‌

Visiting Alcatraz Island: What to know before you go

Opening hours

  • Open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
  • The first ferry departs from Pier 33 at 8:20am, and the final return trip varies seasonally and by tour type.
  • Night tours are available from Tuesday–Saturday at three time slots–5:55pm, 6:30pm, and 7:05pm. The last return trip is at 9:30pm.
Find out the best time to visit Alcatraz Island

Location

Address: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA 94133
Ferry departure point: Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, San Francisco | Find on Maps
Closest landmark: Fisherman’s Wharf (0.5 miles)

How to get to Pier 33?

  • By bus: Routes 8, 30, 39, and 47–serve nearby stops
  • By streetcar: F-line—stops opposite the pier
  • By BART: Exit at Embarcadero Station and catch the F-line or a taxi
  • By car: No on-site parking; nearby paid parking for approx. $35–45/day
  • On foot: Scenic 15–20 minute walk from neighborhoods like North Beach or Fisherman’s Wharf
Explore transport options to Pier 33

Know before you go

Facilities

  • Clean restrooms, shaded seating, and waiting areas.
  • The ticket booth offers audio guides and basic visitor information.
  • Drinking fountains and vending machines are available on-site.
  • Outdoor exhibits and tactile models to learn about Alcatraz.

Accessibiility

  • The ticket booth, boarding area, and restrooms are fully accessible.
  • Free Assisted Listening Devices (credit card deposit required) and Braille descriptions for tours and exhibits.
  • No wheelchair rentals at the pier or the island.

Rules & regulations

  • Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and screening.
  • Carry a government-issued photo ID for verification.

Facilities

  • Indoor/outdoor seating and onboard restrooms.
  • Safety videos are available in multiple languages.
  • Light snacks and drinks are sold onboard.

Accessibility

  • All ferries are wheelchair accessible.
  • Closed-captioned safety videos with ASL.
  • Assisted Listening Devices are available onboard.

Rules & regulations

  • No smoking or vaping anywhere on board.
  • Outside drinks are not allowed.
  • No large bags or luggage; no lockers available.

Facilities

  • Restrooms are near the dock and the Cellhouse.
  • A gift shop and bookstore near the dock sells souvenirs and books.
  • Interpretive exhibits and short films in several buildings.
  • No food is sold; bring bottled water, and eating is restricted to the dock.

Accessibility

  • S.E.A.T. Tram available from the dock to the Cellhouse.
  • Accessible restrooms and the Cellhouse elevator to both levels.
  • Audio tour available in ASL, Braille, and written transcript.
  • Some terrains are steep or uneven; assistance is advised.

Rules & regulations

  • Food is only allowed in the dock area.
  • Stay on paths; don’t climb historic structures.
  • Drones, music, and filming gear need permits.
  • Respect signage and preservation zones.
  • Fog Harbor Fish House: Upscale seafood restaurant with bay views, offering fresh local catch, and a scenic atmosphere near Fisherman’s Wharf.
    Must-try dish: Dungeness crab cakes
  • Hillstone (Embarcadero): Polished and modern, Hillstone serves American grill favorites—steaks, sushi, and salads—in a warm space with waterfront seating.
    Must-try dish: Thai steak & noodle salad
  • Queen’s Louisiana Po-Boy Café: Laid-back Cajun spot serving hearty po’ boys, gumbo, and jambalaya. Great for a flavorful, casual meal before or after your cruise.
    Must-try dish: Shrimp po-boy sandwich
  • Boudin Bakery Café: Famous for its sourdough, this bakery cafe offers soups, sandwiches, and San Francisco classics in a casual, counter-service setting.
    Must-try dish: Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
  • Pier 23 Café: Chill waterfront cafe with seafood plates, cold drinks, and occasional live music. A local favorite with great bay views.
    Must-try dish: Grilled fish tacos
  • Alcatraz Gift Shop (Pier 33 / Pier 39): Fill your day with iconic memorabilia—think mugshot tees, prisoner-themed cups, historical books, and novelty gear tied to Alcatraz lore.
  • Pier 39 Shopping Center: Over 50 specialty stores and kiosks bursting with San Francisco-themed gifts—think rubber ducks, magnets, apparel, and sea lion photo souvenirs.
  • Lefty’s San Francisco (Pier 39): Unique novelty shop devoted to left-handers. Carrying notebooks, mugs, cooking tools, and quirky gear meant specifically for left-handed use.
  • Aquarium of the Bay Gift Shop (Pier 39): Marine-themed boutique offering plush sea creatures, educational toys, and ocean-style souvenirs—perfect for families and animal lovers.
  • Ferry Building Marketplace (10–15 min walk): Historic food and shopping hub offering artisan treats, local crafts, and specialty products—ideal for gourmet souvenirs or last-minute gifts.
  • Bay Cruise: Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz on a scenic Bay Cruise. Great for panoramic views, iconic photo ops, and a refreshing dose of sea air—especially around sunset.
  •  Exploratorium: This hands-on science museum on Pier 15 is perfect for curious minds of all ages. Step inside to play, tinker, and get inspired by interactive exhibits spanning physics, perception, and tech.
  • Ferry Building Marketplace: A short walk down the Embarcadero, this foodie haven features gourmet eats, coffee, wine, and artisan shops—all inside a historic terminal with sweeping bay views.
  • Pier 39: From sea lion sightings to waterfront dining and carousel rides, Pier 39 offers classic San Francisco fun. Don’t miss the Aquarium of the Bay or the street performers near the entrance.

