10 Best Islands near San Francisco

While San Francisco is famous for its cable cars, fog-covered bridges, and iconic sourdough bread, it’s also the launching point for some of the West Coast’s most captivating islands. Dotted across the sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay and beyond, these islands blend natural beauty with rich history.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape into nature, a deep dive into California’s past, or a quick weekend getaway, the islands around San Francisco deliver. Explore hidden gems at Brooks Island Regional Preserve, or hop over to Treasure Island for a festival-filled adventure.
So grab your camera, lace up your walking shoes, and set sail—here are the 10 best islands near San Francisco.

Located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz once housed America’s most notorious criminals on its rocky, windswept terrain. Today, the former prison is a fascinating museum filled with eerie tales. Some visitors even claim to hear ghostly footsteps echoing through the corridors—spooky bonus included at no extra charge. Located just north of North Beach, the island is reachable by ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing (a 20-minute ride). Book tickets online well in advance—they sell out faster than a prison break.

Angel Island is a serene getaway featuring hiking trails and sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline, Mount Tamalpais, and the Marin Headlands. Once a military base, it’s now a state park filled with picnic areas, scenic trails, and a historic immigration station. You’ll find everything for a stress-free day—boat docks, restrooms, and even campsites if you can’t bear to leave the view behind.

Treasure Island, a man-made marvel in the heart of the bay, offers unbeatable city views and a lively social scene. Its highlight is TreasureFest, where over 400 local vendors show off antiques, vintage finds, and handmade crafts—plus food trucks and live music to keep spirits high. Think of it as San Francisco’s floating flea market with skyline views.

About 21 miles northeast of San Francisco, Richmond’s Brooks Island covers 373 acres of meadows and low hills. Accessible only via ranger-guided tour, it’s a hidden gem for wildlife lovers. Birdwatchers rejoice—this is home to California gulls, Caspian terns, black oystercatchers, and more. Bring binoculars and curiosity; leave only footprints.

Just 14 miles east of San Francisco, Alameda charms visitors with Victorian-era homes, boutique shops, and inviting restaurants. At Crown Memorial State Beach, stroll or swim along 2.5 miles of shoreline while enjoying sweeping bay views. Don’t miss the USS Hornet Museum, a World War II aircraft carrier turned museum showcasing both historic aircraft and artifacts from NASA’s Apollo missions. Aviation nerds—this one’s your runway.

Tucked in Marin County, Belvedere Island is linked to Tiburon by two causeways and lined with dreamy Victorian and Mediterranean-style homes. It’s yacht-club central—both the San Francisco Yacht Club and Corinthian Yacht Club call it home. For hikers, nearby Ring Mountain offers panoramic views and ancient Coast Miwok petroglyphs. The vistas alone are worth the climb (and the post-hike selfie).

Yerba Buena Island, between San Francisco and Oakland, has a military history stretching back to the 1870s. Today, you can stroll past its old lighthouse and enjoy the calm at Clipper Cove, a dog-friendly beach perfect for picnics or kayaking. The island connects to Treasure Island via a causeway—so you can double your island time without doubling the travel.

Located about 30 miles offshore, the Farallon Islands are a wildlife paradise—though you can’t actually set foot on them. Protected as part of the Farallon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, they’re home to puffins, sea lions, seals, and even humpback whales. Wildlife-watching cruises run May to November; keep your camera ready, because you might just spot an orca breaching dramatically for your Instagram.

Part of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Bair Island spans nearly 3,000 acres of tidal wetlands and salt marshes. Its trio of islands—Inner, Middle, and Outer Bair—host curlews, egrets, and endangered species like the salt marsh harvest mouse. A 1.7-mile trail leads to an observation deck, offering peaceful views and a perfect reminder that nature still wins in Silicon Valley’s backyard.

About 21 miles north of San Francisco, the Marin Island National Wildlife Refuge protects 329 acres of bird paradise. West Marin Island shelters colonies of great blue herons and snowy egrets, while East Marin supports the native plants they depend on. It’s a protected area closed to the public—but you can spot it (and its feathery residents) from nearby San Rafael’s shoreline.

Stay in the heart of San Francisco — book your room now at Europa Hotel SF and make your visit unforgettable!