Angel Island — Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start with the big picture here. Angel Island is a state park in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. Hop on the ferry, which includes the cost of admission, to get here from Tiburon or San Francisco. Once you get off, it's a lush scene for the eyes. The island is loaded with native plants and animals, and has views of both San Francisco and Marin. At just 1.2 square miles, you can get around the whole park on foot or a rented bike in a few hours. But if you want to make it a weekend trip, reserve a campsite up to six months in advance. You can also visit the Angel Island Immigration Station as well as the Angel Island Immigration Museum (AIIM), which opened in 2022 inside the former hospital building. Any standout features or must-sees? There are guided hikes, or you can set out on your own. Newcomers might want to try the Perimeter Loop, a 5.5-mile trail open to hikers and bikers with fantastic views of the San Francisco Bay. For another killer view, go on foot up the Mt. Livermore trail. The historical island was once occupied by Coast Miwok inhabitants, and later it was used as a missile base: Check out the former US. Immigration Station, located about a mile and a half from the ferry station, which is now a museum where you can learn about the stories of some of the thousands of immigrants who came through the spot. Admission fees are low ($5 for adults, $3 for kids), and groups of five or more can reserve a guided tour in advance. In Ayala Cove near the ferry station are the Angel Island Café and the Angel Island Cantina. Both feature local food from San Francisco and Marin; the latter puts on "Angel Island Live," an outdoor music series sponsored by Lagunitas, from June through October. It features a variety of musicians who play from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Go in October, when the weather is almost guaranteed to be toasty. Was it easy to get around? Angel Island is a popular tourist spot, so you shouldn't have problems getting around. Those with mobility issues may consider renting an electric scooter or Segway upon arriving at the island. Tip: Visitors aren't allowed in certain sections of the park after dark so be aware of where you can and can't go if you'll be camping there. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? You can keep the trip short—just a ferry ride, a quick stop to see the views, and then split for home—or you can luxuriate there for a whole weekend. Budget travelers will love camping and hiking; those who don't mind splurging will have a great time on the guided tours and eating Hog Island oysters at the Cantina." - Lexi Pandell