Bay Bridge
Highway 80 West, San Francisco
The basics
Since the bridge is a valuable thoroughfare—and because of its proximity to Downtown San Francisco—many city sightseeing tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, and plane and helicopter tours provide perfect views of the Bay Bridge. You'll also get bridge views if you book a regional tour to nearby attractions, like Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, or Santa Barbara. Since most tours leave from San Francisco, some even cross the Bay Bridge.
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise
$48.00 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Worth every minute. Must do in San Francisco.
It is only tour of it's kind during the day that covers both the bridges and Alcatraz. Especially on board with one of it's kind Enhydra boat.
Kchitij_T, Jan 2023
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Things to know before you go
- Bridge tolls are collected from westbound traffic; rates vary by time of day, and day of the week.
- Walk, or ride a bike, over the east span of the bridge—between Oakland and Yerba Buena Island.
- Urban hikes and city Segway tours that head to the Embarcadero typically offer bridge views.
- For top value, just hop on a ferry to nearby Angel Island or Tiburon—you'll only spend a few bucks, and view the bridge from the water.
How to get there
The Bay Bridge spans the San Francisco Bay, connecting Oakland to San Francisco. If you want to drive over the bridge, connect via I-80 (from points east) or the US-101 (from points north or south). Your best bet to avoid the drive and enjoy views of the bridge is by booking a Bay cruise or sailing tour. Many offer great inclusions, like onboard brunch or an evening wine tasting.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The best time to see the bridge is at night—a dramatic light array transforms the structure into an art installation, visible from the San Francisco waterfront. You can also visit during the day to enjoy views of the bridge and shoreline beyond. Plan to arrive between April and November for the best weather and fewer tourists. Regardless of when you arrive, bring a jacket—the waterfront tends to be windy.
Visiting the Ferry Building
Just a short drive from the Bay Bridge is the Ferry Building, a San Francisco marketplace packed with vendors selling local products. Enjoy a coffee, taste regionally produced food products, and grab a snack—the market has several dining options. The Ferry Building hosts a farmers market three times a week, and Ferry Plaza—behind the building—offers unparalleled views of the Bay Bridge and shoreline in the distance.
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- Ferry Building
- Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
- Exploratorium
- SoMa (South of Market)
- San Francisco Treasure Island
- James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27
- Transamerica Pyramid
- Embarcadero
- California Historical Society
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMoMA)
- Beat Museum
- Yerba Buena Gardens
- Oracle Park
- Vesuvio Cafe
- North Beach