25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Sausalito (California)

A Sausalito visit is popularly associated with taking cute pictures and having a nice lunch on the waterfront.

Needless to say, this bay area between Oakland and San Francisco has much more than these to offer

With just over 7,000 people living in Sausalito, it gives the small-town feel of home with much love.

Although its discovery history points to individuals with free-flowing money, your visit currently doesn’t have to break the bank.

With that in mind, Sausalito is a perfect family vacation idea.

The tour is a mix of hiking, beach experience, museums, and historic preserves.

Without a doubt, Sausalito stands proud and even flaunts its military history with a lot of batteries and forts.

Impressively, not only is marine life preservation also important but so is the wood life preserve at Muir.

To save you from guessing what next to expect, we compiled a list of fun experiences below.

Things to Do in Sausalito

1. Golden Gate Bridge

It seems nothing good truly comes easy, as you will gather from the story of the Golden Gate Bridge.

A rocky shoreline, turbulent waters, and no hint of an opening obscured the golden gate from treasure hunters for centuries.

With only a mile-wide opening three miles from the Pacific, the gate went unnoticed until 230 years after the first Spanish ship sailed by.

For years after its discovery, the only way across this bay was by ferry, and this quickly became a lucrative business.

In fact, before making history in 1930, attempting a bridge across was termed an impossible feat and not just due to environmental factors.

However, it didn’t help that there were harsh environmental conditions adding to the inherent challenge of the channel’s width and depth.

In the long run, inputs from Joseph Strauss, Leon Moisseiff, Irving Morrow, and Charles Alton led to the bridge as we know it today.

Among other fun facts, the bridge’s construction has a lot of famous history to its credit.

Some of these facts show a high ranking for ingenuity and progress.

Since its existence serves as a stepping stone for greater structures, its debut in 1937 tops a lot of impressive lists.

Address: San Francisco, CA, United States

2. Bay Model Visitor Center

In summary, John Reber’s plan was to completely remodel the San Francisco bay.

This basically meant dams, industries, and a military fort to create lakes, move people safely, and provide drinking water.

As glamourous and enticing as this sounded to all the people that mattered, it was a dangerous plan.

The reasons for this conclusion?

The Bay Model Visitor Center is basically the how while the why is in the details.

In the 1950s, the nation’s army corps of engineers set out to study the hydrodynamics of the entire San Francisco Bay Area and the waterways feeding it from the mountains and central valley of California.

To do this, a bay model built in Sausalito simulating various conditions and details was instrumental to the work.

After three years and a lot of manpower, the model was proof Reber’s plan was a billion-dollar disaster.

At the end of this task, the model had gathered enough data to continue subsequent simulations using a computer.

To date, this research tool is still operational, although it is no longer instrumental.

Today, its beauty, history, and scientific testament account for thousands of visitors annually.

It opens between 9 am and 4 pm from Tuesday till Friday.

On Saturdays, it is open from 10 am to 5 pm.

Address: 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, United States

3. Bay Area Discovery Museum

What better way for a kid to learn than when they are not actively trying to?

Especially when all they think they are doing is making memories with their parents and friends while overcoming challenging but possible tasks.

This fundamental rule of fun in early childhood learning is how the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito stays relevant.

It recognizes and applies the philosophy that children are their own best teachers.

As such, interactions to stir up their imagination and curiosity are the most powerful tools.

Hence, exhibits at the museum range from early STEM experiences and arts to other hands-on experiences demystifying their immediate environment.

These immersive exhibits go a long way in boosting their confidence while giving them a sense of accomplishment.

Located in a repurposed army base, the museum has been preserving its strong ties to nature and history since 1987.

In fact, as a specialty museum, there is no visit to Sausalito for your preschoolers without a visit to BADM.

What can the remaining members of the family discover at the bay area discovery museum in Sausalito?

A summarized list will include new interests, connecting with the outdoors, and making memories.

Opening hours run between 10 am and 4 pm from Wednesday to Sunday.

Address: 557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito, CA, United States

4. Battery Spencer

By now, it is a known fact the golden gate bridge is the most photographed bridge.

If this is your reason for a visit to Sausalito, battery spencer will give you the best angle there is for your photograph.

Since it is located on fort baker, it provides an amazing view of not only the bridge but also of the bay.

