By Marjorie Magazine
A piece of the Mediterranean looms on the shores of the San Francisco Bay. North of the the Golden Gate Bridge lies a picturesque destination that was once a fishing village for the Bay Area, a gem of Marin called Sausalito. With waterfront views, hillside homes tucked neatly among the dark green canopy that occasionally dances with the marine layer fog on a chilly day, and endless shopping and dining to inspire your senses, you’re swept into a fantasy of a fifties travel destination– fancy yourself to be Grace Kelley cruising down the coastline into the village with the top down and you’re basically en route to Monaco or Capri.
For those still clinging to thoughts of an endless summer, September in the Bay is perhaps the most ideal time to get swept up in the charms of this city as Indian summers set the tone for the beginnings of fall in the Bay Area. And should you find yourselves on the shores of Sausalito, we’ve been more than happy to recommend you our favorite spots and activities to enjoy while traveling here– and time as well.
As a special courtesy to readers, please note the current (9/20) COVID-19 public health guidelines as you plan your visit to Sausalito located in Marin County, California. Read below through our guide for specific orders pertaining to each location/activity.
Getting There
Traveling to Sausalito is best enjoyed by ferry from San Francisco or the East Bay, but please visit Golden Gate Ferry for reduced services and altered schedules & maps. Weekend ferries around the Bay Area are temporarily suspended.
If you are driving from San Francisco, you’ll be in luck to know that the only way to Sausalito is by the way of the Golden Gate Bridge! There couldn’t be a more scenic route.
Sights to See
Masks are required in public.
Start your strolls along the waterfront path for bicyclists and pedestrians on the main thoroughfare, Bridgeway Street, looking straight out into the skyline of San Francisco in the hazy horizon.
Cool down and sit under the shades of trees that surround the opulent and elegant stone fountain adorned by elephants in Vina del Mar Park.
The Floating Taj Mahal Boat House awaits you at the end of the Sausalito Yacht Harbor. A miniature version of its majestic counterpart, it remains mostly a private residence with incredible views of Richardson Bay.
Seemingly secret stairs lie along Bridgeway Street between shops, leading up to the stunning homes nestled away in the hills that look over the rest of the town. Walking along these quiet residential streets are a delight for the soul and the senses, as each home carries its share of unique charm with flourishing gardens behind picket fences or tall canopies that cover the neighborhood in a mystical shade.
Five & Dime
Masks are required in public.
Pop into the eclectic Sausalito Ferry Co. filled with novelty souvenirs and an array of unique pop culture collectibles, from the modern trendy Funk Pop dolls to Belgian’s classic adventurer, Tintin.
Various little galleries are hidden along Princess Street, so be sure to duck into an unsuspecting alleyway where you might find your next inspiring artwork!
Boasting of delicate yet classic styles in florals and smock, 2 Bella Boutique sits in a candy-colored Victorian storefront and awaits to give you a vintage makeover fit for any occasion around town.
Lastly, become inspired by seafaring adventures and more when you head to Sausalito Books by the Bay, located at the end of the Yacht Harbor.
Dining by the Water
Outdoor dining is currently allowed. Please check ahead of time with restaurants of interest for altered business hours and if possible, reservations are highly recommended.
It wouldn’t be right to be in a coastal town without dining out on the water! At Scoma’s with their iconic blue and white restaurant right on a private dock, you’ll be sure to enjoy waterfront views all around, not to mention exceptional and fresh seafood dishes, from their spin on Oysters Rockefeller to a hearty serving of Cioppino or seared scallops. With outdoor dining in full effect, a memorable time is absolutely guaranteed, and best enjoyed with a few cocktails on the side to sip as you await your grand finale of a meal.
Classic resort town snacking takes the cake (cone) with a scoop of ice cream from this local favorite. Boasting of 260 flavors, the Praline Pecan or Ube Macapuno are our picks to try when you stop in!
We’re convinced the best Blueberry Bread Pudding resides behind the glass in this classic cafe setting right along Bridgeway (our Editor Paris fondly remembers eating the bread pudding as young as eight years old!). Other fresh Mediterranean dishes complete the mood for a light lunch or afternoon coffee along the water, and its Sausalito as its most classic (and European!).
Stay Awhile
Per recent updates, local hotels and lodgings are again open for leisure traveling guests. Please contact lodgings of interests to know what special measures they are taking in their facilities to ensure everyone’s safety.
Our one true recommendation for an unforgettable stay in Sausalito is simply within the Gables Inn, located on Princess Street less than minutes away from the center of town. The first hotel in Sausalito that opened in 1869, Gables Inn offers fifteen rooms varying in beautiful features from private balconies to fireplaces and even views of the bay. Our personal favorite is the Cedar Room, perfectly private and memorable for waking up to the sounds of morning fog horns and enjoying in-room coffee out onto the private patio shrouded in a lush glory tree.
In a time where getting out and away from the uncertainties of a year like now seems like only a dream, we hope that you’ll find time to travel down to the secret treasure of a town like Sausalito. Europe may be out of reach, but just like time traveling, Sausalito will seem to magically make it happen for you to feel like it’s just in your backyard.
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