San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Entry Fee Included

A Scenic Day Exploring Muir Woods and Sausalito

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of some of the most picturesque spots just outside San Francisco. For $99 per person, you’ll spend about five hours crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, wandering among the towering coastal redwoods at Muir Woods, and exploring the charming waterfront town of Sausalito. With hotel pickup included, it’s convenient and designed for those wanting a taste of Northern California’s natural and artistic charms without the hassle of driving or planning every detail.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances nature and small-town charm—you get a chance to marvel at the enormous redwoods, and then stroll through Sausalito’s art-filled streets with spectacular views back toward the bay. Plus, the entry fee to Muir Woods is included, saving you a few dollars and streamlining the experience. The tour’s flexibility — including the option to extend your time in Sausalito via ferry or ride back at your leisure — makes it adaptable for different travel styles.

One thing to consider is the limited time at Muir Woods—just over an hour—and the cost of additional transportation if you want to stay longer in Sausalito. For travelers who love nature, photography, and small-town exploring, this tour hits the right notes. However, if you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth visit, or want to explore more of Sausalito’s shops and galleries, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This tour suits visitors who want a balanced, engaging day outside the city, especially those eager to see the redwoods up close and enjoy stunning bay views. It’s ideal for first-timers or anyone with a limited schedule who wants a quick but meaningful escape into the natural beauty that surrounds San Francisco.

Key Points

• Includes entry fee to Muir Woods, simplifying planning and saving money.
• Balanced itinerary with scenic drives, redwoods, and Sausalito’s art and waterfront.
• Hotel pickup makes logistics easier, especially for visitors staying in busy hotel districts.
• Limited time at Muir Woods might mean rushing if you love slow, in-depth exploration.
• Optional extra time in Sausalito available via ferry or ride back, at your own cost.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about the redwoods and local history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

The Scenic Drive and Golden Gate Bridge

Starting from your hotel (either in Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf), the tour kicks off with a comfortable pickup, usually between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, giving you a relaxed start to your day. As you cross the Golden Gate Bridge, expect photo stops at the northern vista point, where the views of the bay and San Francisco skyline are spectacular. We loved the way the guide pointed out key landmarks and shared stories about the bridge’s construction—these moments set a perfect tone for the day.

Driving above Sausalito, you’ll glimpse its quaint houses and yachts, which immediately convey a sense of maritime elegance. The route takes you through parts of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Mount Tamalpais State Park, landscapes that feel like a postcard. It’s a short but scenic journey that prepares you for the natural beauty of Muir Woods.

Muir Woods: The Redwoods’ Majesty

Arriving at Muir Woods National Monument, your guide will give pointers on how to best enjoy your visit. The main highlight, of course, is the enormous coastal redwoods, some of which are over 250 feet tall. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of these trees—how they are not only natural wonders but also integral to California’s ecological and cultural identity.

You’ll have about 1 hour and 20 minutes here, which is enough to see the main groves, snap some photos, and visit the visitor center or gift shop. Reviewers like Annalisa from Italy noted that “the redwoods are interesting,” but also felt the visit was somewhat rushed and costly for what was offered. That highlights a common trade-off with shorter guided tours: you get a snapshot rather than a leisurely hike. Still, the included entry fee is a bonus, saving you around $15 and removing one barrier to entry.

Sausalito: Art, Views, and Waterfront Charm

After Muir Woods, the tour continues to Sausalito, where you’ll have around an hour to explore. This picturesque town is famous for its art galleries, boutique shops, cafes, and waterfront restaurants. We enjoyed wandering among the galleries, which feature local artists and crafts, and stopping for a coffee with a view of yachts and houseboats.

From Sausalito, you’ll get views back toward the Bay Bridge, the East Bay, and San Francisco’s skyline, making it a perfect photo op. The guide may share stories about Saulalito’s history as a former fishing village turned artists’ haven, adding depth to your visit. If you prefer, you can opt to stay longer and return to San Francisco by ferry—this flexibility is a major plus, even if it’s at your own expense.

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The Return and Additional Options

Post-tour, the vehicle will drop you off at your hotel. If you wish to linger longer in Sausalito, you’ll need to organize your return, which can be done via ferry, Uber, or taxi. The tour provider recommends waiting outside the hotel during pickup and having your phone ready, helping keep things simple.

The Experience from the Guides and Reviews

The knowledgeable guides are often praised for their insights and friendly demeanor, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s storytelling, noting that it “enhanced the natural beauty and the history of the area.”

However, some travelers, like Annalisa, felt that the time constraints made the visit less satisfying—especially at Muir Woods where more time might allow for a deeper experience. She described the tour as “little time and too expensive for what it offered,” pointing to the importance of assessing whether you’re comfortable with a short but curated visit.

Price and Value

At $99 per person, including entry fees and hotel pickup, this tour offers a convenient and fairly priced way to enjoy some of the Bay Area’s most iconic sights. Comparing it to other experiences, it provides a cost-effective option—especially since the entry fee to Muir Woods is included, which can otherwise be $15 alone. However, the shorter duration means it’s more of a highlight tour than an immersive experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re looking for a quick, structured introduction to the natural beauty and waterfront charm of San Francisco’s surroundings, this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time, who want to see the redwoods and enjoy scenic views without the hassle of planning. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and a comfortable transportation setup.

Travelers who want a more leisurely, extended experience at Muir Woods or more time exploring Sausalito’s galleries may want to consider other options or extend their visit independently. For those eager to relax, take photos, and soak in the scenery, this tour hits a sweet spot.

The Sum Up

This guided tour strikes a good balance between ease and exploration. For $99, you get hotel pickup, a guided drive, and entry to Muir Woods, which are all significant conveniences. The stops at Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito add variety, combining nature, history, and artistry. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a taste of California’s natural and coastal beauty without fussing over logistics.

While the short time at Muir Woods might leave avid hikers wishing for more, most will find that the scenic drive, expert guide, and lovely town of Sausalito provide enough memorable moments. This tour is especially valuable for those curious about the redwoods and bay views but who also want a manageable, well-organized outing.

If you’re after a balanced, scenic, and convenient experience with a friendly guide leading the way, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a fast-paced visit and consider how much time you want to spend in Sausalito if you’re looking for a more relaxed day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels on Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, usually between 8:00 and 8:30 AM.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 5 hours, with the main stops at Muir Woods and Sausalito, plus the scenic drive.

What is included in the price?
The price covers your hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guide, and the entry fee to Muir Woods ($15).

Can I stay longer in Sausalito?
Yes, you can opt to stay in Sausalito after the tour, but you will need to arrange and pay for your return via ferry or Uber.

What if I want more time at Muir Woods?
The tour allows about 1 hour and 20 minutes at Muir Woods, which is enough for a brief visit. For more time, consider extending your visit independently.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the scenic nature and manageable schedule suggest it could work well for families, especially those interested in nature and art.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore the gift shop or walk around Sausalito. Don’t forget your phone or camera for photos!

What if the weather is bad?
Check the forecast and dress accordingly; the tour operates rain or shine, but heavy weather could impact views and activities.

This guided tour offers a straightforward way to experience some of the Bay Area’s most treasured sights, perfect for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a well-curated itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: