Alcatraz tickets and tours
Book your timed ferry and the tour style that fits your day.
About Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz’s most popular option is the Day Tour with the Cellhouse Audio Tour included.
Special departures include the Night Tour with extra programs and limited capacity, and the Behind the Scenes Tour with smaller groups.
Early Bird departures offer quieter morning access; some combos include nearby attractions.
Audio available in multiple languages; ranger talks are offered in English with occasional multilingual support.
Browse all options to match your schedule, pace, and interests.
Ticket Options
Pick the option that fits your plans
Ticket Options
Pick the option that fits your plans
San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Entry + Roundtrip Ferry
The classic Alcatraz experience: roundtrip ferry service and island entry
Zero hassle, maximum views and stories.
San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour + 1-Hour Cruise
Go inside Alcatraz, then enjoy a relaxing 1‑hour bay cruise
History first, skyline next — perfect combo.
San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Entry + Hop-on Hop-off Bus
Pair Alcatraz island entry with a flexible hop‑on hop‑off bus pass
See the city your way, then conquer the Rock.
San Francisco: Alcatraz Entry + Roundtrip Ferry + Audio Guide + Night Option
Get onto Alcatraz with roundtrip ferry, a guided audio tour, and the chance to upgrade to the spooky Night Tour
Easy, iconic, and unforgettable.
San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour + Muir Woods & Sausalito
Explore Alcatraz inside, then escape to the redwoods of Muir Woods and the seaside vibes of Sausalito
Big day, bigger memories.
San Francisco: City Tour by Bus + Alcatraz Island Tour
See SF’s highlights on a comfy bus tour, then head to Alcatraz for the full island experience
One ticket, two great tours.
San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Night Tour + Muir Woods & Sausalito
The coveted Night Tour of Alcatraz, plus redwoods and seaside Sausalito in one epic day
Limited spots — book early!
San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Entry + Guided Electric Bike Tour
Alcatraz entry, then glide through SF on an e‑bike with a local guide
Cover more sights with way less effort.
San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Entry + Small Group City Tour
Skip the crowds with a cozy small‑group city tour, then head to Alcatraz for the island visit
Personal, relaxed, and thorough.
Why book online?
Lock in your preferred date and departure — popular times sell out fast.
Choose among Day, Night, or Behind the Scenes tours and select your language for the Cellhouse Audio Tour.
Mobile tickets and timed boarding make your waterfront morning smooth and stress‑free.
What to expect on the island
A half‑day of bay breezes, weighty history, and stellar views — a simple plan:
Catch an early ferry. Climb or ride the accessible SEAT tram to the Cellhouse and pick up your audio tour. Trace the escape stories, stand in solitary, and peer into the dining hall.
Afterward, circle the recreation yard, lighthouse, and overlooks. Pause in the historic gardens, spot nesting seabirds, and finish with a slow bay‑view stroll back to the dock.
Location & Opening Hours
- Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, California, USA
- From Fisherman’s Wharf: walk 10–15 minutes east along The Embarcadero to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing.
- From Embarcadero BART: take the F‑Line streetcar or walk about 25 minutes north along the waterfront.
- Visiting timetable
- Advance booking is essential — many dates sell out days or weeks ahead.
- info@alcatraz‑island.visit-sf.com
Find all departures at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing (The Embarcadero, between Bay St and Sansome St).
Alcatraz: frequently asked questions
Contact & More Information
- Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, California, USA
- Email: info@alcatraz‑island.visit-sf.com
- Phone: see the official ferry operator and NPS websites for current contacts
Reserve early — many tours allow changes with notice, but popular dates sell out quickly.
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Selmo Rosato
I wrote this guide to make your Alcatraz day easy, informative, and memorable — with honest tips gathered from repeat visits.
Cancellation Policy
Ticket changes and cancellations vary by tour type and date — check the policy before booking.
Group Discounts
Groups and schools may request special arrangements; availability and requirements vary seasonally.
Important Booking Information
Arrive at Pier 33 at least 30 minutes before departure; boarding closes prior to sailing.
Wear layers — wind and fog are common even on sunny days; comfortable shoes recommended.
Plan extra time for ranger programs and the audio tour — they’re highlights.
Keep your tickets and photo ID handy for check‑in at Pier 33.