Although the battery itself is currently a vestige of a bygone era, it was once a necessary construction.

The Battery Spenser was a military coastal fortification meant to house guns and protect troops in the early 1900.

This is not the only battery in the area, but it by far gives the classic golden gate view.

Being one of the best observation points in the area, this historic harbor defense point offers a scenic view of its environment in light of a historic era.

It is usually windy, so you will want to go along with a jacket.

It is always open except on Monday when it is only open from 6 am till 5 pm.

Address: Conzelman Rd, Sausalito, CA, United States

5. Point Bonita Lighthouse

This lighthouse was built in 1855 to guide ships through the golden gate straits.

Initially sitting beautifully on a cliff above its current location for years, that location was impractical and difficult for mariners to see.

Hence, in 1877, it came to be in its current location.

This movement did not come without some silver linings like the hand-dug tunnel and the suspension bridge that now highlight the location.

Although it is the third of its kind on the west coast, its maintenance is still active with the U.S coast guard.

In fact, its label as the secret jewel of the bay area is evident in its wild landscape, geology, and history.

To say the least, your arrival at the Point Bonita Lighthouse will leave you elated.

However, the journey there is more intriguing.

This scenic and entertaining build-up to a sentinel over a century old makes it a memorable and fun family outing idea.

Your trip goes along a trail proffering a leisurely walk of about half a mile and offers more than just the view of nature untamed.

Also, there are various spots on the way with makers for a cell phone tour of this Sausalito historic jewel.

Once at the lighthouse, there are so many interpretive exhibits and photos of its early service days to go through for a relatively limited time

It opens from Thursday to Monday from 9:30 am to 3:30 am.

Address: San Francisco Bay entrance in the Marin Headlands, Sausalito, CA, United States

6. Downtown Sausalito

The English translation of the Spanish word Sausalito is a “small willow grove”.

This city, which was famous for its industrial character during WWII, became reputable for wealthy and artistic enclaves afterward.

Now, Sausalito is home to a lot of unique and interesting landmarks.

Some of these landmarks embody the history of Sausalito, while others define entertainment in this city.

Notably, a large amount of these landmarks or, better still, tourist attractions are right here in downtown Sausalito.

A downtown tour takes visitors through the past and present in light of a futuristic Sausalito.

Take a walk across repurposed buildings, monuments from proud indigenes, inns, hotels and spas, bars, shopping and dining areas, and lots more.

While at it, explore the marina docks to appreciate all there is to see beyond the ocean.

Eventually, a classic downtown Sausalito experience is somewhere between its nightlife, charming enclaves, and special events.

One important stop not to miss during your tour, though, is tasting why people always have ice cream in Sausalito no matter the weather.

Without a doubt, downtown Sausalito is eye candy to travel lovers.

Having said that, being a beauty between Muir woods and golden gate bridge is not all this quaint town along the bay has to offer.

Address: Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, United States

7. Rodeo Beach, Sausalito

What is a Sausalito vacation without its beaches?

Specifically, without a visit to its famous Rodeo Beach

For one, it is definitely a trip without seeing the pebbly semi-precious stones.

Whether or not you think the use of the word semi is to appear conservative, you will love sorting through jasper, black agate, jade, and carnelian among the beach sand.

In addition to its unique mineral composition, its lagoon and picturesque surrounding set it apart.

Skimboarding, photography, aviary watching, and obviously beach combing are popular activities in the area.

The rodeo beach in Sausalito is also famous for surfing and sunbathing among locals and visitors.

However, for reasons you will only appreciate during your visit, swimming at the rodeo beach is not advisable.

Even when it tries to be similar to other attractions in Sausalito featuring things like a battery and trail, it effortlessly still tops the views chart.

Not to say its battery and trail lack any of the classic histories and viewing perks that come with a tour.

In fact, battery Townsley, hill 88, the coastal trail, Fort Barry, and Fort Cronkhite are great historical landmarks for a reason.

At the end of your visit, a simple description of the rodeo beach will probably feature words like “must see in one’s lifetime”.

Address: Sausalito, California, United States

8. Old St. Hilary’s Preserve

This iconic landmark was constructed in 1888 as a missions church.

In itself, the building is a significant architectural piece, as its gothic style still survives in its original setting.

Following suit, its interior lends credence to the story that it was built by Tiburon railroad workers.

