Why Visit Sausalito California? Here are 7 Reasons to Go

Dreaming of a trip that’s mellow and exciting at the same time? This is your sign to take to visit Sausalito, California.

This small waterfront city is full of gorgeous views, eclectic culture and tasty food. You’ve probably seen pictures of Sausalito with colorful buildings lining the streets. It’s not the trendiest destination, but it’s a tried and true stop for visitors to the Bay Area.

This summer, I spent some time in Sausalito with friends. It was so fun that I just have to tell you my top seven reasons to visit. Keep reading for all the details.

Contents:

1. The views are priceless
2. It’s easy to visit
3. It’s built like Europe
4. Endless photo-ops
5. There’s art literally everywhere
6. You can dine on the water
7. Sleep in a room or on a house boat

1. The views are priceless

You can see the teal-blue water from nearly any place you go in Sausalito. Whether you’re walking around or lounging in your hotel room, you’ll be treated to views of the bay. The main street, Bridgeway, follows the along the shore so you can see the bay even if you’re just out and about.

Aside from the water, Sausalito has a breathtaking skyline. You’ll see all the shops and houses stacked up on the hillside. It so picturesque with a patchwork of different architectural styles from Victorian to colonial and mid-modern.

2. It’s easy to visit Sausalito

From San Francisco, it’s just a 20 minute drive to Sausalito. That makes getting there easy. You can fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and take a car over the Golden Gate Bridge.

No car to drive there? Luckily, there’s a ferry you can take to get to Sausalito. Board at the San Francisco Ferry Building and you’ll be dropped off at the Sausalito Ferry Landing. This is a fun alternative to driving, especially if you’re on a budget. The journey, while short, takes you past the Gold Gate Bridge and right onto a Sausalito dock. Shopping and food are just across the street.

3. It’s built like Europe

Let’s talk about the architecture in Sausalito. It pulls from Spanish and Victorian design styles and makes you feel like you’re somewhere in Italy or France.

Unlike most American cities, Sausalito is made for pedestrians instead of cars. Strolling between coffee shops, boutiques and restaurants is what you’re meant to do here. No one’s in a hurry, so the vibes are laid-back and comfortable. If you can’t make it to the Amalfi coast, try visiting Sausalito. It’s the next best thing.

4. Endless photo-ops

Want some amazing photos? Visit Sausalito and you’ll find tons of spots to get a good shot. The most obvious option is to pose on the shoreline with the waterfront behind you. Then, flip it around and do the same against the hillside. Here are some other spots to check out:

• Plaza Viña Del Mar is on the southern shorefront where you’ll see massive palm trees and sculptures. Photos taken here have a more exotic vibe and can be really artistic if you try.
• At Pelican Harbor, you can snap a photo in front of the boats docked there.
• Yee Tock Chee Park faces San Francisco, offering a direct view of the city skyline. As long as it’s not foggy, you’ll get the perfect picture to commemorate your trip.

5. There’s art literally everywhere

Of course, there are Sausalito art galleries you can walk into and explore. But you’ll also find art designed into different parts of the city.

You might find an arched staircase with a mural painted on the inside. Or you might eat at a restaurant with wood-worked art built into the walls. Even the crosswalks are decorated with rainbow line art.

If you do like art galleries, you can visit one of the following:

• Daniel Merriam’s Bubble Street Gallery features more than just work by this famous artist. You can see his hauntingly whimsical creations alongside other artists who work with surrealism.
• Versailles Gallery focuses on antiques and collectibles from all over the world. Don’t be deterred by all the clutter inside – this place is full of treasures you’ve probably never seen before. Located at 605 Bridgeway.
• Galerie Elektra imports original works by artists from places like Venice, Shanghai and the Middle East. Visit this gallery for the quintessential experience where you’ll see artist’s collections in a clean and elegant environment.

[PRO TIP] View a full list of Sausalito art galleries on The Sausalito Center For The Arts’ website.

6. You can dine on the water

On Bridgeway, there are a handful of upscale restaurants literally built into the shore. Most feature 360-degree views of the bay through floor-to-ceiling windows. It really feels like you’re on a boat with all the water around.

The food varies from “Californian” fare to French and Italian cuisine. It’s probably no surprise that seafood is a big focus. Breakfast in Sausalito is an event with many waterfront restaurants offering weekend brunch menus.

I had oysters and clam chowder at The Trident, a casual eatery with over a century of pop-culture history. It was built in 1898 as a yacht club. By the late 1960s, it became a hangout for famous people in the hippie era. If it was good enough for Janis Joplin, it’s good enough for me!

Other waterfront restaurants to try:

• Scoma’s of Sausalito (southern waterfront)
• Bar Bocce (downtown)
• Joinery (downtown)
• The Spinnaker (downtown waterfront)

7. Sleep in a room or on a house boat

In Sausalito, there are unique lodging options that can really elevate your trip. Go all out and rent a houseboat to experience living like you never have before. You’ll wake up to the sound of water lapping at the shore. Check out AirBnB or VRBO for options.

If that’s too much, how about a boutique hotel or small bed and breakfast? Hotel Sausalito really delivers on the historic and European influences. Luxurious and clean with only 16 rooms, it’s an exclusive place to stay that’s worth the splurge.

Alternatively, you can visit Sausalito from San Francisco, by simply driving over for the day. There are many more places to stay in San Francisco. Just make sure it’s somewhere on the northwest side of town.

Conclusion

So, now are you convinced to add Sausalito to your bucket list? Even if you don’t make a dedicated visit, I recommend you go if you’re in the area. Save this list so you know some good places to go.

Curious about visiting San Francisco? See the perfect day trip itinerary here.