As a nurse, I have the beautiful flexibility of having a couple weekdays off during the week. If you are a nurse you know that this flexibility comes with a lot of perks, like being able to go to Costco with less hassle because there are less people, or being able to go to national parks with less crowds!
Last week I took advantage of having my Wednesday off and visited Angel Island State Park, a car free island that has stunning views of the bay, Golden Gate Bridge and a variety of activities for a perfect day trip from San Francisco. I encourage you to visit Angel Island when you get a chance as it is is such a low impact and high value trip.
Best Time to Visit Angel Island
The beauty of Angel Island lies in its year-round accessibility. I highly recommend a weekday in summer which tends to be less crowded than weekends.
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy mild temperatures with blooming wildflowers painting the island in vibrant hues.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for soaking up the sun on the beaches, with the caveat that fog can sometimes roll in. Pack layers!
- Fall (September to November): Experience comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December to February): The island is less crowded, and occasional rain showers can add a dramatic touch to the scenery. Just be sure to dress warmly.
How to get to Angel Island State Park
Several ferry options connect San Francisco with Angel Island.
- Golden Gate Ferry: The most popular option departs from the San Francisco Ferry Building. Round trip tickets for adults cost around $15, with discounts for seniors and children. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes, offering stunning cityscapes and bay views
- Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry: This shorter, 12-minute ferry ride departs from Tiburon, a charming town across the bay. Roundtrip tickets for adults range from $12 to $15, depending on the season. You can park at one of many parking lots in Tiburon for $20 per day.
- The ticket covers the entrance fee to the park
Why you should visit Angel Island
Honestly, I think Angel Island is super underrated and is not talked about (which is great), but I think it deserves to have its moment:
- For its Panoramic Views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge and the skyline
- Hike scenic trails
- Relax on the most underrated beaches in SF
- To see a variety of bird species
- Have a chance to camp out on the island and watch the sunrise over the East Bay the following morning
- To have an escape from the bay for a day
- Have a quiet family picnic
- To explore the fascinating history of the island
Angel Island State Park is often referred to as the jewel of the Bay, and like a jewel, it shines differently depending on which side you are looking at.
Related Reads: No this isn’t Greece, this hidden gem is in the bay area
Things to do on Angel Island State Park
BIKE AROUND THE ISLAND
My favorite thing I did on the island was rent a bike and ride the mostly paved 6 mile road that follows the perimeter around the island. It took us 3 hours to bike around the island, including stops. Biking was fun because its a car free island!
- Bike rentals are available as soon as you step off the ferry at Alaya Cove Angel Island Company
- Bicycles are available for rent on the island by the hour ($16) or by the day ($64)
- E-bikes can also be rented. Be aware that the supply of rental bikes on the island is limited. Many passengers who arrive by ferry bring their own bicycles, wagons and strollers with them.
Pro-Tip: Pack yourself some turkey sandwiches, or whatever you fancy, some snacks and some beverages so you can have a picnic on the island. There is a cantina that has food and refreshments but it’s pricey.
TAKE A HIKE
Hikes are the best way to capture those 360 degree views of the entire bay. You can choose from several options.
- Sunset Trail: This moderate 5 -mile trail offers panoramic views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Livermore, the island’s highest point. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the panorama at the top. Bring your snacks and water, you are going to want to be up there for a while..
- North Ridge and Sunset Trail: This moderate 5-mile trail ends at Quarry Beach beach, perfect for a swim or a relaxing break
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RELAX ON THE BEACHES
The beaches on Angel Island are so underrated. They are gorgeous and almost kind of secluded and private. So if relaxation and getting lost in a book is your priority, head to one of these beaches on the island.
- Quarry Beach is known for its abundance of sea glass, perfect for collecting colorful pieces as keepsakes
- Perles Beach – The beach is completely trash free – one of the most special places in the bay area. Very quiet and secluded – beautiful views. Everyone should visit.
KAYAK ON THE ISLAND
Experience Angel Island from a unique perspective with a guided kayak tour.
The tours typically last a few hours and include instruction for beginners. Explore hidden coves, spot marine wildlife like harbor seals, and learn about the island’s fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide
****Ferry passengers are frequently warned to make sure to catch the last ferry of the day. But other visitors bring their camping gear and stay overnight at the island’s campsites. Reservations for campsites are available here. ***
TAKE A SEGWAY TOUR AROUND THE ISLAND
Explore the island effortlessly and enjoy stunning views with a guided Segway tour (reservations required). Every time I get on a segway, I instantly bring out my inner child. It’s never a dull day on a segway.
Related Reads: Must Do Quick Drivable Getaways from SF
Tips for Your Trip to Angel Island
- Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water and a beach towel
- Bring your own food and drinks, as options on the island are limited.
- Purchase ferry tickets and bike rentals in advance, especially during peak season.
- Be aware of the weather conditions.
- Leave no trace and respect the island’s natural beauty