After a new St. Hilary’s catholic church was built on the Tiburon peninsula in 1954, this old church was deconsecrated and practically abandoned.

In its new state, it was still hosting some local activities, but there was zero maintenance coming in.

After vandalism almost rendered it a building without windows, the archdiocese of san Francisco stepped in to sell what was left.

Salvaging the building was supposed to make up for the annual deficit of the new saint Hilary’s parish.

In 1959, the Belvedere-Tiburon landmark society took title to the building and its grounds.

Following this, only a year later, in October, the Old Saint Hilary church became a historical monument.

Renovations following its purchase brought restoration and also highlighted features like its acoustics and ambiance that were once the pride of the building.

Although some of its current interior furnishings are original to the building, the donation of others is courtesy of local residents.

One such donation is the needlepoint pew cushions which feature local wildflowers.

Living no stone or in this case, no ground unrestored, its surrounding grounds were not left out of restoration.

In fact, it is allegedly one of the most beautiful wildflower gardens in California.

It is only open on Sunday from 1 pm till 4 pm.

Address: 2000 Vistazo St W, Belvedere Tiburon, CA, United States

9. Tennessee Valley Trailhead

This is usually one of those hidden treasures even locals stumble upon.

Now, you know about it!

Tennessee valley trailhead gives rise to several trails of well-groomed paths in the area.

Most of these trails are, however, easily accessible on foot, by bike, or on horseback.

With these many trails to pick from, it is interesting to note you cannot go wrong with any trail you decide on.

In the end, you do not want to miss exploring the trail leading to the beach.

This is because its hiking mode is generally considered the easiest.

Tennessee Valley is an offshoot of the marine headlands, and this trailhead is the starting point of a 1.7-mile distance to the Tennessee beach.

Hence, it is a popular family hiking destination in Sausalito.

Nonetheless, the ever-changing valley vegetation is a scenic companion all the way.

Not to bore its visitors with lush vegetation, it also features wildlife both on four legs and with wings.

Unfortunately, fur babies on a leash or otherwise are not allowed on most of these trails and parking fills up easily.

Even more interesting is the fact that all this peace and relaxing energy is only about 20 minutes from the San Francisco metropolis.

Address: 591 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, CA, United States

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10. Remington Dog Park, Sausalito

This park is everything your paw will ever wish for.

The park credits its name to the honor of its founder’s Lab, Remington.

Historically, this has been a get-together spot for canine pals since 1991.

In 1999, when it gained fame, the park also peaked in passionate volunteers and donations and has stayed relevant that way since then.

Hence, the one-acre park’s maintenance comes from the ever-growing friends of the Sausalito dog park.

The Remington Dog Park divides into play zones for big and small dogs featuring dogs free of leashes.

The play area is even complete with clean-up bags and water bowls.

While the dogs are busy being the center of attraction, benches and shade trees are available for guardians to enjoy the show.

Since this community park naturally attracts dog lovers in their numbers, this is usually a fun time for not only the dogs.

In fact, apart from being a canine bonding session, it is a popular family picnic or outing destination in Sausalito.

However, since it almost always features a barking contest, individuals indifferent to dogs may get overwhelmed.

Opening hours every day are from 7 am to 8 pm.

Address: 100 Ebbtide Ave, Sausalito, CA, United States

11. Nike Missile Site SF-88L

This is just one of about 300 Nike missile sites built during the America cold war.

Specifically, Nike Missile Site SF-88L was at fort barry in north San Fransisco, California.

Its function at the time was to defend America against soviet attacks through nuclear missiles caring aircraft.

Nike (the Greek goddess of victory) was specifically designed for shooting such types of aircraft out of the sky.

Originally equipped with Nike Ajax missiles in 1954, modifications in 1958 to the site added Nike Hercules missiles.

Although they could only travel about 80 to 100 miles, the power of the nuclear warheads exceeded what was used to end WWII.

In fact, for their timeline, these were nothing short of high-tech operating systems even fitted with radar detections.

In essence, coupled with the American war history, here is the evidence of the nation’s technological advancement even before the tech boom.

The preservation of this site in Sausalito reminds visitors of the site and the effect of the cold war on the American landscape.

Hence, this site that was officially closed in 1974 features actual decommissioned Nike missiles.

The only other thing to top these artifacts is the stories from onsite veterans.

