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Where is Alcatraz located?
Alcatraz Island is located 1.25 miles offshore in the middle of San Francisco Bay. While the island itself is only accessible by boat, reaching the departure point—Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing—is easy from anywhere in the city. Here’s everything you need to know to get there smoothly.
Address: Pier 33, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
The pier sits along San Francisco’s scenic Embarcadero, between the Bay Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf. With sweeping views of the waterfront and Alcatraz Island visible in the distance, it serves as the sole departure point for all official Alcatraz ferry tours. The pier is not just a transportation hub—it’s the beginning of the Alcatraz experience, offering exhibits, ticketing facilities, and orientation before you board the ferry.
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🚶On foot
Walking to Pier 33 is part of the experience. The route takes you through some of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods and along its waterfront promenade, with plenty to see along the way.
If you’re staying in Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, or the Financial District, the pier is just a 10–25 minute walk away. The flat sidewalks and bayfront path make the walk easy, even for casual strollers.
Depending on where you start, here’s what you’ll pass:
- From Fisherman’s Wharf: Stroll past seafood shacks, souvenir shops, and street performers, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge peeking out in the distance.
- From North Beach: Walk through San Francisco’s historic Italian district, full of cafes and murals, then join the Embarcadero path.
- From the Financial District or Embarcadero BART: Walk north along the palm-lined waterfront with views of the Bay Bridge, passing the Ferry Building and public art installations.
- Near Pier 33, you’ll also find Pier 39 (a complete entertainment and dining hub), the Exploratorium, and various spots (Delah Coffee or Cassava Cafe) to grab a bite or coffee before your ferry departs.
🚋By public transportation
San Francisco’s public transport is well-connected, affordable, and scenic, making it easy to reach Pier 33 from most parts of the city.
MUNI Buses
F-Line Historic Streetcar
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Best for: Budget travellers
Travel time: 15–30 minutes (depending on the route)
Cost: $3 per ride, free for kids under 4
Routes: Bus 8, 30, 39, and 47
Nearest stop: North Point St & The Embarcadero or Kearny St & North Point
Directions: From either stop, walk 5–7 minutes along the waterfront to Pier 33
Tip: Use Google Maps or the MuniMobile app for real-time bus arrivals and quickest transfers.
Best for: Tourists staying along Market Street, Union Square, or Embarcadero
Travel time: 15–25 minutes (from Market St/Union Square)
Cost: $3 per ride (Muni fare), Clipper card accepted
Boarding point: Any F-line stop along Market Street or The Embarcadero
Nearest stops: Bay St & The Embarcadero — directly across from Pier 33
Directions: Once off the streetcar, just cross the road and follow the signs for Alcatraz Cruises
Note: This vintage streetcar is both a mode of transport and a sightseeing experience in itself—great bay views, colorful historic cars, and lots of photo ops.
Best for: Travelers coming from Oakland, Berkeley, SFO, or downtown San Francisco
Travel time: 10–30 minutes (from central SF); ~40 minutes from SFO
Cost: $2–$10, depending on distance (use a Clipper card or purchase a paper ticket)
Boarding point: Any BART station (e.g., Civic Center, Powell, Montgomery, or Embarcadero)
Nearest stop: Embarcadero Station
Directions: Exit at Embarcadero, walk ~25 minutes along the waterfront, or transfer to the F-Line Streetcar for a quicker ride to Pier 33
Tip: If you're short on time, use rideshare for the last leg from Embarcadero BART to the pier.
🚗By car
Driving to Pier 33 is possible, but parking can be a challenge, especially during peak hours. Rideshare is often the smoother option if you're looking to avoid the hassle.
Best for: Visitors staying outside San Francisco or those with limited mobility
Travel time: Varies based on your starting point and city traffic
Cost: Depends on tolls and parking (expect $20–$40 for nearby garages)
Route tip: Use The Embarcadero as your main approach; avoid Market Street during rush hour
Nearby parking options:
- 80 Francisco Street Garage – 3-minute walk to Pier 33
Approx. $5–8/hour | Daily max: ~$30 - Pier 39 Garage (Beach St.) – 10-minute walk
Approx. $10/hour | Daily max: ~$45 - Metropolis Parking at 55 Francisco Street – 2-minute walk
Approx. $6/hour | Daily max: ~$35
Tip: Arrive early—spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends and in summer.
Frequently asked questions about directions to Alcatraz Island
Is Pier 33 the only place to board the Alcatraz ferry?
Yes. All official ferries to Alcatraz Island depart exclusively from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. There are no alternative boarding points.
Is public transportation reliable to get to Pier 33?
Absolutely. Between Muni buses, the F-line streetcar, and nearby BART stations, public transit offers easy and affordable access to the pier.
Is the pier wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. Pier 33, the boarding area, and the ferry itself are all fully wheelchair-accessible. There are also accessible restrooms and assistance available on-site.
Can I drive to Alcatraz Island?
No. The island is only accessible by ferry. However, you can drive to Pier 33, park nearby in public garages, and board from there.
What are the peak traffic hours around Pier 33?
Expect heavier traffic between 7:30–9:30am and 4–6:30pm on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the area can stay busy most of the day due to tourist footfall.