Photo by: Marcel Marchon

In the middle of San Francisco Bay, just a mere 10-minute ferry ride from Tiburon, sits Angel Island State Park, a wonderful natural resource offering recreation and adventure, spectacular views, scenic beauty and a rich history.

The Island’s beauty is captivating and enhanced further by the beauty that surrounds it: 360-degree views of the entire San Francisco Bay, including the San Francisco skyline, Marin County, Mt. Tam, the East Bay and all five Bay Area bridges. The best way to enjoy the views is from the top of Mt. Livermore, the Island’s highest peak. Starting at Ayala Cove, where the ferry disembarks, you have a few options for climbing the 781 feet to the top of Mt. Livermore, as the island is navigated by 13 miles of foot trails and fire roads. While it may sound daunting, the trek to the top only takes about 2.5 hours and the diverse terrain leads you through shaded woody areas and along coastal trails that let you take in the panoramic views. You also may encounter deer and other wildlife along the way. About halfway up, depending on your route, there’s a nice bench where you can rehydrate and look across the bay at Tiburon, Belvedere, Sausalito and the Golden Gate. Once you reach your destination, there are several picnic benches where you can enjoy lunch or a snack before working your way back down. But don’t leave before going to the platform on the top and spinning in a circle to take it all in.

Of course there are many other ways to enjoy the Island’s 740 acres. You can walk or bike the perimeter, take a tram or Segway tour, rent a kayak and glide around the Island, picnic, or beachcomb the secluded and sheltered shores. Not to mention, in an only-in-California way, just relaxing at the oyster bar with live music. How many state parks can boast that? And for those who don’t want to leave at the end of the day, there are nine campsites available for overnights. 

 Photo by M@

Because of its strategic location, Angel Island has seen many inhabitants and visitors over the years, from Coastal Miwok Indians to Chinese Immigrants to World War II POWs, making it a popular destination for history buffs and school fieldtrips. Several tours highlight the history of the island and the stories behind the historical sites, including the United States Immigration Station.

What a treat to have one of California’s most beautiful parks just a ferry ride away.

To learn more about Angel Island, check out their blog, flickr gallery and Facebook page.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors