Basic Information

 

Welcome to Alcatraz Island!

Alcatraz is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which is one of more than 400 national park units across the country. Plan on spending a couple of hours on the island. Take in scenic views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. Consider participating in a Junior Ranger program.

Here are the basics:

• Purchasing Tickets is highly recommend in advance. The sole concessionaire contracted with the National Park Service to sell tickets is Alcatraz City Cruises LLC. You can purchase your tickets through them online at Alcatraz City Cruises or call [phone].
• Weather on Alcatraz is unpredictable and liable to change unexpectedly. Always bring layers and wear comfortable, close-toed walking shoes.
• Eating and smoking is restricted to one area near the dock. In order to protect our sensitive seabird populations, consuming food or tobacco products is prohibited in all other areas of the island.
• Parking is not available at Alcatraz Landing. Commercial parking lots are available nearby, but it is recommended to use public transportation if you can. Visit Transit.511.org for more information on getting to Pier 33.
• Accessible features are available both at Pier 33 as well as on the island. Accessible parking at Pier 33 is limited, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon arrival at Alcatraz, you will find an accessible tram (S.E.A.T), which transports visitors with mobility impairments the Main Prison entrance.

 

Physical Address

Alcatraz Island
San Francisco Bay, CA 94133

Directions

The Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located on The Embarcadero near the intersection of Bay Street at Pier 33.

Directions Details

Weather

The climate on Alcatraz is unpredictable and can change suddenly. Cold, foggy mornings may give way to sunny afternoons, which in turn can shift quickly back to more fog and blustery winds. The most pleasant weather usually occurs in spring and fall. Summers tend to be cool and foggy, winter is our rainy season. Temperatures on Alcatraz seldom rise above 75°F (24°C) or fall below 38°

Weather Details

Fees & Passes

Entrance Fee-free

This site is fee-free year-round. No entrance fee or pass is required.

Parking/Transportation

Parking, shuttle, or other transportation-related fees may apply.

More about parking/transportation fees

Visitor Centers

Dock Ranger Station

The ranger station at the Alcatraz Island Dock is staffed at all times. Staff here can help you with directions, information, Special Ranger and Junior Ranger programs, emergency assistance, and more.

• Sunday and Monday:9:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Tuesday-Saturday:9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Just off the ferry from San Francisco, the Dock Ranger Station is where you can get information about Alcatraz Island.

Closures & Seasonal Exceptions

Holidays

2025–2026

New Year's Day	January 1, 2026	Closed
Thanksgiving Day	November 27, 2025	Closed
Christmas Day	December 25, 2025	Closed
Holiday	Date	Hours

Internet & Cellular Access

Public WiFi is not available.

WiFi is not available at this GGNRA park site. Cellular reception is very limited on Alcatraz Island.

Internet & Cellular Access Details