Muir Woods Sausalito Entry & Ferry to Fishermans Wharf included

Experience the best of San Francisco’s scenic highlights in one day with this well-rounded tour that combines natural wonders, charming towns, and iconic landmarks. For $110 per person, you’ll spend approximately 6 to 8 hours exploring from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, with several stops designed to show off the city’s most photogenic spots. Highlights include Muir Woods’ towering coast redwoods, the picturesque waterfront of Sausalito, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge, topped off with a ferry ride back to Fisherman’s Wharf.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how stress-free it is to have the entrance fees and ferry tickets included in the price, removing the hassle of separate bookings. The tour is also tailored to give you ample time at each stop—not feeling rushed—which can sometimes happen on busy day trips. Plus, the knowledgeable guides provide interesting commentary, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

However, a consideration worth noting is that the ferry back from Sausalito might not always operate, as was the case during a holiday period, which can slightly alter the itinerary. Also, the tour size is capped at 28 travelers, ensuring it’s not too crowded but still a good-sized group for socializing. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that balances scenic drives, nature, and charming local towns without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

If you love stunning views, natural forests, and a touch of local flavor, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer organized, hassle-free excursions that include some of San Francisco’s most celebrated sights plus a taste of nearby natural beauty.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience with transportation, entrance fees, and ferry included for ease and value.
• Leisurely pace allows ample time at each location—no rushing through the highlights.
• Beautiful scenic drives across the Golden Gate Bridge and through Marin County for breathtaking views.
• Authentic local towns like Sausalito offer art, good food, and waterfront charm.
• Expert guides make the journey informative and engaging.
• Flexible return options with a ferry ride back, offering a different perspective of San Francisco from the water.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting off in San Francisco

The tour kicks off bright and early at Pier 41, located on The Embarcadero, which is easy to reach from downtown or Fisherman’s Wharf. We loved the way the guide narrated the city’s layout—passing landmarks like the Palace of Fine Arts, which has historic significance from the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, and the Presidio, with its blend of natural beauty and military history. This city drive helps set context and build excitement for the day ahead.

The 30-minute drive through San Francisco’s distinctive neighborhoods offers a chance to appreciate the city’s varied architecture and natural geography, all while listening to stories about its recovery from the 1906 earthquake.

Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge

The highlight for many is the short stop at Vista Point on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of the bridge spanning the bay, with the Marin Headlands to the west and downtown San Francisco shimmering in the distance. The orange-red hue of the bridge, designed for visibility in fog, looks especially dramatic from this vantage point.

The photo opportunities are endless. You might find yourself trying to capture the perfect shot of the bridge with the city or the surrounding coastline. The guide, often sharing interesting tidbits about the bridge’s construction, helps you appreciate this engineering marvel’s history and significance.

While the stop is brief—around 10 minutes—it’s enough to soak in the view and snap some photos. Some visitors, as noted in reviews, wish for more time here, but the quick visit keeps the day moving smoothly.

Marin County and the Drive to Muir Woods

Next, the scenic drive through Marin County treats you to views of Richardson Bay, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Mount Tamalpais. The guide offers insights into the area’s natural beauty and its historical importance, especially during WWII when Sausalito was a shipbuilding hub.

This segment is a great preview of what’s to come at Muir Woods. The 25-minute drive offers photo stops and a chance to appreciate the lush, hilly landscape of Marin County.

Exploring Muir Woods National Monument

The star of the tour is Muir Woods, a designated National Monument known for its towering coast redwoods—some of the tallest trees on Earth. Named after naturalist John Muir, this old-growth forest spans 240 acres of protected wilderness. We loved the cool, moist atmosphere, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, often shrouded in fog. It’s a peaceful, almost magical place where you can stroll through shaded paths and marvel at trees that have stood for hundreds, if not thousands, of years.

Your ticket includes about 1 hour and 20 minutes here, which is enough time for a gentle walk and to appreciate the forest’s grandeur. The reviews reflect this positive experience, with some wishing for more time to really explore the trails.

Sausalito: Art, Food, and Waterfront Charm

After Muir Woods, the tour heads to Sausalito, a town renowned for its stunning bay views, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. The history of Sausalito, from a ferry hub to a WWII shipyard to a bohemian houseboat community, adds layers of character.

Most travelers spend around three hours here, providing time to browse galleries, enjoy a seafood lunch, or simply relax by the waterfront. The scenery is truly picture-perfect, with views of the bay, the San Francisco skyline, and the Bay Bridge. Several reviews mention Sausalito as “one of the most beautiful small cities in America,” and that’s not an exaggeration.

The Ferry Ride Back

The final leg is a 30-minute ferry ride from Sausalito back to Pier 41. The water shuttle offers a different perspective of the city’s skyline, bridges, and bay area. Passengers often find this a highlight, enjoying the ocean air and panoramic views.

However, it’s worth noting that in some cases, like during a holiday, the ferry may not operate—something to keep in mind if you’re planning your trip during busy times. The tour operator was praised for providing tickets in advance and making sure guests had options, whether by ferry or return by van.

Practical Considerations

The price of $110 covers most essentials, including transportation, entrance fees, and the ferry. The added value of included tickets removes the hassle of separate bookings, especially helpful during busy tourist seasons. Bottled water is provided, and the guides are known for their professionalism and knowledge, which enhances the experience.

The group size, capped at 28, strikes a good balance—small enough for personal attention but large enough for a lively atmosphere. The tour departs at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to enjoy these iconic sights.

One small drawback, echoed in reviews, is that the ferry may not always run—a reminder to check seasonal schedules if you’re committed to this element of the tour. Also, some travelers wish they had more time at specific stops, such as Muir Woods, but the schedule is designed to cover multiple highlights comfortably.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of San Francisco’s surrounding natural and cultural sites without the hassle of organizing individual tickets. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfortable transportation and guided commentary, enriching the visit with local insights.

It’s also ideal if you’re keen on nature—the towering redwoods are unforgettable—and if you enjoy charming towns like Sausalito with their art, food, and waterfront views. Travelers who want a balance of scenic drives and leisure time in a small town setting will find this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is the ferry back from Sausalito included in the tour?
Yes, the ferry ticket is included in the price, providing a scenic, relaxed way to return to San Francisco. However, during certain holidays or busy times, the ferry may not operate, so it’s worth confirming in advance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including all stops, drives, and the ferry ride. It starts at 8:00 am and typically concludes in the late afternoon or early evening.

Can I customize the time at each stop?
The schedule is designed to give you enough time to enjoy each attraction without feeling rushed, but some reviews suggest that more time at Muir Woods would improve the experience.

Are entrance fees and tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes the entrance fee to Muir Woods and the ferry ticket from Sausalito back to San Francisco, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, allowing for a comfortable and engaging experience without feeling crowded.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved in Muir Woods and the uneven terrain. Service animals are allowed, but it’s best to check specific needs with the tour provider.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and charming towns—ideal for those looking for a relaxed, informative day outside the city hustle. With included tickets, guided insights, and scenic transport, it provides good value while allowing you to enjoy some of the best scenery just outside San Francisco.