ALCATRAZ TOURS

Found this online as a recommended attraction. Easy booking process. Many tour option times to choose from but I’m sure they sell out. I reserved a week before my trip so I got the time slot I preferred. Be sure to select Pier 33 Alcatraz Tours if using ride share service. We arrived as recommended 45 minutes ahead of our tour. We were probably behind 35 people already in line but hundreds came behind us. This place gets packed so be prepared and if u prefer to wear masks near strangers and in closed quarters, be sure to bring it. The boat ride over is nice, maybe 10 minutes. Takes longer getting everyone loaded and unloaded. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board but not allowed in certain areas so be prepared. Very interesting stories of the history of the Rock. Glad we went. Definitely recommend going. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for lots of walking especially up inclines unless you use the tram which has limited seating. Great pic opportunities to the San Francisco city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Highly recommend doing the night tour. It gives a good vibe that goes with Alcatraz. Night tour sells out fast so have to book tickets couple of weeks or even months before. Get to the dock at least 30 min before departure. Fog covered the whole island during our tour which made it a cool experience. A good sunset is promised but it is totally based on the weather. Guides are knowledgeable and there’s a good audio tour for cells. They give you audio devices (sanitized) so no need to worry about bringing headphones.
Make sure to stay for events after the cell tour. You get to see the cells without the crowd. Bring a good jacket to protect yourself from cold specially during the night tour.

Wow this was great and super easy to buy tickets online. Buy in advance or you might miss your chance to see it. I purchased tickets about a month out. Finding the ferry was so easy, we even ended up getting on an earlier boat. They recommend you show up a45 min prior to your ferry time. Do it that’s how we went early. The ferry was quick and they had a great orientation talk upon arrival. They have a tram for those that cannot walk up the hill to get the the cell house. But if you can take the walk. So much to see. There were plenty of bathrooms throughout the tour and we loved going at our own pace. Highly recommend this tour and the company.

Overall this was a great way to experience Alcatraz. From the moment we got on the boat, to the moment we returned from the island, it was fun and educational. The tour boat itself that shuttles passengers to the island is solar powered, which is pleasant to know it’s operating with less of a carbon footprint. On the way to the island, there’s amazing indescribable views all around the San Francisco bay area. When you get to the island, it's great that you can venture around the island at your own pace. At first it was a little strange to be offered hand held devices for the self tour, but after getting into the tour, it actually was convenient to be able to explore at our own pace. The tour was very informative and interesting when learning more about the island's history. Before the tour, I didn’t realize there was more tied to the island other than the history of the prison. If you’re into history and exploring landmarks, this is an excellent place to visit. The costs were reasonable and the staff were very helpful. If there were ever any questions, there’s always someone nearby to help. This is a great experience for families and friends. When we arrived, we got an creepy feeling from the island. It was somewhat spooky and unsettling to be on the island, as it should be. Exploring the prison sells and different parts of the prison, it gave a feeling that’s worth discovering on your own volition. Definitely recommend experiencing this tour.

Great experience. Boat ride was fun and a perfect opportunity to see the Golden Gate bridge and Bay bridge from the water. The self guided tour is very nice, easy to use. Our 10 and 8 year old even enjoyed the history of the island. Everything was clean and all the staff was friendly.
Be cautious: Our car was broken into while parked near the piers. It happens even during the day. Do not leave any valuables in your car while it is parked in San Francisco