Sausalito, California

Sausalito takes its name for the "little willow" trees (Saucelito) which 18th century Spanish explorers found growing along its streams. Sausalito is a small town of only 7,500 residents, best known for its spectacular waterfront views. It's a quiet, charming town that some say reminds them of the Mediterranean.

Music fans may be interested to know that performer Otis Redding wrote his hit song "The Dock of the Bay" in Sausalito, where he had rented a houseboat in late 1967 to get some peace and quiet.

What to do in Sausalito, California

Most Sausalito visitors restrict their visit to a stroll past the art galleries and souvenir shops along Bridgeway. To get a different point of view, take a walk north along the waterfront, past the yacht harbor. Along the way, you'll find the Bay Model, a three-dimensional hydraulic model of the San Francisco and Delta covering over 1.5 acres.

Best Time to Visit Sausalito, California

Any time is fine for a Sausalito visit, but it's truly spectacular when the air is clear and San Francisco is visible across the bay. After dark, the town gets very quiet.

The annual Sausalito Art Festival, held over Labor Day weekend, draws a broad selection of artists and craftsmen.

Sausalito, California Dining

My favorite Sausalito dining spot is Spinnaker, a restaurant with one of the Bay Area's best views. Try to arrive shortly before sunset and watch the lights come up in San Francisco during your meal. Other restaurant options include Scoma's and the Water Street Grille.

For a less expensive meal, get sandwiches from the deli on Bridgeway, take it across the street, take a seat on the rocks and enjoy the view.

Sausalito, California Lodging

While Sausalito is rich with charm, it's short on places to stay, and is usually visited as a day trip from San Francisco. If you want to stay overnight, try Casa Madrona, The Inn Above Tide, Hotel Sausalito or Gables Inn.

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Getting to Sausalito, California

An easy way to get to Sausalito is by ferry. You can catch the Golden Gate Ferry from the Ferry Building (Embarcadero at Market) or Blue and Gold Fleet from near Pier 39.

By car, take US 101 north across the Golden Gate Bridge. Exit at the first exit past the north vista point (Alexander Avenue) and follow it downhill into Sausalito. Bicyclists can follow the same route.

Public parking is available at parking meters and in paid lots just off Bridgeway, on the north side of downtown.