Travel bucket list idea:
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)
Known for its strong winds, spectacular scenery, barking sea lions, and rich maritime history, the largest estuary in the U.S. already stands-out as a fine place to sail. Add showstopping landmarks the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to the mix, and you’ve surely got one of the world’s premier places to sail.
Suitable for all levels and ages, sailing here is a tranquil, sometimes exciting, means to soak up the views and take in the panoramic beauty of this extraordinary bay city.
If you have more time, there are sailing courses available too, designed to teach ‘you the ropes’ (pun intended). What better place to learn to sail?
Take a stroll along the Sausalito waterfront, which inspired singer Otis Redding to write his iconic hit song, (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay. Head to Venice Gourmet, an incredible delicatessen serving up everything from caprese sandwiches to hot pastrami and cheese. Dine onsite or have a waterfront picnic of your own.
Basic 1.5-hour sails with Adventure Cat and the San Francisco Sailing Company depart from Pier 39 (see Viator links below).
If you want something more imaginative – sunset or full moon cruises, picnics on Angel Island, and more interesting boats – head to SF Bay Adventures in Sausalito. If you want to learn to sail, try the Modern Sailing School & Club, also in Sausalito, which has beginner courses taught on 30-32-foot keelboats.
You can either drive over the Golden Gate Bridge (around 30 mins, no traffic) to Sausalito, take the direct Blue and Gold Fleet Ferry from Pier 41 in Fisherman’s Wharf (30 mins). Or cycle over the bridge.
Operators will provide some warm clothing e.g. jackets, if needed, but go prepared. It can get cold on the water, whatever the weather might seem, and temperatures on SF Bay can change in an instant.
You can sail all year round – obviously, it’s heavily weather dependent and pointless in fog. San Francisco has its clearest skies in March, September, and October.
The longer days of summer are best for watching the sunset below the Pacific. Sunset or full moon evening sails allow appreciation of the bridges and city skyline, lit up to dramatic effect.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
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