San Francisco Tours

Is there a best time to visit Alcatraz Island?

Tour timings and duration

Ferry view of Alcatraz Island with historic buildings in San Francisco Bay.

Island timings

  • Sunday–Monday from 9:30am–6:30pm.
  • Tuesday–Saturday from 9am–9:30pm.
  • Closed on: Christmas, New Year's Day, and Thanksgiving Day.

Ferry timings

  • Day tours start at 8:40am; last ferry is at 3:5opm.
  • Night tours start at 5:55pm; last ferry is at 7:05pm.
  • Duration: Day tours for 2.5 hours; night tours for 3 hours.

Best time to visit Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is open year-round, but the timing of your visit can shape the entire experience, whether you’re taking the standard day tour or the more atmospheric night tour.

Weekday vs weekend

  • During the week (Monday to Thursday), morning departures tend to be the calmest, with fewer crowded ferries and a quieter island experience.
  • Night tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday, so opting for a weekday evening (especially Tuesday or Wednesday) means smaller group sizes, adding to the quiet, immersive feel of exploring the island after dark.
  • Over the weekend (Friday to Sunday). with ferries selling out much in advance, particularly for late morning and midday slots, the island is a lot busier.
  • The Saturday night tour is a favorite among both tourists and locals, and often books out early. While it retains its charm, there are generally more people on the island than during a weekday night tour.

Peak season vs low season

  • Peak season (April–October): Longer days, warmer weather, and clear Bay views make this the most popular time. Day tours shine for photography, while night tours capture golden-hour sunsets. Advance reservations are a must.
  • Crowds in summer: June–August is busiest. The island handles crowds well, but expect short waits at photo spots and audio guide pickup.
  • Low season (November–March): Fewer visitors, shorter lines, and misty mornings create a quieter, moodier experience. Cooler weather adds to the island’s atmosphere.
  • Winter night tours: Smaller groups and deeper darkness make these especially atmospheric. Some outdoor areas may close, but the Cellhouse stays open.

How much time should I spend on Alcatraz Island?

A visit to Alcatraz is not a quick photo stop—it’s a deep dive into history and nature. Most visitors spend 2.5 to 3 hours on the island, including the round-trip ferry ride. Since there’s no fixed tour duration, you can explore at your own pace and take the return ferry that suits your schedule.

Frequently asked questions about Alcatraz hours

Alcatraz Island is open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Ferry service and tours run year-round, weather permitting.

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