Just past the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito emerges as one of the most picturesque towns in San Francisco—and arguably, the entire United States. Once a bustling hotspot for bootlegging during the Prohibition Era, this waterfront gem became a haven for rum runners seeking to indulge in forbidden libations. Today, Sausalito offers a quieter escape from the city’s beating heart, evoking the charm of European fishing villages with its relaxed pace and breathtaking panoramic views—including Angel Island, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco skyline. Below, discover a perfect 48-hour guide to where to sleep, eat, drink, and visit in this quaint seaside town.
Where to Stay:
The Inn Above Tide
Nestled along the San Francisco Bayfront, the Inn Above Tide is a true coastal dream. With its weathered cedar shingle exterior, this 33-room gem radiates effortless charm. Rooms like the Vista Suite feel like “your private box seat on the bay,” where rich jewel and earthy tones elegantly frame the stunning waterfront views you’ll soak in from sunrise to sunset.
Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa
A Sausalito staple, Casa Madrona has long been a favorite for locals and visitors drawn to this Northern California treasure. Blending laid-back Victorian charm with refreshed contemporary touches, the hotel features elegant four-poster king beds and windows, giving way to a historic, tree-lined hillside framing picturesque scenes of Richardson Bay Harbor and downtown Sausalito.
Where to Eat:
Scoma’s Restaurant
Scoma’s is Sausalito’s go-to spot for iconic Italian seafood—no question about it. Perched over the bay, its seats offer breathtaking dockside views from its window-lined walls. Must-tries include the creamy Boston-style Scoma’s Clam Chowder and the impossibly fresh Pacific Hog Island Oysters, sourced straight from the renowned Hog Island Oyster Co. in nearby Tomales Bay.
Suzette
Set in the heart of downtown Sausalito, Suzette’s is an oh-so-charming French café and bistro perfect for a morning pick-me-up. Start your day with the Scrambled Egg Sandwich on fresh-baked brioche, a classic Quiche Lorraine, or a traditional Croque Madame. Swing by for lunch, and don’t miss the Soupe à L’Oignon Gratinée (that’s French onion soup to you) for a cozy, flavorful treat.
Copita Tequileria y Comida
Gluten-free diners rejoice. Copita Tequileria y Comida serves an entirely gluten-free menu crafted with fresh, local, and organic ingredients. This quintessential Mexican spot is famous for its three-ingredient Copita Margarita—featuring Herradura Blanco, lime, and agave—served in a perfectly salted glass. Pair it with their fan-favorite Baja-style Cod Tacos, topped with Mexican slaw, creamy avocado, and a mouthwatering wasabi-Parmesan oil.
Sushi Ran
Mention you’re dining at Sushi Ran, and you’ll get plenty of “oohs” and “ahhs”—it’s a neighborhood favorite and one of the top sushi spots in the U.S., earning nods from Michelin and nationwide acclaim. For 36 years, owner Yoshi Tome has created an intimate dining experience in a sleek Japanese setting. Don’t miss the Spinach Salad with blanched local baby spinach and a crave-worthy black-and-white sesame sauce—so good, you might not want to share.
Where to Drink:
Barrel House Tavern
Drinks with a view? Say no more. Barrel House Tavern offers sweeping sights of SF landmarks like Treasure Island and the Bay Bridge, all from a chic yet cozy space with rustic touches—ideal for those foggy San Francisco days. Don’t miss the House Bloody Mary or the Old Fashioned, stirred to perfection with their in-house aged bourbon. Cheers to that.
Poggio Trattoria
Poggio Trattoria, a timeless Italian gem, has charmed locals and celebrities alike—Jennifer Garner even inspired one of their cocktails called the Jennifer Ti Amo. The drink menu balances tradition and creativity, featuring classics like the Bees Knees and Negroni alongside inventive sips like a salted caramel-infused espresso martini and the Last Train to Oaxaca, crafted with rye, mezcal, and chocolate bitters. It’s aperitivo hour, elevated.
What to Do:
Explore the Scenic and Historic Wonders Around Sausalito
One of the best perks of staying in Sausalito is the incredible areas to explore nearby. Drive to the Marin Headlands in Golden Gate National Park, where a fog-swept coastal prairie offers jaw-dropping views of the Golden Gate Bridge. History buffs will love Angel Island, a site rich with California’s past—from a Miwok fishing village to a Civil War military base, immigration station, and Cold War missile site. For outdoor lovers, the Tennessee Valley Trail is a magical hike that winds from the valley to the ocean.
Browse the Boutiques in Downtown Sausalito
From quirky souvenir shops like Hook House and Soxalito (we love the pun!) to upscale women’s boutiques like Amour Vert and 2Bella, shopaholics will thoroughly enjoy pursuing Downtown Sausalito and popping their head into each of these shops along the bay. Not only will you enjoy browsing these charming stores, but you’ll also support small businesses. Expect a laid-back, California-cool style that we can’t get enough of.
Take the Ferry for a Day Trip to San Francisco
A short ferry ride away, San Francisco and its West Coast charm are within easy reach (no car needed). Cruise past the hauntingly fascinating Alcatraz and arrive at the iconic SF Ferry Building, where you can easily spend the afternoon exploring artisan shops, cafés, and the Saturday Farmer’s Market. From there, head to Union Square, stop by the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop for a sweet treat, and take a taxi to Coit Tower for stunning 360-degree city views. End your day with a decadent steak dinner at EPIC Steak or its sister restaurant, Water Bar, with unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Take a Drive to Point Reyes & Tour the Historic Lighthouse
About a 45-minute drive from Sausalito, Point Reyes and its historic lighthouse, built in 1870 and restored in 2003, is a great activity to immerse yourself in Northern California’s natural beauty. With 308 steps leading to its observation platform, it’s one of the best spots for watching grey whales migrate. Located within Point Reyes National Seashore, the journey to the lighthouse takes you through picturesque countryside, still home to many rustic, historic cattle ranches. (Try popping into the Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company.)
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