while listening to accounts of the chilling escape attempts and the notorious criminals that called Alcatraz prison home. Cruise full circle around Alcatraz Island, allowing you to view every angle of this mysterious island, which housed famous inmates such as Al Capone, Billy Cook the Killer, and Clyde Johnson, whose escape attempt is legendary. Gain a clear picture of what life in this maximum-security prison was like when it was the most feared institution in the American penal system.

  This was a fun trip! I do wish someone would of warned us about how windy and cold it is if you sit on the outside deck. A winter coat and hat, at least, would of created a more comfortable experience. It did seem like the cruise was generous with the time. The only thing I would change is that when circling around Alkatraz that circling around at oppsite directions so that BOTH sides of the boat can get the good, unobstructed view. If you want an unobstructed view sit on the right hand side of the boat. Otherwise we enjoyed this cruise very much. Thank you!

  Reviewed by Kim, 7/28/2021
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  6. San Francisco: California Sunset/Twilight Cruise

  On this relaxed 90-minute cruise, enjoy spectacular sunset views, as you sail on beautiful San Francisco Bay. Take in the amazing waterfront views of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. Along the way, view numerous National Historic landmarks and San Francisco sights, including Coit Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid, St. Peter and Paul's Church, and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. As the sun begins to set over the Marin Headlands, cruise past Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the shorelines of Tiburon, Belvedere, and Sausalito. Watch the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, as you sail west towards the Golden Gate. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, see many more famous sights, including the Presidio, the Marina District, and Fort Mason. Kindly note that seating for this cruise is 'open style'. At times, please expect to sit next to unfamiliar faces.

  The boat was clean and the ride was smooth with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. Overall a very enjoyable experience.

  Reviewed by Keith, 9/20/2021
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  7. San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran

  Enjoy this relaxing 90-minute cruise on board a luxury catamaran and see sunset views of San Francisco as the sun dips below the San Francisco Bay. Sail by Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge, and search for sea lions playing in the ocean. Then, cruise along the shore, gazing on the city skyline as you watch the magnificent sunset.

  Relax onboard either a 55- or 65-foot catamaran. Both come complete with a protected viewing area, providing panoramic 360-degree viewing, in addition to canvas trampoline nets for the more adventurous who want to experience the ocean and sights in the bracing open air.

  the crew was very informative and prepared for our trip, even providing extra jackets if needed

  Reviewed by Kenneth, 9/20/2021
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  8. San Francisco: Luxury Dinner Dance Cruise

  Think of this as date night with a delicious, dynamic twist: When the sun sets and city lights twinkle from the Bay Bridge to the Golden Gate, your Dinner Dance Cruise kicks into high gear. A three-course sit-down meal includes appetizers, salad, a choice of entrée, and dessert, while live music and dancing round out this ideal sightseeing trip or special evening out. Highlights of this tour include Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, Tiburon and Sausalito, the Bay Bridge and San Francisco's piers and city skyline.

  This is a time / money / fun best choice . The team is profesional and ambiance pleasant . Chose best price and extras also . You can realy dance . Good for a event . Also a small gift from them to remeber the trip. In recommand . Look for coupons discount .

  Reviewed by Cosmin, Romania, 8/15/2019
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  9. San Francisco: Small-Group Sonoma Wine Tour with Tastings

  The beautiful Sonoma Valley is your destination on this laid back, fun-filled, all-day tour. Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel/accommodation in downtown San Francisco. Get to know your travel companions for the day as you head out of town and across the Golden Gate Bridge. Learn about the region from your friendly and knowledgeable guide and sample many of the delicious wines that have made Northern California a world-renowned wine-producing region. Travel with a small group (limited to 13 people) to three of Sonoma's finest boutique wineries and spend approximately one hour at each winery. This journey also includes a stop in scenic Sausalito, a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge and a lunch stop in the historic town of Sonoma where you can select from one of the many fantastic restaurants on the square. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk into the past at Missio...

  Anthony was such a great tour guide! So funny and knowledgeable- took us to three great wineries and Sausalito too. He had first hand knowledge of a lot of wine country experience and had us laughing the whole day. Highly recommend the Sonoma wine tour with Anthony!

  Reviewed by Anna, United States, 8/7/2021
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  10. San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour with Drinks

  Meet your captain and first mate at Pier 39, 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Check in and then make yourself comfortable on the Privateer, a lovely double-masted 28-person sailboat. Motor out of the dock, and once out on the bay, your crew will raise the sails. Sail past Alcatraz and Angel Island, get a great view of the Bay Bridge, take in the beautiful green landscape of Marin and the picturesque city of Sausalito, sail parallel to the Golden Gate for some great photo opportunities, and then return to views of the San Francisco waterfront before docking again at Pier 39.  While you are out on the water, your first mate will serve you two free beverages, your choice of beer, wine, soft drinks, or water! Friendly captains and first mates will be happy to answer any questions you might have during your tour, or you can feel free to just sit back, relax, and enjoy our in...

  If you want to experience sailing on the bay this is the way to do it. Very intimate, and close to the water, and not like standing on tugboat like some other tours. Friendly crew and having a couple beverages while viewing the Golden Gate Bridge from the water is unforgettable.

  Reviewed by Anonymous, 6/2/2021