This is if you do not intend to count the fact that it is a completely free entry.

It opens from Thursday to Saturday from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

Address: Mill Valley, CA, United States

12. Muir Beach Overlook

If you want an overview of Sausalito before starting your tour, you just found the right spot.

The overlook is off the road and north of the beach

One of the popular pointers to this overlook is its iconic staircase, which constitutes almost the entirety of its journey.

Upon arriving at this beach overlook, you will understand why it is an important visit while in California.

Although this overlook was in use since WWII, soldiers were definitely not here for the exceptional coastal views.

Hence not only is this a relaxing and chilly beauty between the sky and the sea, but it is also a historic landmark.

Its WWII timeline story features artifacts like bunkers and dugouts.

From the Muir Beach Overlook, san Francisco is just south of you, Stinson beach is north and the Pacific Ocean is in front of you.

However, if you are more of a wildlife person, you just found a Sausalito favorite spot.

Hence, two things you will love to be within reach during your visit are a pair of binoculars and a camera.

In addition to the peculiar features of the overlook is its proximity to the beach and surrounding hiking trails.

It is always open and accessible

Address: Parking lot, Muir Beach Overlook, Muir Beach, CA, United States

13. Green Gulch Farm Zen Center

According to Fenton Johnson, this farm “serves as a model for living on the land in the context of a Zen Buddhist practice”.

For a death wish, in 1971, a father had asked his son to look for a farm near the bay where people like himself could live together.

This father was a Zen Buddhist by the name of Shunryu Suzuki.

His son Zentatsu Richard Baker found a 115-acre site in a valley 17 miles north of san Francisco called the green gulch farm in 1972.

As this was seen as a perfect location for this new communal living, it was purchased but not without some binding commitment to the seller.

As part of the terms for selling, the Zen center was to keep the location accessible publicly and engage in agricultural awareness.

Since this term was even in agreement with their communal philosophy, the land changed ownership in the spring of 1972.

Over the years, some environmentally friendly equipment like the first composting toilet gives credit to the Green Gulch Farm Zen Center.

Hence, in addition to a Buddhist retreat, the center operates about 9 acres of organic vegetable farm, and an herb and flower garden.

This way, the farm sustains the food supply of the community will be enough to trade.

Its nursery and gardens are open with classes on gardening in detail.

Since the site is within the boundaries of the golden gate national recreation area, there is also much wildlife to see.

The center also holds events, Japanese tea ceremonies, apprentice programs, and classes on Buddhist practice and philosophy.

There are also lodges on site even for large families.

It is open every day from 9 am to 5:30 pm.

Address: 1601 Shoreline Hwy, Muir Beach, CA, United States

14. Blackie’s Pasture

Even in death Blackie still puts a smile on the faces of those visiting a pasture he called home for 28 years.

Blackie is a horse born in Kansas in 1926.

From being in the Calvary at Yosemite to working in rodeo in his youth, at age 12, he became too sway-backed to work anymore.

It was at this time he came with pride and grace to live in this private pasture.

While at this pasture, visitors of all age groups came to know and love him.

Visits were so frequent that it quickly became popular knowledge that he had a preference for carrots and apples.

When he collapsed on February 27, 1966, it was a sad day, but everyone who knew Blackie could not be happier the horse lived for 40 years.

Thanks to the bronze sculpture funded by the family of Gordon Strawbridge and sculpted by Albert Guibara in 1995, no one is likely to forget Blackie the horse any time soon.

However, Blackie’s Pasture also has a train history that even precedes Blackie.

In fact, the Trestle trail above Blackie’s pasture resembling a rail track pays tribute to its railroad history.

75 beautiful and informative plaques partition its total distance of  600 feet into portions of 6 feet.

Also, the borders of the trail bear local California garden favorites and sitting spots to take in all of nature.

There are also vintage artifacts, wildflowers, picnic tables, anecdotes, photos, and a railway gift at the end of the trail.

Just think of whatever you need in a park to keep the kids entertained and the guardians pleasantly engaged and you can now define this location.

It opens from 6:30 am till 8:30 pm every day.

Address: 654 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon, CA, United States

15. Landmarks China Cabin

This Victorian reception room is one of four historic properties restored by the Belvedere-Tiburon landmarks society.

It is a social saloon from the transpacific side wheeler P.S China built-in 1866.

