San Francisco is a city that begs to be explored on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a unique way to experience the city, a San Francisco Bike Tour offers the perfect blend of urban adventure and stunning natural beauty. This guide will take you on a journey from the iconic Ferry Building, through bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, across the legendary Golden Gate Bridge, and into the charming town of Sausalito.
Starting Your San Francisco Bike Tour at the Ferry Building
Your San Francisco Bike Tour begins at the historic Ferry Building, located along the scenic Embarcadero. This hub is not just a ferry terminal; it’s a vibrant marketplace filled with local delicacies. Before setting off, grab a quick bite or a coffee at one of the many gourmet stalls. For bike rentals, several shops like Blazing Saddles and Bay City Bike Rentals are conveniently located nearby. Renting a bike here is easy, with options ranging from classic road bikes to electric bikes, perfect for tackling San Francisco’s hills.
I rented a bike from a place called Ferry Building Bike Rentals, the owner was friendly and I liked the condition of the bike.
TIP
If you’re pressed for time, or don’t prefer a long bike ride, you can rent a bike near Fisherman’s Wharf (there’s also a ferry from Sausalito back to the area).
The following bike shops are recommended if you’re renting close to Fisherman’s Wharf. Five locations in San Francisco are home to the well-known and established bike rental company Blazing Saddles. You can pick up a bike early from any of the five locations in San Francisco, which open daily at 8 a.m. Additionally, you can return the bikes as late as you’d like and take as many as you like. Because they offer 24-hour return possibilities, the two Fisherman’s Wharf locations (Pier 41 and 2715 Hyde Street) are particularly well-suited for late-night trips.
A 20% discount is available when you make reservations on their website in advance.
Food to eat at the Ferry Building
1. Bluebottle
2. Acme Bread
Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 on Your San Francisco Bike Tour
As you pedal away from the Ferry Building, your San Francisco Bike Tour will lead you along the picturesque Embarcadero, a flat, easy ride perfect for warming up. Soon, you’ll find yourself at Fisherman’s Wharf, one of the city’s most famous districts. This area is a lively mix of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and historic attractions. Don’t forget to detour to Pier 39, where you can take a break to watch the playful sea lions basking in the sun. It’s a must-see spot on any San Francisco Bike Tour.
Google Map Links
Fisherman’s Wharf
Pier 39
The Golden Gate Bridge: A Highlight of Your San Francisco Bike Tour
Your San Francisco Bike Tour leads you past the busy docks and toward the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous buildings on earth. As you get closer to the bridge, the route gets increasingly picturesque. Riding a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge is an unparalleled experience. Enjoy a seamless ride on the designated bike route, which lets you take in the breathtaking vistas of the Marin Headlands, the bay, and Alcatraz Island.
Descending into Sausalito: The Final Stretch of Your San Francisco Bike Tour
After the exhilarating experience of crossing the bridge, your San Francisco Bike Tour descends into the quaint town of Sausalito. This charming waterfront community is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you can relax at a café, browse local art galleries, or enjoy a meal with stunning views of the bay. Sausalito’s laid-back vibe makes it a perfect place to unwind after the more intense portions of your tour.
Returning to San Francisco: Ferry Ride Back from Sausalito
Take a ferry back to the city to finish your San Francisco Bike Tour. A distinctive viewpoint of the bay is provided by the boat journey, which also provides a breathtaking picture of the Golden Gate Bridge from the water. It’s a leisurely conclusion to your tour that lets you kick back and consider the voyage. This completes the circuit of your San Francisco Bike Tour when the ferry lands back at the Ferry Building.
Where to Eat in Sausalito
After biking all the way to Sausalito, you’ll be pretty hungry, so you’ll want to grab a bite to eat. Sausalito has plenty of bike parking because so many people come to town by bike. You can park your bike in any of the paid bike parking lots. It’s $5 per bike, so lock it up with a lock provided by the bike rental shop and enjoy your meal.
- Hamburgers: he menu includes a basic burger, cheeseburger, picante burger, Hawaiian burger, and bbq chicken, all of which cost around $8 to $10. Add on fries and a drink and you’re looking at another $6 to $7
- Salitos Crab House: Salito’s Crab House & Prime rib is a classic Sausalito seafood restaurant that’s known for its crab. A crab will set you back around $70, or $100 for two, and prime rib starts at $45 for a regular cut and goes up to $80. If you’re looking for a great meal in a scenic location, this is a great restaurant to try.
- Lapper’s Ice Cream: Lappert’s Ice Cream is an ice cream shop that started in Sausalito and has about 10 locations throughout California. It’s famous for its Hawaiian Sea Salt and Kona Coffee flavors, and is a Sausalito institution.
Ferry Schedule and Tips
The most important thing is to know the ferry times so you don’t miss the ferry, which you can see in the link. Even if you rented near Fisherman’s Wharf and not at the Ferry Building as I mentioned above, you can take the ferry to Pier 41 to return it. Make sure to check the timetable.
The ferry ride from Sausalito to San Francisco takes about 30 minutes, but getting on the ferry at peak times can be difficult. If you stand in line and the ferry fills up, you’ll have to wait for the next one, so be prepared to return 1-2 hours before dropping off your bike if it’s peak time.
The ferry to Pier 41 is $14.25, with $8.5 for seniors/children and no discount.
The ferry to the Ferry Building is $14.00 for adults, with a significant discount to $7.75 with a Clipper Card. In addition to this, the senior/child fare is $7.00.
Check Ferry Schedule from Sausalito to Pier41
Check Ferry Schedule from Sausalito to Ferry Building
Practical Tips for Your San Francisco Bike Tour
- Bike Rentals: Expect to pay around $30-50 for a full day rental. Electric bikes are available for a bit more if needed.
- Ferry Schedule: Check the ferry times in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, to ensure a smooth return trip.
- Weather Preparedness: San Francisco’s weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers, and be ready for wind on the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Safety Considerations: Always wear a helmet, and be mindful of pedestrians, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman’s Wharf.
Embarking on a San Francisco Bike Tour is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. From the historic Ferry Building to the serene beauty of Sausalito, this route offers a unique way to experience the city’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a new way to see San Francisco, this tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
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