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Contents
Day vs night tour
📋 Feature
☀️ Day tour
🌙 Night tour
1
Ferry route
Straight route from Pier 33 to the main dock.
Includes a full 360° circle around the island before docking—exclusive to night tours.
2
Duration + schedule
Flexible—ferries run about every 30 minutes until late afternoon.
Three departures per evening, with a structured 2.5–3 hour program.
3
Group-size
Daytime tours can accommodate several thousand visitors daily; the experience is lively and social.
Night tours are capped at around 600 guests per evening, offering a calmer, more intimate visit.
4
Access
Standard access—prison grounds and Cellhouse only.
Offers after-hours access to areas like the hospital wing and A‑Block.
5
Guided experience
Self-guided audio tour; optional ranger talks.
Includes curated ranger-led programs not available during the day.
6
Atmosphere + scenery
Bright natural light—great for general sightseeing and photos.
More moody and atmospheric with sunset views and dramatic lighting.
Book your Alcatraz day tour
Things to know before you embark on the day tour
Basics 101
Nearby dining options
Visitor tips
Location: Tours depart from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, located along San Francisco’s Embarcadero. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time for check-in.
Timings: Day tours operate daily, including weekends. Morning and afternoon departure slots are available, starting around 8:40am and continuing throughout the day.
Accessibility: The ferry and most areas of the island are wheelchair accessible. An electric tram, the SEAT (Sustainable Easy Access Transport), is available for those with limited mobility.
Duration: Expect 2.5–3 hours, including the ferry ride.
Group size: Day tours generally attract larger crowds than night tours, so book early for your preferred time slot, especially during peak tourist seasons. Each ferry ride can carry up to 700 people.
- Fog City (Upscale – 5-minute walk): Modern American cuisine with bay views. Great for pre-tour beverages and dinner.
- Hillstone (Mid-range – 7-minute walk): A reliable spot for hearty American fare and a relaxed ambiance.
- Coqueta (Mid-range—8-minute walk): This restaurant offers Spanish small plates and waterfront seating. It is ideal for couples or small groups.
- Boudin Bakery Café (Budget—6-minute walk): This casual spot is known for its sourdough and soups. It's great for a quick bite before boarding.
- Booking early is essential—day tours sell out quickly, especially during summer and holidays, so purchase tickets at least several weeks in advance
- Bring your snacks or a packed lunch, as no food service is available on the island beyond bottled water. Eating is only allowed at the dock area
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress in layers; even a sunny start can turn into a cold, foggy afternoon on the Bay
- Wear comfortable, grippy shoes—the quarter-mile climb uphill is equivalent to a 13-story staircase and includes steep, uneven paths
- Download the National Park Service app and complete the Cellhouse Audio Tour from your phone; charging your device beforehand is strongly recommended
- Start with a morning departure to avoid afternoon fog and enjoy clearer views of the island and the Golden Gate Bridge
- Take a moment at the dock restroom or near the lighthouse—it’s the only accessible facility, and lines can form during peak times.
- You can pick up a $1 island map brochure at the dock; it provides helpful context and directions for your self-guided walk.
Frequently asked questions about Alcatraz day tours
Can I buy tickets on the spot, at Pier 33?
It’s not recommended. Alcatraz day tours often sell out in advance. Booking online in advance is the safest way to secure your spot.
Can I change my Alcartraz day tour ticket to a night tour?
Tickets are non-transferable between tour types. If you’d like to switch, you’ll need to cancel your day tour (if refundable) and book the night tour separately, subject to availability.
How long can I stay on the island during the day?
You can explore at your own pace. Most visitors spend about 2.5 to 3 hours, but you can stay until the last daytime return ferry (around 6:30pm).
Is a guided visit available on a day tour?
Yes. While much of the island is self-guided, park rangers offer free talks and tours on select topics throughout the day.
Do I need to book a separate ticket for the Cellhouse Audio Tour?
No, the award-winning Cellhouse Audio Tour is included in all standard day tour tickets.
Can I bring my child on the Alcatraz day tour?
Yes. Children of all ages are welcome. There’s no ticket fee for kids under 5, but strollers may not be suitable for some steep paths.
Is photography allowed on the tour?
Absolutely. Photography is encouraged—just avoid flash inside the Cellhouse and respect restricted areas.
What is the best time of the day to go on an Alcatraz day tour?
Morning tours usually offer clearer skies and fewer crowds. Afternoon tours have warmer light and longer shadows, great for photos.
Are day tours available every day, throughout the year?
Yes, Alcatraz day tours run daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.