Alcatraz Island is one of San Francisco's most-visited attractions, and the crossing from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing takes only about 15 minutes. This guide collects the San Francisco-side planning pages: transportation, timing, and how to combine the island with the rest of the waterfront.
Getting to the island from San Francisco
- How to Get to Alcatraz Island — The one route to the island, and how to reach the departure pier.
- Pier 33: The Alcatraz Departure Pier — Directions to Pier 33 by transit, car and on foot, plus arrival timing.
- Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing Guide — Inside the terminal: queueing, boarding, facilities and bag rules.
- Alcatraz in San Francisco — Where the island sits, how it relates to the city, and how to reach it.
Tours and tickets
- Alcatraz Island Tours in San Francisco — Day, night, Behind the Scenes and combination tours compared side by side.
- Alcatraz Cruises from San Francisco — What the Alcatraz cruise involves, from Pier 33 boarding to the island dock.
- Alcatraz Tickets: What to Know Before You Book — How Alcatraz ticketing works, what admission covers and how early to reserve.
- Alcatraz Ferry Tickets Guide — How ferry ticketing, departure times and return sailings work at Pier 33.
Timing your visit
- Alcatraz Ferry Schedule and Visiting Hours — Seasonal sailing patterns, first and last ferries, and choosing a slot.
- How Long Does an Alcatraz Tour Take? — Segment-by-segment timings, from pier arrival to the return sailing.
- The Best Time to Visit Alcatraz Island — Season-by-season and hour-by-hour advice on crowds, weather and light.