San Francisco: Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf & Optional Extras
Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco
Explore Fisherman's Wharf to see historic ships, arcade games, sea lions, and more. Then visit Alcatraz Island with your audio guide. Upgrade for more views: a bay cruise or the SkyStar Wheel.
San Francisco North Beach Walking Tour with Alcatraz Cruise
This guided walking tour of North Beach in San Francisco includes a cruise to Alcatraz Island, suited for visitors interested in history and city exploration.
Highlights
- Cruise to Alcatraz Island and tour the historic prison with an audio guide
- Explore North Beach with a knowledgeable local guide
- Visit Saints Peter and Paul Church and learn about its history
- See the sea lions at Pier 39 and discover their story
- Optional upgrade: ride the SkyStar Wheel for views 150 feet above the city
Description
The tour begins at Washington Square Park, San Francisco’s first public park, where you will hear about its role following the 1906 earthquake and fire. Enjoy views of Coit Tower and vintage lampposts as you explore the neighborhood.
Step inside Saints Peter and Paul Church to see its Italian marble altar and learn about its connection to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. Walk through the colorful streets of North Beach, often called San Francisco’s “Little Italy,” with views of Lombard Street and the Golden Gate Bridge along the way.
At Pier 39, observe the sea lions that gather there and learn why they have made it their home. From here, your guide will escort you to the departing cruise for Alcatraz Island. On Alcatraz, use the included audio guide to explore the prison at your own pace, visit the gardens, and browse the exhibits. You can return to the city at your own leisure.
If you choose to upgrade, enjoy additional activities such as a one-hour bay cruise or a ride on the SkyStar Wheel, offering elevated views of the San Francisco skyline and surrounding nature.
Includes
- Cruise to Alcatraz Island
- Self-guided audio tour of the Alcatraz prison
- Guided walking tour of North Beach
- Professional San Francisco guide
- Optional upgrade: one-hour bay cruise
- Optional upgrade: SkyStar Wheel ticket
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Tips
- Food and drinks
Important Information
- Legal names (first and last) of all participants must match government-issued photo ID for adults 18+; failure to provide correct names may lead to reservation cancellation
- All guest names must be submitted at least 10 days before the tour date
- The tour operates rain or shine
- The walking portion lasts about 90 minutes; Alcatraz visit typically takes around 3 hours and is self-guided
- SkyStar Wheel and Bay Cruise upgrades are self-guided with included tickets if selected
- The walking tour is conducted in English only; the Alcatraz audio tour is available in multiple languages including Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish
- This tour is non-refundable and non-changeable
Cancellation Policy
This activity is non-refundable.
Book in advance and bring government-issued ID matching your reservation. The best time to visit is during morning hours to avoid afternoon crowds on Alcatraz Island.
