Visit Alcatraz Island, where history echoes louder than the waves. Board the ferry across the cold bay, then step onto the rock that once held America’s toughest criminals. Walk the same corridors where legends like Al Capone were imprisoned, hear stories of daring escapes, and stand in cells that still carry the weight of silence. It’s not just a tour—it’s a visceral journey into the past, where every creak of the floorboard feels like a whisper from another era.

This hotel is the perfect blend of family-friendly and business-savvy! Located near Fisherman's Wharf, it's just a short walk to Ghirardelli Square and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. With childcare services and a game room, kids will have a blast while adults unwind with massages and facials. Don't miss the free evening reception to mingle with other guests, or relax at the bar after a busy day. The rooms are luxurious, featuring designer toiletries and Italian Frette linens—pure comfort!










Everything you need to know about Alcatraz
The Fairmont San Francisco is ideal for visitors planning a trip to Alcatraz Island, located just a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal at Pier 33. This iconic luxury hotel offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco, along with elegant rooms and exceptional service. Its historic architecture and world-class dining enhance the overall experience.
Alternatively, Hyatt Regency San Francisco near Fisherman’s Wharf provides complimentary shuttle buses to the ferry dock, ensuring seamless travel. Both properties are renowned for their convenience, safety, and high standards, making them top choices for travelers seeking comfort before or after exploring the infamous prison island.
The most convenient way is to board the official ferry from Pier 39 (Fisherman’s Wharf) or Pier 33 (Union Square). Ferries depart multiple times daily with a 15-minute ride across the San Francisco Bay, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Strait and the city skyline. Tickets should be booked in advance online to avoid long lines.
Many hotels, such as The Fairmont and Hyatt Regency, provide complimentary shuttle services to the ferry terminal, greatly enhancing convenience. Ferry schedules vary by season—arrive early during peak months to secure your spot. Once on Alcatraz Island, guided tours are required; self-guided exploration is not permitted. This journey blends scenic beauty with rich historical insight, making it a must-do experience in San Francisco.
Beyond touring the prison ruins and cell blocks, the guided audio tour is essential—led by expert historians who detail the island’s dark past, including notorious inmates like **
Hyatt Regency San Francisco is ideal for visitors to Alcatraz, located just a 15-minute drive from the island's pier with complimentary ferry shuttle services. The hotel features modern architecture, city skyline-view rooms, and a world-class spa, offering a relaxing retreat after exploring the historic prison.
For a more immersive experience, consider The Fairmont San Francisco, renowned for its classic architectural design and prime location. It’s within walking distance of City Hall and Union Square (just 10 minutes), making it perfect for planning a full-day itinerary that includes a visit to Alcatraz, while enjoying luxury amenities and panoramic views of the bay.
Ferry service to Alcatraz is operated by Golden Gate Ferry, departing daily from Pier 33 in San Francisco. The first departure is at 8:00 AM, with the last boat leaving around 5:00 PM, running hourly. Tickets should be booked in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a seat.
The 20-minute journey offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Upon arrival, visitors can join guided tours exploring the former military fort ruins, nature trails, and the historic museum—approximately 2.5 hours long—ideal for families and history enthusiasts.
Yes, advance HopeGoo is mandatory to visit Alcatraz Island. All visitors must purchase ferry tickets and guided tour passes through the official website Alcatraz Cruises, including standard tours, evening tours, or themed experiences like the "Ghost Tour".
Due to limited daily visitor capacity, especially during peak season, tickets sell out quickly. It’s recommended to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance. Some tours, such as the "Underground Prison" special experience, require additional fees and can be selected based on personal interest. After HopeGoo, an e-ticket is issued and must be scanned at the pier for entry.
Tours on Alcatraz include several options: the Standard Tour (90 minutes) covers cell blocks, the infirmary, and telegraph room; the Night Tour (approx. 2 hours) uses lighting effects and eerie storytelling to explore ghost legends;
There are also themed tours such as "War & Defense," focusing on military history, and "Ecology & Conservation," highlighting native plants and bird species. Tours are offered in English, Spanish, and Mandarin, with private guides available upon request. Opting for a bundled package including ferry tickets saves time and ensures seamless access to the island.
The most convenient option is taking the Golden Gate Ferry from Pier 33 (near Fisherman’s Wharf), which takes about 20 minutes to reach Alcatraz Pier. The direct route offers scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, with no transfers needed.
Alternatively, Muni Bus Line 43 runs to the waterfront stop, followed by a shuttle bus, but this is slower and less frequent. For active travelers, renting a bike and riding along the Bay Trail to the pier is a scenic alternative, passing through beautiful coastal landscapes—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
See what other travelers say about Alcatraz

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk to Fisherman’s Wharf and super convenient for exploring downtown San Francisco. Even though the resort fee is included, the daily complimentary coffee in the morning was a nice touch and really made the day start right. The room was spotlessly clean, and while the showerhead is mounted from the ceiling (which takes some getting used to), everything else about the stay was excellent. Great value for the price, and I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area.

