Getting Around Sausalito. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Golden Gate Transit (GGT) buses serve as a main mode of land transport, connecting Sausalito to various points in Marin County and to San Francisco. Routes along Bridgeway, Sausalito's main street, prove useful for visitors. GGT buses remain comfortable.

The Sausalito Ferry is a highlight for many visitors. Regular ferry service operates daily between the Sausalito Ferry Terminal and two locations in San Francisco. The ferry has stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco skyline. Operated by Golden Gate Ferry and Blue & Gold Fleet, it is a scenic and popular choice for traveling between the two cities.

Transit Details

Route Maps & Hubs: Sausalito Ferry Terminal is centrally located on the waterfront. Bus stops are along Bridgeway. In San Francisco, GGT connections are at Salesforce Transit Center or Van Ness Avenue.
Ticketing: The Clipper Card is highly recommended for convenience and discounted fares, working across most Bay Area transit systems. Purchase at vending machines, retail locations, or via the Clipper app. Cash is accepted on buses but requires exact change; not directly on ferries.
Hours & Frequency: Buses generally operate early morning to late evening, with reduced weekend/holiday service. Ferry schedules vary significantly by season and day of the week. Always check current schedules.
Accessibility: GGT buses and Sausalito ferries are generally wheelchair accessible. Most public areas along the waterfront are flat and accessible.

Use Apps

Utilize Google Maps or other transit apps for real-time schedules, route planning, and estimated travel times.

Get Clipper Card

If you plan multiple trips using public transit, a Clipper Card offers convenience and often provides discounted fares.

Check Schedules

Always check ferry schedules in advance; they change seasonally. Arrive early for popular departure times.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Traditional licensed taxis often wait near the Sausalito Ferry Terminal or major hotels. You can call a local company directly.
Fares remain metered. Credit cards are generally accepted, confirm with the driver. A ride to downtown San Francisco ranges from $30-$50+, not including tolls and tip.
Taxis are identifiable by roof lights and branding. Hailing on the street is less common than in larger cities.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular. They offer a convenient way to request a ride from your smartphone.
Estimated fare before booking. Payment handles through the app. Many visitors find rideshare services more convenient and sometimes more affordable.
Safety: Confirm driver's name, vehicle, and license plate match the app. Share trip details with a trusted person.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

Requires valid driver's license (IDP recommended if not in English) and major credit card. Pick up at airports or nearby Marin County locations.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common directly in Sausalito. Options may exist in San Francisco. Verify licensing and insurance.

Bicycle Sharing

Bay Wheels (Lyft Bike) offers dockless and docked electric/pedal bikes via app. (Helmet recommendation)

Local Bike Shops

Several shops in Sausalito offer daily rentals of standard and electric bikes. Electric bikes are recommended for hills. Many offer one-way rentals to SF. (Sturdy walking shoes recommendation)

Driving & Parking Considerations

Driving offers flexibility, but traffic, parking, and unique local road conditions require awareness.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Standard US driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Hands-free phone use is a requirement while driving.
Roads around Sausalito remain well-maintained. However, many residential streets on the hillsides are steep, narrow, and winding. Careful driving is a good practice.
Be aware of cyclists on scenic routes, especially on roads leading to and from the Golden Gate Bridge and in the Marin Headlands.

Parking & Tolls

Parking in Sausalito remains limited and expensive, especially along the waterfront (Bridgeway) and in the downtown area.
Metered street parking and paid parking lots are available. Pay close attention to parking signs for restrictions, time limits, and payment requirements to avoid tickets or towing.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a toll bridge when traveling southbound into San Francisco. Tolls collect electronically via FasTrak or license plate recognition.
Rental car companies often have systems to handle these tolls; understand their billing.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Sausalito’s waterfront promenade and downtown area (Bridgeway) are very pedestrian-friendly. These areas are flat, well-maintained, and offer charming strolls.
The residential areas on the hillsides offer delightful walks with stunning views but involve steep climbs. These walks often reveal hidden staircases, unique architecture, and lush gardens.
Walking Tours: Self-guided walks are popular. Explore the waterfront, downtown, and houseboat community. Maps from the Visitor Center assist route planning.

Bicycle Infrastructure: Sausalito is a popular destination for cycling, especially the route across the Golden Gate Bridge. Dedicated bike lanes and multi-use trails exist.
Always wear a Helmet when cycling (recommended for all). Be aware of pedestrians on multi-use paths and follow traffic laws.
No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas exist. Exercise caution on busy roads lacking sidewalks or designated bike lanes, and on very steep, winding residential streets.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Several tour companies offer bus tours from San Francisco that include a stop in Sausalito. These often combine Sausalito with other North Bay attractions like Muir Woods.

Water Transport

The main water transportation is the Sausalito Ferry. No specific boat taxi service operates within Sausalito itself. Private boat charters are for recreational purposes.

Accessibility

Public transit (buses, ferries) are generally accessible. Many shops and restaurants along Bridgeway offer accessible entryways. Sausalito's hilly terrain can be challenging for limited mobility; plan routes focusing on flatter areas.

Seamless Movement

Sausalito's compact size and diverse transport options make exploring its charm and surrounding areas straightforward.

Consider your preferred pace and activities when choosing how to navigate the city.

Getting Around Sausalito