Curator’s statement
Sausalito is the Bay Area's best-kept open secret—a houseboat-lined harbor town just across the Golden Gate Bridge that somehow feels a world away from San Francisco's pace. It was a stop on our larger coastal California trip, and it ended up being one of our family's favorite mornings of the whole itinerary. We went in spring with our two kids and some exploratory energy—no rush and no checklist. It's a place that rewards slowing down: a glass of wine with a bay view, a walk up into the hills spotting wildflowers and palm trees, a sea lion sighting you didn't even have to try for. This is Sausalito the way our family experiences travel—unhurried, a little indulgent, and full of small, amazing moments.
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Things to do in Sausalito
View of San Francisco over the bay from the Sausalito Bridgeway
Walk along Sausalito's picturesque harbor, taking in the floating homes and wide bay views. We always scan the water for dolphins, and sea lions are practically guaranteed—it's one of those simple pleasures that never gets old. Grab a coffee and watch the boats and paddleboarders drift by, especially just after sunrise; it's the easiest, most relaxing hour of your trip.
Head up to Battery Spencer and Hawk Hill for the best look at the Golden Gate Bridge you'll get all trip. We went in the early to mid-afternoon and traffic up the hill was light, though you might share the view with a school field trip or tour bus—bring a camera or binoculars and give yourself extra time to just stand and look.
Browse Sausalito's main strip—Bridgeway is full of charming, independent shops: art galleries, jewelry, home goods, gift stores, toy stores, and bookshops you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for an unhurried afternoon of browsing, with a stop at Sausalito Sweets for fudge or ice cream along the way.
Book a sailing tour or rent a kayak and experience the bay up close—we didn't get out on the water ourselves, but heard great things from locals.
Wander up into Sausalito's hillside streets for postcard views and quiet, hidden corners. Santa Rosa Avenue up on "The Hill" is lined with towering Canary Island date palms (our daughter's new favorite tree) and wildflowers growing right into the hillside. This is where you see the town from a local's point of view, with fewer crowds and better photos.
Settle into Inn Above Tide's cozy Drawing Room for a glass of wine with a bay view that rivals any restaurant in town. We ended up in great conversation with other guests staying there—it's the perfect slow-down moment between an afternoon of exploring and dinner.
Places to eat & drink in Sausalito
View of cyclists passing a bakery on the Sausalito Bridgeway
Scoma's Sausalito: Waterfront seafood with a view that rivals the food itself. We ordered the calamari fritte, oysters Sausalito, a risotto Milanese with scallops, and fettuccine primavera—all excellent. Book ahead for a sunset table right on the water.
Sushi Ran: Start with a craft cocktail before settling in for what might be the best sushi menu in the Bay Area. We went with toro and caviar, hamachi, chilled edamame, and anago, paired with ume-manhattans—it was the best meal of the trip.
Barrel House Tavern: Wine and small plates served right on the water, ideal for an easy, lingering lunch or early dinner.
Suzette French Restaurant: A charming, romantic spot for classic French fare in the heart of town. Perfect for a slower dinner with a glass of wine.
Sula: A cozy, well-loved local favorite for a relaxed bite. Great for an easy, unfussy meal between exploring.
Venice Gourmet Delicatessen: The go-to spot for picnic supplies, sandwiches, and gourmet goods. Grab something here before heading to the waterfront or up into the hills. Great selection of bites and some of our favorite Jarritos sodas.
Need to know
Getting there: Sausalito is an easy 20-minute drive from San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge, or take the ferry from the Embarcadero for a scenic approach across the bay. We drove over the bridge ourselves—the views alone make the drive worth it.
Parking: Street parking in downtown Sausalito fills up fast, especially on weekends. If you're driving, plan to arrive early or be ready to park a few blocks out and walk in—we ended up walking everywhere once we arrived, which ended up being part of the charm. If you're staying at Inn Above Tide, take advantage of their valet; it's a small luxury that makes the whole stay easier.
Best time to visit: Mornings and early evenings are the sweet spot—Bridgeway gets crowded with day-trippers by midday. We went up to Battery Spencer in the early to mid-afternoon and traffic was lighter than expected, but sunrise or sunset here is still worth setting an alarm for.
Dress for the wind: The bay breeze picks up in the afternoon, even on warm days. Bring a light layer, especially if you're heading out on the water or up into the hills.
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Hannah Branch
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