Overview
Angel Island State Park is a beautiful island park located in the heart of San Francisco Bay, offering stunning views, rich history, and numerous outdoor activities. It's known for itsImmigration Station Museum and scenic hiking trails.
Angel Island served as an immigration station, similar to Ellis Island, and has significant historical importance in the Asian American community.
Location
Address
Angel Island, Tiburon, California
Neighborhood: San Francisco Bay Area
Coordinates
37.856900, -122.425700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild
- • Wildflowers
- • Migratory birds
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended ferry hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
Cool
- • Fall foliage
- • Harvest festivals
winter
Cold and rainy
- • Holiday lights
- • Winter hiking
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Ferry reservations recommended
- Bring ID and cash
- Check ferry schedule and weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (some trails are steep)
- • Stay hydrated
- • Be prepared for steep hikes
Medical facilities: First aid available, but no hospital on the island
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, Hiking shoes or comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least a few days in advance, especially on weekends and holidays
- • Official Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry website or app
- • 24 hours notice for full refund
- • Online tickets and early morning ferries
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Ferry schedules and tickets, Park maps and trail guides, Audio tours and historical information, Event calendars
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Ayala Cove Visitor Center, Café and picnic areas
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café area
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 5-10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Angel Island offers a peaceful escape from the city with stunning views, rich history, and great outdoor activities.
Historical Significance: The island played a crucial role in California's immigration history, particularly for Asian immigrants in the early 20th century.
Insider Tips
- Visit the island on a weekday for a quieter experience
- The café at Ayala Cove offers great views and local favorite drinks
- Some of the best views can be found along the perimeter road, especially near the fort ruins
Local Recommendations
- • Try the famous Angel Island coffee at the Café on Ayala Cove
- • Ask about guided history tours for deeper insights into the island's past
- • Visit the Tiburon Town Center for additional dining and shopping options after your visit
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin (for special tours)
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Perimeter Road (near Fort McDowell)
Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)
Tips: Capture the Golden Gate Bridge in the background
Result: Stunning panorama with historic ruins and iconic bridge
Mount Davidson Summit
Best Time: Early morning (sunrise)
Tips: 360-degree views of the Bay Area
Result: Breathtaking sunrise views of the entire bay
Immigration Station Museum
Best Time: Midday (good lighting for historic details)
Tips: Focus on architectural details and exhibits
Result: Evocative shots of historic immigration buildings
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Tiburon Town Center
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Shopping and Dining
Belvedere Tiburon Library
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 minutes
Type: Library
Tiburon Peninsula Open Space Landmarks
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 minutes
Type: Nature Trails
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially on weekends"
- "Visit early in the morning for the best experience and fewer crowds"
- "Bring a camera for stunning views of the Bay Area"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
27
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
$30 (round trip ferry ticket)