Muir Woods and Alcatraz Tour 2026

Giant Redwoods, Sausalito & Alcatraz | Transport & ferry included | Small group

FROM $ 159
7 hours
Live & audio guide
BOOK Tour NOW

You won't be charged yet

About Muir Woods and Alcatraz Tour

Enjoy an amazing combo tour and experience the diverse attractions of the San Francisco Bay Area. Explore the natural splendor of one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in Muir Woods National Monument. Discover the history of the famous prison on Alcatraz Island. You'll also join a small group with your tour guide to explore the town of Sausalito, enjoy scenic views, and even cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Secure your Muir Woods and Alcatraz tour now and spend a day in the San Francisco area like a local!

Certified

RESERVE NOW & PAY LATER!

Accepted payment cards

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot without any upfront payment!

Wonderful tour well worth the money!

I had such a great time on this tour! The redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument were massive and so beautiful. Walking through the forest was really peaceful and a nice break from the city. I also loved visiting Alcatraz Island. It was on my wish list for a long time, and I'm glad that I finally did it - totally worth it! The story about Capone and the dark side of prison life was a real eye-opener.

Kevin
A tour of San Francisco that covers it all!

Fantastic tour experience! The redwood trees at Muir Woods are so tall, and the air is so fresh and clean. Had a really relaxing time there! Sausalito, a small town with great views of the bay, was also nice to visit. I especially enjoyed exploring the Alcatraz prison. Everyone should definitely visit it!

Jonah

DESCRIPTION

Muir Woods and Alcatraz Tour

MUIR WOODS

As you cross the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll have an opportunity to take a photo on the famous bridge before continuing towards Muir Woods. Upon arrival, you will have an experience of walking among the tallest and oldest living organisms on Earth. Admire the towering coastal redwoods, some of which are over 1,000 years old and learn about the specific climate needed to sustain such a forest. Being so close to the ocean, the forest is shrouded in almost constant fog, which provides plenty of moisture and encourages lush vegetation growth. Surrounded with the scent of redwood and damp earth, and the sound of rustling leaves, this will be your ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. Enjoy the breathtaking and mystical sceneries of this botanical wonderland, since this is an essential stop to experience the majesty of California's natural landscape.

TOWN OF SAUSALITO

After visiting Muir Woods National Monument, you will continue toward the town of Sausalito. This coastal town offers a charming waterfront with wooden boats and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. You can also visit a hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay, which includes all of the local river deltas. Follow your guide to learn about the fascinating history and community of Sausalito. When in Sausalito, you’ll first notice the town’s vibrant art scene. Perhaps this is a good opportunity to visit some of the galleries showcasing works from local artists to pick up a beautiful keepsake. Sausalito is also known for its eclectic Sausalito Houseboats, located along the waterfront. As they are very photogenic, you will surely make a bunch of snaps there. This charming town is a true Californian maritime gem that you’ll surely enjoy exploring.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Your visit to Alcatraz Island starts at Pier 33. Once on the ferry, prepare yourself for a completely different experience, filled with fascinating historical facts about dark, criminal geniuses and their lives in prison. On the island, you’ll be able to explore Alcatraz and the infamous prison located there. Listen to your audio guide and learn about the hardships inmates faced while on the island. You can even visit the cells of notorious criminals such as Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly.

The prison was famous for being nearly impossible to escape from. With your audio guide, listen to the stories of failed escape attempts and learn why it proved so difficult. Strict rules and constant inmate checks by guards made it almost impossible for prisoners to prepare for such a feat. If they managed to escape the island, they would face another major obstacle - the cold, turbulent water and strong currents, which made swimming across virtually impossible.

Certified

LIMITED AVAILABILITY! BOOK MUIR WOODS AND ALCATRAZ TOUR NOW!

Accepted payment cards

Easy & fast booking process!

Interesting facts about Muir Woods and Alcatraz

HOW MUIR WOODS GOT ITS NAME?

Originally, President Theodore Roosevelt had considered naming the National Monument after William Kent, the congressman who donated the land. However, Kent proposed that it be named in honor of John Muir, the naturalist who had advocated for the protection of such natural spaces. Roosevelt accepted Kent's suggestion, and thus the area was named Muir Woods National Monument.

HOW MANY INMATES WERE IN ALCATRAZ?

Alcatraz prison was never at full capacity. The largest number of inmates was 320, while the average was around 260. The lowest number was as few as 222. So, contrary to certain movie depictions, the prison was not overcrowded.