This is a ship that was launched from the William Webb shipyard in New York on the 8^th of December, 1866.

Commissioning the ship to service the route between san Francisco and Asia, the United States Postal Service saw to the flow of information and people.

Unfortunately, by 1879, iron hull vessels came into regular use and vessels with wood hulls like P.S china lost relevance.

With only 30 round trips to Yokohama and Hong Kong, P.S china came to the end of its career.

In 1886, the steamer was to be burned for scrap metal, but not before its interior furnishing was removed intact.

This salvaged part of the ship took on new life as a weekend home on shore for 90 years and was given the name China Cabin.

After surviving a painstaking restoration to exemplify a realistic 19th-century shipbuilding for 8 years, it was finished in 1986.

With a magnificent bayside setting, it is not only a popular historic landmark but also a great backdrop for the best pictures.

Now it stands proud as a tribute to William Webb and Victorian-era shipbuilding.

It opens from 9 am till 1 pm on Monday till Thursday.

Address: 52 Beach Rd, Belvedere Tiburon, CA, United States

16. Hawk Hill, Sausalito

As long as birds of prey continue to exist, bird watching will continue to be an interesting hobby in Sausalito.

If you are already a bird watcher and will like to meet like-minded folks who also love it, welcome!

Furthermore, if you need to sell the idea of bird watching, beautiful scenery, and a view of nature undisturbed, this is a great vantage point.

Its 360-degree views extend to other attractions in the area, which is why it is a popular spot for making the decision of where next to visit in Sausalito.

On a clear day, you can get clear views as far as the golden gate bridge, san Francisco bay and skyline, and Alcatraz.

Hence, its use during the threats of WWII for guns and Nike defense radars stands to reason.

Although the guns and radar are long gone, the footprints of its history are etched in concrete military structures.

Interestingly, Hawk Hill is not all about the destination, as the way to the spot has a lot to offer, even on a foggy day.

The journey of a short walk goes through a tunnel, down a few stairs, and up a path to the hill.

Hawk hill gives a great view of different species of hawk migrating in the fall and beautiful butterflies.

Other birds of prey like falcons, eagles, kites, and vultures are also within sight from this hill, especially in autumn.

It is always open and accessible.

Address: Conzelman Rd, Sausalito, CA, United States

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17. Black Sands Beach, Sausalito

The Marin headlands were once home to the American military.

Its time as a defense fort is evident by batteries and observation structures.

However, it is not without a fair share of scenic overlooks and lovely beaches.

The black Sand’s beach is usually a reward for your hike from above the golden gate bridge to sea level.

The journey to the beach has enough military diversions and views to keep you entertained.

If you get on that dirt road with the stirs though, black sands beach is now your destination.

With a welcoming view and ambiance second to none, pictures and lovely videos are usually the first things to do at black sands beach.

Also, there are a lot of giant gorgeous petrified glistening boulders to see and some sea life too.

If you go over the rocks to the west side, you will arrive at a part of the beach where clothing is optional.

However, on this arrival side of the beach is a lot more to explore and you can always opt for peaceful relaxation.

At high tide, the beach becomes narrow, so check tide charts and relax away from tide areas.

Address: Conzelman Rd Sausalito, California, United States

18. Muir Woods National Monument

Right here in Sausalito, California, and within the boundaries of the golden gate recreation area, is a haven for the world’s tallest living things.

Muir Woods National Monument protects its 554 acres so that it can protect life.

240 acres of this land are of old-growth coast redwood forests.

The old-growth redwood forest as it suggests features at least 400 years old coast redwoods that have never been cut.

These coast redwoods are the world’s tallest living things since they are roughly the height of a 25-story building.

More than the obviously giant trees, this forest life thrives on its cool Pacific Ocean fog.

Its plant and animal communities showcase a life of dependence and shared responsibility in the production of something worthwhile.

As the trees provide shade in the sky, the forest floor houses generations of species some of which are not common.

If you think this is like a walking pilgrimage through the woods, you are not far from the truth.

Dedicating it in 1908 to John Muir was to give credit to his unrelenting and timely advocacy to preserve America’s special places in a time of logging industry boom.

The monument is the fruit of his passionate stance fueled by a land donation from congressman William Kent.

Now, the Muir woods national monument is a sure spot for some remarkable sights that obviously age well.

It opens from 8 am till 8 pm.

