Alcatraz Island is a National Historic Landmark in San Francisco Bay, within Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and every visit begins with a ferry from Pier 33.
From La Casa Inn, the island is about 1.8 miles away; the ferry ride itself takes about 12–15 minutes. The waterfront itinerary can also include what to know before visiting USS Pampanito at Pier 45.
- Ferry terminal: Pier 33, near The Embarcadero and Bay Street.
- Ferry operator: Alcatraz City Cruises is the official service provider.
- Time on the island: Allow at least two to three hours.
- Cellhouse audio tour: Included with the ferry ticket; it lasts 45–60 minutes.
Where does the Alcatraz ferry depart?
The Alcatraz ferry departs from Pier 33, near the intersection of The Embarcadero and Bay Street. Alcatraz City Cruises LLC operates the ferry under contract with the National Park Service, and private vessels cannot dock on the island. From a 2.5-star motel in Russian Hill, Pier 33 is reachable by public transportation.
The National Park Service recommends public transportation to Pier 33; the historic Muni F Line streetcars run past Alcatraz Landing. Parking is not available at the landing, though commercial parking lots are nearby.
If you are planning time around the waterfront, Aquatic Park and Fisherman's Wharf are close to the Pier 33 area. The walk from Russian Hill to Aquatic Park and Fisherman's Wharf can help you plan that part of your day.
How do you get from La Casa Inn to Pier 33?
Public transportation is the National Park Service’s recommended way to reach Pier 33 from San Francisco neighborhoods, and the Muni F Line passes the landing.
For travel around the city, San Francisco’s cable cars offer another transit option; how to ride cable cars from Russian Hill is useful when planning connections.
How do Alcatraz tickets and ferry times work?
Buy ferry tickets before the day of your visit, especially for summer and holiday weekends, when tickets may sell out several weeks in advance. Ticket prices vary by tour package. The National Park Service directs visitors to Alcatraz City Cruises for current schedules, prices, and advance purchases.
Tickets are available online, by telephone at (415) 981-7625, and in person at the Pier 33 ticket office. San Francisco departures begin at 8:45 a.m., with ferries running approximately every 30 to 40 minutes. You can return on any ferry, subject to service and the island’s closing time.
Closing time varies by season: Alcatraz closes at 6:30 p.m. in summer and 4:30 p.m. in fall, winter, and spring. The island is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day, and may close rarely because of extreme weather. For current schedules, prices, and any service changes, check the official site before you go.
What should you expect on Alcatraz Island?
Allow at least two to three hours on Alcatraz, including time to explore the island and take the Cellhouse audio tour. The tour is included with the ferry ticket and takes 45–60 minutes. You may stay as long as you wish, provided you leave before closing and use a returning ferry.
Along with the Cellhouse tour, you can explore island exhibits or attend free talks and tours. Daily ranger-program details are posted at the dock, so check them when you arrive.
The walk from the dock to the Cellhouse is about 0.4 miles, with a 130-foot elevation change. Most island roads and walking routes have extreme slopes. The accessible S.E.A.T. electric shuttle transports visitors with mobility impairments between the dock and Cellhouse and runs approximately every half hour in each direction.
Alcatraz Landing at Pier 33 is fully accessible. Island accessibility features include an elevator to the Cellhouse’s second story, accessible restrooms, assistive listening devices, open captioning, Braille materials, and audio-described and American Sign Language tour options. Limited accessible parking is available at the landing on a first-come, first-served basis for visitors displaying a disabled placard.
Food on the island is limited to dry snacks and candy sold at the bookstore. Bring a light jacket or sweater: island weather can change unexpectedly.
FAQs
Can you visit Alcatraz without taking a ferry?
No. All access to Alcatraz Island is by ferry, and private vessels are prohibited from docking there.
How long is the Alcatraz ferry ride?
The ride takes about 12–15 minutes, according to the National Park Service.
Can you return on a different ferry than the one you arrived on?
Yes. Visitors may return on any ferry, subject to the day’s closing time and ferry service.
Is food available on Alcatraz?
Food options are limited to dry snacks and candy sold at the bookstore. The National Park Service advises bringing a light jacket or sweater because weather can change unexpectedly.