Bike the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito
The most popular cycling route in San Francisco: rent a bike near Fisherman's Wharf, ride 8 miles across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, and catch the ferry back — a 3–4 hour loop costing $30–50 for a bike rental plus $14.75 for the return ferry. The ride across the bridge itself is flat and takes just 10–15 minutes, with jaw-dropping views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the Pacific.
The Route: Fisherman's Wharf to Sausalito
Start at Fisherman's Wharf
Pick up your rental bike. Most shops are on Jefferson Street or Columbus Avenue. They provide helmets, locks, and route maps. Head west along the waterfront path.
Ride Through the Marina & Crissy Field
A flat, scenic 3-mile warm-up along the waterfront. Pass the Palace of Fine Arts, then follow the paved path along Crissy Field with the bridge growing larger ahead.
Climb to the Bridge
The only hill on the route — a moderate 0.5-mile climb from Crissy Field up to the bridge's south access point. E-bikes make this effortless.
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge
1.7 miles, 10–15 minutes. Stay on the designated sidewalk (west on weekends, east on weekday mornings). Speed limit is 15 mph. Stop at the mid-span for photos.
Descend to Sausalito
Exit the bridge on the Marin side and follow Alexander Avenue downhill. The 2-mile descent is mostly downhill with sweeping bay views. Follow signs to downtown Sausalito.
Explore Sausalito & Ferry Home
Lock your bike and enjoy waterfront restaurants, galleries, and the Bay Model Visitor Center. Catch the Golden Gate Ferry from the Sausalito Ferry Terminal to the SF Ferry Building (30 min, bikes ride free).
Bike Rental Options
| Type | Price Range | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Bike | $30–40/half-day | Most riders | Hybrid bikes with gears. Comfortable for the flat route + one hill. |
| E-Bike | $50–75/half-day | Hills, headwinds, less effort | Makes the climb to the bridge effortless. Great for windy days. |
| Tandem Bike | $50–70/half-day | Couples, families | Fun but harder to maneuver on the bridge sidewalk. Book ahead. |
| Kids' Bike / Trailer | $15–30 add-on | Families with children | Tag-alongs and trailers available. Check age/weight limits. |
Popular rental shops near Fisherman's Wharf include Blazing Saddles, Bay City Bike, and Unlimited Biking. All include helmets, locks, and maps. Most accept walk-ins but booking online can save 10–15%.
Tips for Biking the Golden Gate Bridge
Wind Warning
Afternoon headwinds on the bridge can be brutal — 20–35 mph gusts are common. Ride in the morning for calmer conditions. E-bikes help significantly on windy days. Dress in layers; it's always colder on the bridge than in the city.
Ferry Schedule
Golden Gate Ferry runs from Sausalito to San Francisco every 30–60 minutes. Last ferry is typically around 7:30 PM on weekdays, earlier on weekends. Check the schedule before you go. Bikes ride free on the ferry. Buy tickets at the terminal or on the Golden Gate Ferry app.
Best Time to Ride
Weekday mornings (9–11 AM)are ideal — less bridge traffic, lighter winds, and fog is usually clearing. Weekends are busier on the bridge sidewalk. September–October offer the best weather for the ride.
Fog Check
The ride is still enjoyable in fog — but you'll miss the views. Check our fog forecast to find a clear window. If fogged in, wait until late morning when conditions typically improve.