Address: Mill Valley, CA, United States

19. Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary

This bird sanctuary in the southern marine consists of a tidal bay and land in the San Francisco bay area.

Specifically, it showcases oak woodlands, hilltop views of San Francisco and Richardson bay, beaches, and historic landmarks.

Although the sanctuary spans 10 acres, its list of activities does not feel cramped up.

Historically, these 10 acres were once home to goats and a rancher lady.

Although hard-pressed for money at the time, she was willing to donate the property to the Audubon center.

The only term for the donation was to have a particular 1867 Victorian house moved to the land.

Agreements were made and in the 1950s, the Lyford house came to the sanctuary.

The house maintains most of its details from before the trip, plus a facelift and a couple of restorations.

Since 1964, Audubon conducts docent tours of the historic landmark and maintains stewardship of it.

The Audubon center also protects the bay and sanctuary for birds as a vital stop on the Pacific flyway.

With years of effective habitat conservation and community engagement to be proud of, there is always more to fun at this location.

The Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary is the meeting spot for curious kids and adults alike.

It has a trail wrapping around the sanctuary as it features the different ecosystems obtainable in the bay area.

Opening hours from Monday to Friday run between 9 am and 5 pm.

Address: 376 Greenwood Beach Rd, Tiburon, CA, United States

20. The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito

This is a specialty hospital in Sausalito, California.

With a growing number of marine mammals, California sea lions, and different species of seals, it is the largest Marine Mammal hospital globally.

The center sections into areas for the big seals, observation for the patients, an exhibit hall, a conservation cove, and a gift shop.

You can wander its grounds during a tour to understand the inner workings of the hospital or opt for a docent tour.

This private nonprofit care home in Sausalito is the headquarters of a rescue and release mission for marine mammals.

Since 1975, mammals that are ill, injured, or abandoned are taken in for rehabilitation until they are well enough for release.

Separation from a mother even before weaning termed abandonment is hard on any mammal and, as such, the work done at this center is indispensable.

Its prompt actions are propelled by calls from concerned and observant individuals to its rescue hotline.

After every rescue, comes dedicated veterinary care and attention.

At the end of their stay, these animals are released back into their natural habitat.

Exceeding 23,000 mammal rescues, the marine mammal center now adds research and educational events to its list of activities.

Opening hours every day is from 10 am to 4 pm.

Address: 2000 Bunker Rd, Sausalito, CA, United States

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21. Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum

Like Sausalito, Tiburon is a nice suburb in Marin county and not more than 10 miles away from it.

Tiburon is a famous railroad town with artifacts from its train era to be proud of.

Although the rail hub was established in 1884, freight and passenger traffic in the town peaked in the year 1909.

However, the last train left point Tiburon on September 25^th, 1967.

Today, Tiburon’s rail history lives on in miniature.

Specifically, the Tiburon Railroad and Ferry Museum stewards a detailed scale model of that peak period.

Tiburon railroad and ferry depot museum has been in existence since 1995.

The Donahue building, which is the main serving structure from the railroad, has been housing this museum since then.

The model, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, covers 400 square feet as opposed to the actual 43 acres covered by the Tiburon railyard.

Otherwise, this model faithfully recreates the rail yard in 1909.

It detail includes the maintenance roundhouse, the mainline going north, the quarry line, the ferryboat, the paint shop, gallows lines, homes, main street Tiburon, trains, and even passengers and freight.

Obviously, when Tiburon says faithfully, it means just that because not even train noises are left out of the model.

Address: 1920 Paradise Dr, Tiburon, CA, United States

22. Sausalito Art Festival

This is one of the premier art festivals in the country.

It holds along the beautiful scene of the Sausalito waterfront on labor day weekend.

This strategic location ensures a great view of the ocean as California’s golden sun rises and sets.

For decades and still counting, the Sausalito Art Festival annually creates a platform for hundreds of artists to display their craft through a variety of mediums.

The festival highlights the excellency of Sausalito in art, culture, and hospitality

Far from what its name suggests, the festival goes beyond just what to display.

It includes what to eat, drink, sway to, and even what to wear.

Interestingly, Sausalito is popular as a tourist destination in the area and this festival explains why.

The town in no wise limits itself when it comes to having a good time, as is obtainable at this festival

Simply put, the Sausalito art festival is a feast for all your senses, especially for newcomers.

