Planning a first trip on the San Francisco to Sausalito ferry? Here’s everything you need to know—from when and where the boats depart, how much it costs, how to get to the terminals and what to see in Sausalito and San Francisco.
A brief history and overview of the San Francisco to Sausalito ferry route
The ferry route between San Francisco and Sausalito is run by the Golden Gate Ferry. It connects the Ferry Building in San Francisco on the Embarcadero to the Sausalito Ferry Landing (downtown Sausalito, at Humboldt and Anchor Streets). The service runs every day and has long been used both by commuters and visitors. In recent decades the ferry has become a convenient alternative to driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, especially during heavy traffic hours, and also a way to enjoy views of the Bay.
The route takes about 30 minutes one way under normal conditions. The service is frequent during weekday daylight hours and less frequent in evenings and on weekends. It also operates using a fare system that distinguishes between adult full fare and discounted fares for Clipper card users, youth, seniors and disabled riders. The terminals offer basic amenities, ticket machines, and accessible access.
Ferry terminals: Locations and how to get there
San Francisco terminal (Ferry Building):
- Located on the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street behind the historic Ferry Building.
- Public transit is the easiest way: BART, Muni, and streetcars reach the Ferry Building or nearby.
- There is no public parking at the terminal itself. Private paid garages and metered street parking are available nearby.
Sausalito terminal (Sausalito Ferry Landing):
- Located downtown at Humboldt and Anchor Streets.
- Parking: there are for-pay public lots adjacent to the ferry landing and metered street parking.
Departure times and journey time
- Weekdays: Departures from San Francisco Ferry Building (Gate B) for Sausalito at 7:40 am, 10:15 am, 12:10 pm, 2:45 pm, 4:20 pm, 5:45 pm and 7:15 pm.
- Weekends and holidays: First departure at 10:15 am, then roughly every two hours until last departure around 5:50 pm.
- The one-way journey takes about 30 minutes under normal conditions.
Ticket prices and payment
- Adult single ride (age 19-64): US$14.00 one way.
- Clipper card adult fare: US$8.25 one way.
- Youth (5-18), seniors (65+), disabled: US$7.00 one way.
- Children under 5: free (limit of two per full fare adult).
- Tickets can be bought at ticket vending machines at terminals; Clipper card is recommended for savings.
- Tickets are valid for 90 days after purchase (nonrefundable, cannot be exchanged).
All times and ticket prices are correct as of September 2025, but are subject to change in future.
Parking and accessibility
Parking:
- In San Francisco: Very limited near the Ferry Building; rely on paid garages or metered street parking a few blocks away.
- In Sausalito: Multiple public lots near the terminal, as well as street meters. Rates and maximum daily limits vary by lot.
- Note: Overnight parking is not generally available in the terminal lots; many lots have maximum durations.
Accessibility:
- The terminals are equipped with accessible boarding ramps or lifts; Golden Gate Ferry is ADA compliant.
- Bicycles are allowed, but during busy times (especially summer), bike space can fill up; check bike-boarding rules in advance.
Booking tips and useful advice
- Arrive early: at least 20 minutes before departure if buying tickets; gates often close shortly before scheduled departure.
- Use the Clipper card or app to get the discounted fare. Buying single ride cash or non-Clipper tickets is more expensive.
- Check weekend/holiday schedule ahead of time because last departures tend to be earlier, and frequency is lower.
What to do in Sausalito
- Walk the waterfront, explore shops, galleries and cafés near the ferry landing.
- Rent a bike: some travellers ride across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco to Sausalito, then return by ferry.
- Combine with hikes or viewpoints in Marin County: there are parks and overlooks such as the Marin Headlands nearby.
- Dining: Sausalito has several seafood restaurants and casual cafés within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
In San Francisco, the Ferry Building itself is worth visiting for the farmer’s market (on certain days), food stalls, and shops. Also the Embarcadero boardwalk, nearby Wharves, or walking to explore the Financial District are feasible in the same trip.
FAQ
| What is the last ferry back from Sausalito to San Francisco? | On weekdays, the final return trips are at 6.30 pm. At weekends, it’s 6.55pm. Always check the current schedule for the date of your travel. |
| Can I buy tickets online in advance? | No – tickets are sold at terminal vending machines or via Clipper card/app. No fully online booking for single-ride tickets. |
| Do I need exact change for machines? | The machines accept credit card and Clipper; cash options are more limited. Using Clipper simplifies payment. |
| Is the ferry wheelchair accessible? | Yes, both terminals and the vessels provide accessibility features. Boarding ramps or lifts are used. |
| What if I’m bringing a bicycle? | Bikes are allowed but space is limited during busy times. If possible, plan bike usage ahead; some terminals manage bike reservations or lines. |
| Is there service late at night? | No. The last service typically departs San Francisco at 7.15PM on weekdays. If you miss the last ferry, alternative transport (bus, rideshare) is required. |
Planning ahead – and using Clipper, checking schedules, and knowing where to park or arrive – will make your San Francisco to Sausalito ferry trip go without a hitch.
More San Francisco travel
Other San Francisco travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Review of the Tonga Room tiki bar in San Francisco.
- Why the audioguide makes a visit to Alcatraz Island special.
- Embracing touristy San Francisco at Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Planning a visit to the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.
- What to know before visiting the California Academy of Sciences.
