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California Sunset Bike Tour
This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available
Pricing
Great for getting around the city
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Description
California Sunset Bike Tour over the Golden Gate Bridge
Most people cross the Golden Gate Bridge on its east side, with the bay and city skyline behind them. This tour takes a different path entirely. Departing in the late afternoon, the California Sunset Tour crosses on the west side of the bridge — the ocean side — which opens exclusively for cyclists in the afternoon. That means unobstructed views across the Pacific, the Marin headlands tumbling into the sea, and the Golden Gate Strait lit up by the descending California sun.
The route follows the same beloved waterfront path from Fisherman's Wharf through Crissy Field and past Fort Point, then up and over the bridge. On the other side, rather than descending into Sausalito, the tour takes "the road less traveled" — turning back through the Presidio and into some of San Francisco's most scenically dramatic terrain, past monuments and viewpoints that most visitors never find on their own.
At 12 miles (19.3 km) and up to 3 hours, the Sunset Tour is a natural complement to a morning Alcatraz visit or a full-day city itinerary — pairing beautifully with anything that keeps you on the eastern waterfront in the morning. Guides tailor the experience for history buffs and first-timers alike, with plenty of stops to take in views and hear the stories behind what you're seeing.
Both standard and electric (pedal-assist) bikes are available. E-bikes make the uphill sections effortless — highly recommended if you don't ride regularly.
Duration
- Up to 3 hours
- Tour departs at 4:00 PM (March – October) and 3:00 PM (November – February)
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to complete paperwork and get fitted to your bike
Location / Where to Meet
2661 Taylor Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 — located at Fisherman's Wharf between North Point and Beach Street.
Restrooms are available at the shop. There are multiple paid parking garages and metered street parking throughout the Fisherman's Wharf area; parking is not validated. The "F Market & Wharves" historic streetcar stops one block away at Taylor Street. The Powell/Mason Cable Car line stops at the second shop location at 501 Bay Street, one block away.
Ages & Requirements
- Suitable for all ages
- Children's equipment available including tag-alongs, child seats (front handlebar), bike trailers, and independent kids' bikes; staff will fit you at check-in
- Electric bikes available for ages 13 and older with parental consent
- Guests should be comfortable riding a bike independently
What's Included
- Professional knowledgeable tour guide for the full guided portion
- 12-mile (19.3 km) guided route from Fisherman's Wharf over the Golden Gate Bridge (west/ocean side) and back through the Presidio
- Bike (standard hybrid or e-bike upgrade option) with helmet, front handlebar bag, rear rack with bungee cords, bell, water bottle holder, and lock; bike lights provided during winter months
- Detailed route map
- Multiple photo stops along the route
Not Included
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Meals, drinks, or snacks
- Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your guide
What to Bring / Wear
- Comfortable, layered clothing — late afternoon on the bridge and the ocean side can be significantly cooler and windier than the city; layers are essential. Rear bike racks with bungee cords are included to stow extra layers
- Closed-toe shoes suitable for pedaling — sneakers or athletic shoes work well
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Small daypack or bag for personal items (the handlebar bag included with the bike holds a phone, map, and small essentials)
- Rain jacket or light poncho — tours run rain or shine; ponchos are available for purchase at the shop if needed
- Valid photo ID and a credit card for the rental deposit
California Sunset Bike Tour Route Map
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Bay City Bike
FAQs
Where does this tour go and what will I see?
The tour begins at Fisherman's Wharf and follows the waterfront through Crissy Field and past Fort Point to the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll cross on the west/ocean side of the bridge — which is open exclusively for cyclists in the afternoon — with views of the Pacific and the Marin headlands. On the other side, rather than descending into Sausalito, the tour turns back through the Presidio and past some of San Francisco's most dramatic scenic monuments before returning to the wharf.
How far is the tour and is it difficult?
The guided route is 12 miles (19.3 km). The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling along the waterfront, with the same uphill sections before the bridge as the morning tour. These are manageable for most casual riders and entirely effortless on an e-bike. The tour is rated beginner to intermediate and is suitable for all ages.
What's different about the west side of the bridge?
The east side of the bridge (facing the bay and city) is open to cyclists throughout the day and is the side most visitors use. The west side faces the Pacific Ocean and is open strictly in the afternoon. It's less crowded, the views are entirely different — open ocean, rocky coastline, the headlands — and in good weather the late afternoon light makes for some of the best photography of the entire bridge.
Will we be riding in the dark?
No — the tour is designed around the sunset, not after dark. During winter months, the last part of the ride may be in dusk conditions; bike lights are provided on all bikes during those months.
Do I need prior biking experience?
No prior experience is necessary, though guests should be comfortable riding a bike independently. If you haven't ridden in a while, the flat waterfront sections at the start are a great warm-up before you reach any inclines.
Will the tour run in the rain?
Yes — tours operate rain or shine unless there are dangerous weather conditions. San Francisco's famously moody weather rarely reaches the point of cancellation; if it does, you will be notified up to 30 minutes before departure. Ponchos are available for purchase at the shop.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation and No-Show Policy:
• Cancellations made 72 hours prior to reservation date & time are fully refunded. Cancellations within 72 hours of reserved date & time are charged in full, and considered non-refundable. No-shows are charged in full, and considered non-refundable. All Alcatraz packages are non-refundable once booked. Please refer to your Alcatraz confirmation for confirmation/cancellation details.
Changed Reservation Date Policy:
• If a reservation date is changed from its original date, the changed reservation disqualifies the above cancellation policy. The changed reservation date is charged in full, is considered non-refundable, and is charged in full.
Reservation Terms & Conditions:
• Reservation is valid for redemption for bikes/equipment/tours noted on this invoice receipt. It is not transferable, has no cash value, and may be redeemed only once.
Availability
There is no instant booking availability for this adventure. Drop us a line using the contact form below and we'll do our best to help you book this adventure or suggest some alternative options
Reviews
Location
Address
2661 Taylor Street
San Francisco, CA, 94133
US
ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT
This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available