Staying at Axiom Hotel was an absolute delight! Right outside the door is the trolley bus terminal and subway station, making transportation to anywhere in San Francisco incredibly convenient. The hotel itself is spotlessly clean with a fresh, modern vibe. I was especially impressed by the spacious bathroom—so much room compared to other hotels I've stayed in. One standout feature is the water dispensers on every floor; you can refill your bottle anytime instead of relying on bottled water. It's eco-friendly, cost-effective, and super practical. For travelers who value convenience, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches like this, Axiom Hotel is a top-tier choice. I’d stay here again without hesitation.

Staying at Hotel Zephyr Fishermans Wharf was a fantastic experience, especially because of the location just steps away from Pier 39. Even late at night, I felt completely safe—there was always a security guard stationed right in front of the hotel. The rooms are spacious, well-designed, and clean, with plenty of options to choose from. It’s clear that comfort and safety were top priorities in the design. I loved how convenient it was for exploring downtown San Francisco and nearby attractions. Highly recommend this place for travelers who value both comfort and security.

Had a fantastic stay at Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco! The room was the perfect size for solo travelers—cozy and well-designed, though couples with lots of luggage might want to keep that in mind. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk from Union Square and surrounded by great transit options, making exploring the city super easy. I also appreciated having access to a relaxed common area before check-in and after check-out—ideal for unwinding or waiting without rushing off. Plus, the $15 breakfast credit at the on-site café was such a nice touch; it made my mornings more enjoyable and added real value to the experience.

Hotel Zetta San Francisco is an absolute gem for the price. The value for money is outstanding—everything from the staff to the room amenities delivers more than expected. The service stands out: friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful from check-in to check-out. While the decor isn’t luxury-level, it’s clean, modern, and well-maintained—perfectly suited to its pricing. What truly impressed me was the bedding: incredibly comfortable, soft, and made for a restful night’s sleep. Located just steps away from public transit, it’s easy to explore downtown and nearby attractions. Plus, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. If you're looking for a cozy, convenient, and affordable stay in San Francisco without sacrificing comfort or service, this hotel is a top pick.

I stayed at Jackson Court during a busy trip that included a visit to Yosemite National Park. I checked in one day, left the next morning for Yosemite, and returned two days later to check back in. The staff were incredibly accommodating—they gladly stored my luggage while I was away, no questions asked. When I returned late at night, my room was ready and waiting, even Kate had been notified to greet me personally. It felt so thoughtful and welcoming after a long journey. The seamless experience made all the difference, especially with such a packed schedule. I truly appreciate how well-organized and guest-focused the team is—this hotel deserves every bit of its perfect score.

I had an absolutely wonderful stay at this hotel! The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment I arrived. Every morning, free coffee and hot cocoa were available in the lobby—such a nice touch. They also offered flavored water, which was refreshing and appreciated. There’s a washer and dryer on one of the upper floors, perfect for longer stays. My room came equipped with a microwave, coffee maker, blender, and fridge—great for preparing meals or snacks. The housekeeping team was also very kind and professional. The entire place felt clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. It truly felt like a five-star experience without the high price tag. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit San Francisco—highly recommend!

Staying at Inn San Francisco was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean, with every corner spotless and well-maintained—no dust, no mess, just pure comfort. The bed was incredibly cozy, making for a restful night's sleep and a refreshing morning. The staff were beyond friendly and attentive, always smiling and ready to help with anything. Their warmth made the whole experience feel personal and welcoming. The Wi-Fi connection was lightning fast—perfect for streaming or working remotely—and the air conditioning kept the room perfectly cool without being too cold. Parking was convenient, and the location is ideal for exploring downtown San Francisco. With great dining options nearby and excellent value for money, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back!

This backpacker hostel is a hidden gem in San Francisco—small but full of charm and great energy. Even though it's compact, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The owner is super friendly and organizes daily activities like local tours, game nights, and group dinners, so you never feel alone on your trip. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and the shared spaces are always tidy—definitely above average for a hostel. It’s perfectly located near public transit, just a short ride from major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: there’s a fantastic Hunan restaurant right downstairs—authentic flavors and great value. Just mention the hostel name when ordering, and you’ll get a discount! If you’re looking for an affordable, social, and well-run stay in SF, this place is absolutely worth booking. I’d definitely come back.

Staying at Green Tortoise Hostel was a fantastic experience! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the main attractions and right next to the BART station, making it super easy to explore San Francisco. The dorm rooms are clean, well-organized, and surprisingly quiet for a hostel. The beds were comfortable, and I slept really well. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local tips that made our trip even better. What really stood out was the value—affordable rates without compromising on quality or comfort. It’s perfect for budget travelers who still want a welcoming, social atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting SF, especially solo travelers or backpackers looking for a memorable stay.

The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.

We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.
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