Angel Island is the largest natural island in San Francisco Bay, sitting between the city and Marin County with 360-degree views from its 781-foot summit. It has been Coast Miwok territory, a Civil War fortification, and an immigration processing station for hundreds of thousands of arrivals; now it's a state park you reach by ferry, with trails, history, and campsites that book six months out.
Details
- 🏞️Type
- State Park
- 🏛️Managed by
- California State Parks
- 📍State
- CA
- 🗺️Address
- Tiburon, CA, 94920
- 📞Phone
- (415) 435-5390
- 🕐Hours
- Sunrise to Sunset
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📡GPS
- 37.86293, -122.43036
The Place
The island covers 740 acres. The perimeter trail circles the whole island with shifting views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Marin County, and Mount Tamalpais. The North Ridge Trail up to Mount Livermore at 781 feet gives you the full panorama. The Immigration Station processed over 300,000 arrivals between 1910 and 1940, mostly from China and Japan; the detention barracks still carry poems inscribed by detainees in the walls. Camp Reynolds and Fort McDowell mark Civil War and WWII-era military use.
Note: the north perimeter road has been closed since a December 2024 landslide, which currently affects tram tour routes.
When to Go
Spring and fall offer the best weather for hiking the island. Summer weekends are the busiest, and Bay Area fog can cut the views at any time of year. Winter weekday ferry service is limited; check schedules before you go. Ferries don't wait.
Getting There
Golden Gate Ferry from San Francisco or Angel Island Tiburon Ferry from Tiburon. Private boaters can dock at Ayala Cove ($15 day-use dock fee, 16 slips). Day-use: adults $3, youth (5-17) $2, under 5 free.
What to Do
Hiking ranges from the flat perimeter road to the climb up to Mount Livermore. Bikes can be rented seasonally on the island; helmets required for riders under 18. The Immigration Station and Detention Barracks Museum is one of the more significant historical sites in the state parks system. Seasonal tram tours run the perimeter road (north section currently closed). Charcoal grills permitted at campsites; wood fires prohibited.
Reservations & Fees
Campsites reserve 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia. Sites are 1.5 to 2 miles from the ferry dock, some uphill. Day-use fees are modest ($3 adult). No dogs except certified service animals.