Angel Island is the San Francisco Bay’s “other” island, one of several islands situated alongside the renowned Alcatraz. Today, visitors can hike, explore historical military posts, visit the Immigration Station, and enjoy some of the finest views of the San Francisco skyline. This article details what you can see and how to experience it comfortably.

Top Sights

Key highlights of Angel Island, organized in a counterclockwise direction starting from the Visitor Center, include:

• Camp Reynolds: Established by the U.S. Army in 1863, this is the oldest permanent settlement on Angel Island, featuring some of the best-preserved Civil War military buildings in the country.
• Nike Missile Silo: Constructed in the southeast corner during the Cold War and utilized until 1962.
• Fort McDowell: Replacing Fort Reynolds, it served as a staging area for troops during key conflicts, including the Spanish-American War and both World Wars.
• Immigration Station: Active from 1910 to 1940, this facility processed over a million immigrants. Many Chinese immigrants faced long detentions, leading to poignant poetry carved into the barracks walls, remnants of this significant period.

Guided tours of these locations are available on weekends and holidays, allowing visitors to gain insights into their rich history.

Things to Do

• Take a Tram Tour: Ideal for those who prefer a guided overview without hiking, this tram tour covers major sites such as Camp Reynolds, the Nike Missile Site, and the Immigration Station. Check the schedule when you arrive.
• Experience a Segway Tour: A fun and dynamic way to explore the island while learning about its history from your guide.
• Walk the Perimeter Road: This 5-mile route is a nice alternative, especially if you opt for a shorter walk to the Immigration Station.
• Hiking: With 13 miles of walking trails, the moderate trek to the 781-foot Mount Livermore offers rewarding views.
• Bicycle or Kayak Rentals: Explore the island more freely by renting a bike or kayak.
• Picnic: Enjoy a meal with stunning views by picking up food from the Cove Cafe or bringing your barbecue essentials.
• Camping: A cherished experience on Angel Island with limited spots, perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.

Tips for Visiting

• Anyone bringing a pet should note that dogs are not allowed on Angel Island.
• Strollers are permitted, however, roller skates, roller blades, and skateboards are not allowed.
• To avoid long lines, it’s best to steer clear of the cafe shortly after ferry arrivals.
• Be mindful of ferry schedules; missing the last ferry can result in unexpected consequences.

The Basics

Angel Island State Park operates daily, with services like bike rentals and tram tours available seasonally. While reservations aren’t mandatory, they can be wise during weekends or summer months. A day-use fee is included in ferry tickets, and exploring is optimal from spring through fall, especially on clear days.

Location

Angel Island sits north of Alcatraz in the San Francisco Bay. Access is only available by boat, with several ferry services including Tiburon Ferry, Blue & Gold Ferry, and East Bay Ferry, or via personal boats. The ferry ride takes under thirty minutes and is typically priced comparably to a movie ticket.