WHAT WAS ALCATRAZ BEFORE IT WAS A PRISON?

Long before Alcatraz became a prison, it served as a lighthouse. In 1854, the first-ever Pacific Coast lighthouse was built on the island. It served as such until a larger one was constructed in 1909.

THE ORIGIN OF THE ALCATRAZ NAME

The name Alcatraz comes from pelicans. In 1775, the island was named “La Isla de los Alcatraces” by Spanish Lieutenant Juan Manuel de Ayala. The name translates to “The Island of Pelicans”.

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

  • Please bring an ID or passport in case you are asked for identification.
  • Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change, especially when transitioning from the forest to the waterfront.
  • Bring sunscreen, as you'll be exposed to direct sunlight during parts of the tour, and drink sufficient water to stay hydrated on your journey.

Meeting Point

Depending on your selected tour schedule, your meeting point will be either 488 Post St. (Cafe Encore) where a Mercedes Sprinter van will be waiting for you across the street, or at Pier 33, where you will go directly to the Alcatraz boarding line.

Certified

FREE CANCELLATION UP TO 24H IN ADVANCE!

Accepted payment cards

Receive a complete refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the selected date!

FAQ - Muir Woods and Alcatraz Tour

Are there any toilets available during the Muir Woods and Alcatraz tour?

Yes, there are toilets at several locations on the tour. You’ll find restrooms at Muir Woods, in the town of Sausalito, and on Alcatraz Island. Make sure to use the restrooms when you have the chance, especially before heading to Alcatraz, as there are limited facilities on the island.

Do I need to bring my own lunch for the Muir Woods and Alcatraz tour?

While food is not provided during the tour, there are opportunities to grab lunch in the town of Sausalito after visiting Muir Woods. There are various cafes and restaurants offering beautiful views of the bay. You can also bring your own snacks, especially if you prefer eating in between stops.

What kind of transportation is provided during the Muir Woods and Alcatraz tour?

The tour uses a luxury Mercedes Sprinter van for transport between Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Alcatraz Landing (Pier 33). This comfortable van will pick you up and drop you off at the specified locations, making it easy to relax while traveling. A round-trip ferry ride to Alcatraz is also included in the price of your ticket.

What other tours should I book while in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, most visitors decide to visit Alcatraz. A convenient way to visit the famous prison and other major landmarks is the San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and Alcatraz Tour. If you wish to explore highlights of San Francisco's waterfront, we recommend Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz Tour. Also, going on a Golden Gate Bike Tour and Alcatraz Tour is a great option if you wish to ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge and visit the Alcatraz prison in one day. For the fastest and most basic option, you can choose the Alcatraz Cruise, where you don’t get off the boat but still enjoy close-up views of the island, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.

Don’t wait! Book now!

Accepted payment cards
  • Transportation included
  • Small group
  • Easy & fast booking process
  • Free cancellation
  • Reserve now & pay later

Instant ticket delivery

Smartphone tickets accepted

Skip-the-line ticket

SEE MORE OPTIONS

We have the best value Alcatraz tours & tickets for you!

Alcatraz Day Tour
from
$ 94
$ 77,42
Best-seller

Ferry ride included

Alcatraz Day Tour

Visit Alcatraz Island at your own pace and learn about its history with an audio guide. Explore the cell blocks and learn about Al Capone, "Machine Gun" Kelly, and other infamous prisoners, as well as why escape from the island was hard. The tour includes a convenient round-trip ferry ticket.

San Francisco Bay Cruise
from
$ 39

Multilingual audio guide

San Francisco Bay Cruise

Cruise along the beautiful San Francisco Bay while admiring the sights from the water. Sail under the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge and around the infamous Alcatraz Island. This island was once used as a prison and was considered escape-proof. On your cruise, keep an eye out for wildlife such as sea lions and dolphins, and learn about San Francisco's history from your audio guide.

San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & Alcatraz Tour
from
$ 120
Save time

Explore San Francisco

San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & Alcatraz Tour

Enjoy a 2-day Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour through San Francisco to see top spots like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf. Visit the famous Alcatraz Island and prison, and enjoy a guided walking tour of Chinatown. Enjoy the unique opportunity to see the city's iconic landmarks illuminated under the evening sky on a panoramic sunset tour. Make the most of your time in San Francisco, reserve your spot now and experience both the city and the island with one booking!