Impressively and noteworthy, is that the art festival foundation gives back immensely to the community.

So while having a good time at the festival is Sausalito’s gift to you, your attendance is a gift to its art community.

Address: 2400 Bridgeway #220, Sausalito, CA, United States

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23. Seaplane Adventures

When someone thought of phrasing “what is worth doing is worth doing well”, they were probably referring to Seaplane Adventures.

Back in 1945, originally under the ownership of a veteran sea pilot, it was known as a commodore seaplane.

From that time till its sale in the year 2012, the sea base was in continuous operation.

It was once the largest flight school in the country, then the largest regional air carrier serving lake Tahoe, and then a rehearsal space.

Its revamping and rebranding to seaplane adventures came in 2012 when Aaron Singer bought the company.

Your tour is at least 45 minutes aboard a 6-passenger seaplane starting from the Sausalito village waterfront community.

However, even if you are in the city, you can take a shuttle from pier 39 to the boarding village.

Having established a maximum number of passengers at once, a minimum of two passengers can also safely board.

From sea to air, a panoramic view of the bay areas, Alcatraz, downtown, island, wharf, Muir woods, and golden gate bridge awaits.

The guided air tour can either be on a Cessna 172 Skyhawk or a DHC-Beaver, but it is definitely an enlightening one.

With knowledgeable pilots who have mastered the art of offering a thrilling navigation experience, your safe landing in Sausalito will seemingly come too soon.

Visit their website for an easy and hassle-free booking today.

It is open from Thursday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm.

Address: 242 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, CA, United States

24. Sausalito Home Boat Tours

As far back as the 1880s, waterfront living in arks was already in vogue.

As opposed to being called Home Boats in recent years, the arks were so-called because of the way they were designed.

By design, the arks should float on the bay water at high tide, sit on the mudflats at low tide and come ashore in winter.

These warm-weather recreational boats were adapted for full-time residential use after the earthquake and fire of 1906.

This living area expanded to the liberty shipyards in the 1960s after WWII, which led to a period of “houseboat wars” in 1970.

Eventually, much-needed permission for about 400 floating home boats in five specific residential marinas was obtained.

Since that time, the generations of artists, photographers, writers, and even entrepreneurs that have lived and walked this area have evidence to show the inspiration it brings.

Located in the Waldo point harbor, it is always an exciting experience to see and explore such beautiful architecture lining the pier.

Not only is this a great stop, but it is also a great stay as there are houseboats also for rent.

Address: 47 S Forty Pier Marinship, Sausalito, CA, United States

Already developing an interest in the landmarks and scenic views of California? Here are lists of the best options for that in San Luis Obispo, West Covina, and Victorville!

25. Bar Bocce, Sausalito

This Italian waterfront goodness is steadily becoming a get-together spot for happy diners in Sausalito.

As part of the real restaurant’s group 13-territory empire, Bar Bocce seats over 50 people at the Sausalito waterfront.

The place renders both bar and restaurant services on a platter dashed with hospitality and personable service.

However, its ambiance of cedar-rich interior and back patio overlooking a fire pit and ball court is eye candy.

Specifically, it is a pergola-covered fire pit and a granite-sanded 55”by10” bocce ball court fully lit!

What a view, right?

Interestingly, its stellar sourdough crust pizza is something to talk about, yet this is not even the best it offers.

From breakfast pie to pork sausage and lasagna, bar bocce aims to define detail and exquisite taste.

That’s still not all.

Ever tasted a “Winesicle”?

If not, it will interest you to know they also hand out homemade winesicles, mix beer cocktails, and have 12 cask wines on tap.

The view is great, and the fun keeps growing. All you need to do is visit when Sausalito.

It is open every day from 11:30 am to 10 pm

Address: 1250 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA, United States

 

Final Remarks

Sausalito is widely considered a suburb of san Francisco located a few miles from the area.

With its reputation as a wealthy and artistic enclave, this is a very scenic tourist destination.

Although its golden gate bridge is probably its priced possession, a visit to the town unravels a lot of hidden gems.

Since a lot of its attractions are close to the water, it is with ease you get to explore the town.

If you do not love being so close to the water, it is a good thing it has other interesting options away from this area.

New hobbies await you in this quaint town, so where would you be starting your tour?

Safe travels!