San Francisco Alcatraz Island Hotels

Top reasons to visit Alcatraz Island

• Historic Significance: Alcatraz Island is renowned for its infamous prison, offering a captivating glimpse into its storied past.
• Engaging Audio Tours: The immersive audio tours provide a vivid recounting of the island's history, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge from the island.
• Vibrant Arts Scene: Explore the island's unique arts scene, showcasing local creativity and culture.
• Proximity to San Francisco: A short ferry ride connects visitors to vibrant neighbourhoods filled with shops and cafes.

Find great hotels near Alcatraz Island

For those seeking a memorable stay near the iconic Alcatraz Island, a variety of accommodation options await. From charming hotels to upscale resorts, visitors can enjoy convenient access to local attractions, including shopping and family-friendly experiences. Various hotels, such as Abba Hotels and AC Hotels, offer diverse amenities tailored for business travellers and holidaymakers alike. Explore the perfect lodging that complements your journey to this historic landmark.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: A splendid 4-star hotel, Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is perfectly situated for those seeking a vibrant blend of business and leisure. Located merely 1.6km from Alcatraz Island, this property boasts direct access to the beach and is nestled within the bustling shopping district. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a fitness centre and a pool, making it ideal for both relaxation and recreation. The hotel’s contemporary design and welcoming atmosphere cater to travellers looking for an unforgettable coastal experience.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: This 3.5-star lodging is a welcoming haven for both business travellers and the LGBTQIA community, positioned 4.8km from Alcatraz Island. The Holiday Inn Golden Gateway offers modern amenities and a comfortable environment, making it suitable for those on a work trip or seeking a leisurely escape. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's fitness centre and on-site dining options. With its commitment to inclusivity, this hotel stands out as a progressive choice for contemporary travellers.
• The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: As a prestigious 4.5-star hotel located 4.8km from Alcatraz Island, The Westin St. Francis San Francisco offers a luxurious family-friendly experience. With amenities tailored for children, such as complimentary cribs and babysitting services, families can relax while knowing their little ones are well cared for. The property also welcomes pets, ensuring that furry companions can join in on the adventure. Elegant rooms and exceptional dining options further enhance the allure of this iconic hotel.

Where to stay near Alcatraz Island

Exploring Alcatraz Island offers a unique blend of vibrant urban life and stunning scenery. Just a short ferry ride from San Francisco, visitors can enjoy the rich history of the infamous prison while immersing themselves in the friendly atmosphere of nearby neighbourhoods. From the picturesque waterfront to the bustling streets filled with local cafes and shops, there’s an abundance of experiences waiting for every type of traveller.

• San Francisco: As a vibrant metropolis, San Francisco serves as the backdrop for your Alcatraz Island adventure. This iconic city is a year-round destination, with a peak in visitor numbers from July to September. Known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences, San Francisco offers a diverse array of activities. Explore its bustling shopping malls and educational venues, while local landmarks such as sports facilities and the picturesque bay beckon for your attention. The city's blend of urban charm and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit for any traveller.
• Fisherman's Wharf: Located just 1.6km from Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf is a lively neighbourhood that attracts visitors throughout the year. With peak tourist activity in April and from June to July, this area is perfect for family outings and business-themed trips. Wander through vibrant shopping centres and enjoy the waterfront views at the jetty pier. Notably, Fisherman's Wharf is home to various symbolic landmarks that capture the essence of San Francisco's maritime heritage, making it a delightful spot to explore and unwind.
• Union Square: Situated three miles from Alcatraz Island, Union Square is a bustling neighbourhood renowned for its shopping, theatre, and business opportunities. Visitor numbers peak in April and from June to July, making it a lively destination for families and professionals alike. The area boasts an array of shopping venues and entertainment options, while local landmarks such as sports facilities and event venues provide ample opportunities for exploration. Union Square's vibrant atmosphere and central location make it an ideal hub for your San Francisco experience.

Things to do near Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island offers a variety of activities for visitors, including adventurous hikes and engaging San Francisco tours. You can explore the island's fascinating arts scene and enjoy an audio tour that brings its history to life. Don't miss the stunning sunsets, and take time to indulge in shopping nearby for a complete experience of this iconic destination.

Shopping

In Alcatraz Island, explore Ghirardelli Square, a vibrant shopping mall just 1.6km away, offering a mix of business and entertainment. Union Street, located 3.2km away, presents family-friendly vibes. For a unique experience, Ark Row is 6.4km away, perfect for family and city shopping adventures.

Recreation

Oracle Park is a vibrant venue 6.4km from Alcatraz Island, offering exhilarating sports events amidst a lively atmosphere. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, located 4.8km away, provides a thrilling entertainment experience with captivating concerts. For a touch of luxury, the Pacific-Union Club, 3.2km distant, invites relaxation in an exclusive setting.

Adventure

Embark on an adventurous experience at the Perimeter Road, offering outdoor vibes with stunning views, located 3.2km from Alcatraz Island. For a unique winter delight, visit the Union Square Ice Rink, situated 4.8km away. Lastly, explore the Coastal Trail, a scenic hiking path 8.0km from the island.

Nightlife

A night on Alcatraz Island offers a unique ambiance, but for vibrant nightlife, venture to the nearby SHN Curran Theatre, Golden Gate Theatre, or Marines Memorial Theater. Each venue exudes romance, culture, and entertainment, perfect for an enchanting evening out in San Francisco.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Alcatraz Island

To save money on your visit to Alcatraz Island, consider travelling in February or November to December, when accommodation prices are lower. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and refine your search for eco-certified options. Additionally, save further by booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities. Look for amazing deals and vacation packages to maximise your savings while enjoying the island's attractions.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Alcatraz Island are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Alcatraz Island is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Alcatraz Island is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Alcatraz Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Alcatraz Island

When visiting Alcatraz Island, tourists can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks and museums that reflect the rich culture and history of the area. Ideal for families and those seeking a cultural experience, the island offers engaging points of interest that showcase its unique heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local charm.

• Pier 39: A vibrant destination, Pier 39 offers a delightful blend of urban charm and scenic views. Here, you can enjoy lively street performances, dine at waterfront restaurants, and observe playful sea lions basking in the sun, creating a friendly atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
• Golden Gate Bridge: An iconic symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge boasts stunning architecture and breathtaking views. This historic landmark, shrouded in fog, provides a unique cultural experience, where you can learn about its fascinating history while walking or cycling across its impressive span.
• Moscone Convention Center: A hub for innovation and business, Moscone Convention Center hosts various conferences and events. Its modern facilities and strategic location make it an essential spot for networking and exploring the latest trends in technology and industry.

Best time to go to Alcatraz Island

The best time to visit Alcatraz Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Alcatraz Island falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Alcatraz Island falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	56.1°F (13.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Alcatraz Island

Accessing Alcatraz Island is convenient via three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is approximately 24.1km away, with excellent hotel options nearby, such as the Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both offering Transfers and Shuttles. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is around 22.5km from Alcatraz, with nearby luxury accommodations like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, also providing easy airport access. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is located 67.6km away, featuring hotels such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, with nearby transportation options available. Each airport offers a variety of transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.