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 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 isn’t as well-known as nearby towns like San Francisco and Napa. Still, it’s a popular stop for visitors in the Bay Area.

This summer, I spent some time in Sausalito with friends. It was so fun that I must tell you my top seven reasons to visit. Looking for a map of Sausalito hotspots? Skip to it here.

Reasons to visit Sausalito, CA:

1. The views are priceless
2. Easy to get there
3. Built like Europe
4. Endless photo-ops
5. Thriving art scene
6. Waterfront dining options
7. You can sleep in 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, views of the bay will delight you. The main street, Bridgeway, follows the along the shoreline. As a result, you can see the bay from most places when you’re out and about.

Aside from the water, Sausalito has a breathtaking skyline. You’ll see all the shops and historic houses stacked on the hillside. It’s 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 then take a car over the Golden Gate Bridge.

If you’ve never driven on the Golden Gate Bridge, this is a great option for you to choose. Seeing the bridge from up close was more exciting than I expected. You can see San Francisco Bay on one side of the car and the Pacific Ocean on the other.

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 then get 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 to the Sausalito ferry terminals. Shopping and food are just across the street.

3. It’s built like Europe

Let’s talk about Sausalito’s historic architecture. 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 prioritizes pedestrians instead of cars. This is a place where you can safely stroll between coffee shops, boutiques and restaurants. It feels like no one there is ever in a hurry, which creates a laid-back and comfortable vibe.

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. Here, you’ll also have views of San Francisco in the background.

Then, you can turn around and get a photo against the hillside. Here are some other spots to check out:

• Plaza Viña Del Mar is a park in Downtown Sausalito where you’ll see massive palm trees and sculptures. This area looks the most exotic and is a great place to take some artistic photos.
• 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. You may eat at a restaurant with wood-worked art built into the walls. The town has even decorated the crosswalks 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 let the clutter inside deter you. 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 a quality experience. 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 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. Breakfast in Sausalito is an event with many waterfront restaurants offering weekend brunch menus.

You probably won’t be surprised that seafood is a major focus. I had oysters and clam chowder at The Trident. This casual eatery has over a century of pop-culture history.

In 1898, the city originally built the building to serve 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 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 offers old-world charm with décor inspired by coastal Europe. Luxurious and clean with only 16 rooms, it’s an exclusive place to stay that’s worth the splurge.

Otherwise, you can visit Sausalito from San Francisco, by simply driving over for the day. San Francisco has far more places to stay and transportation options. Just make sure to choose somewhere on the northwest side of town.

Sausalito Map for Visitors

Looking for an itinerary map to take on the go? I curated this map of my favorite attractions in Sausalito, many of which I mentioned today.

This map includes top restaurants and bars, the best art galleries and outdoor areas to explore.

Conclusion

So, now are you convinced that you need to visit Sausalito? You really should add it to your travel bucket list. Even if you don’t make a dedicated visit, stop by 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.