Visitor tips

  • Pick a seat on the right side of the ferry (when heading to the island) for the best views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge. On the way back, sit on the left.
  • Start with the audio tour inside the Cellhouse first—early arrivals mean fewer crowds and a more immersive experience with ambient sound effects like clanging doors and echoing footsteps.
  • Dress in layers—even on sunny days. The ferry ride and the island can be chilly and windy due to the bay’s microclimate.
  • Bring binoculars or a zoom lens—the island’s upper levels offer surprise wildlife sightings, including nesting seabirds, harbor seals, and even peregrine falcons.
  • Charge your phone or camera beforehand—there are no charging stations on the island, and you’ll need a battery for the many photo ops and QR-linked exhibits.
  • If you have mobility concerns, use the S.E.A.T. tram to ride up to the Cellhouse—it fills up fast, so board promptly after disembarking.
  • Stay for the ranger talk if you can—short and packed with behind-the-scenes stories, especially about escape attempts and prison life. Check the day’s schedule upon arrival.
  • Look down! Some of the island’s original signage, rusted hardware, and even inmate carvings are still visible on lower ledges and railings.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Alcatraz

How long is the ferry ride to Alcatraz Island?

The ferry ride takes about 12–15 minutes one way. Enjoy scenic views of the Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline en route. Get all your ferry-related details here.

Is a storage facility available on the island?

No, there are no lockers or storage facilities on Alcatraz Island or at Pier 33. Pack light and avoid bringing large bags or strollers.

What should I carry with me to the island?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, refillable water bottle, camera, and your ticket (digital or printed). Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers.

Should I pack a picnic?

You can, but note that eating is not allowed on the island outside designated picnic areas near the dock. Light snacks are permitted but must be consumed before exploring further.

What souvenir can I pick up at the gift shop?

The gift shop at the dock sells replica prison keys, books, themed apparel, historic photographs, and official Alcatraz merchandise.

Does my return ferry have a fixed departure time too?

No, your return ferry is flexible. Stay as long as you’d like, within operating hours. Just line up for any return boat when you're ready to leave. Get all your ferry-related details here.

What maternity facilities are available for those traveling with babies?

There are accessible restrooms with changing tables on both the ferry and the island. However, there are no nursing rooms or private family areas.

If the waters get choppy, will my Alcatraz visit get cancelled or rescheduled?

Tours run in most weather conditions, including rain and light fog. In rare cases of severe weather or unsafe waters, tours may be cancelled or delayed, and you’ll be offered rescheduling options.

More reads

Read about Alcatraz

Discover the history of Alcatraz

Visit Alcatraz at night

Information

All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

San Francisco Tours
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

Headout

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
FPX