This Charming Town Is Known as ‘California’s Italian Riviera’—With Bay Views, Quirky Houseboats, and Mediterranean Vibes
Driving north across the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll quickly notice a collection of colorful houses stretching uphill, standing out from stands of trees as the sleek skyscrapers of San Francisco fall away behind you. Though you’d be forgiven for assuming that you’re just in another suburb of S.F., you’re actually looking at one of the Bay Area’s most charming small towns—there’s a good reason why Sausalito is known as “California’s Italian Riviera.”
Summer in Sausalito 2026
Summer in Sausalito 2026
Summer in Sausalito is alive with sparkling bay views, waterfront dining, boutique shopping, local art, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable community events. Stroll Bridgeway, Princess Street, and Caledonia Street, enjoy fresh flavors by the water, explore the Marin Headlands, or get out on the bay by ferry, kayak, paddleboard, sailboat, or scenic cruise. With Jazz and Blues by the Bay, Art & Harbor Days, and the Sunday Farmers Market in Dunphy Park, Sausalito is the place to relax, explore, and stay awhile. Read more!
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Experience Luxury
A 10 minute drive from San Francisco is Sausalito and a 40 minute drive to Wine Country. You’ll discover amazing views of San Francisco, amazing hiking and biking trails from the Marin Headlands to Muir Woods. Sausalito is known for its luxe accommodations, acclaimed chefs at farm-to-table restaurants, and art galleries. Don’t forget about all the on-the-water experiences. Sausalito is the ideal destination for sailing and kayaking around the San Francisco Bay. At the end of each day, whether you you were out on the water or hiking in the trails, slip into your luxe accommodations at the Casa Madrona, Inn Above Tide and Cavallo Point Lodge. Are you looking at wedding locations in Sausalito? We have you covered there too.
Sausalito brings together stunning views, small-town charm and plenty of opportunities to dine and shop. Visitors and residents agree with Coastal Living’s ranking of Sausalito as the third-happiest seaside town in the country. After all, Sausalito offers world-class dining, artists, boutiques and so much more. Whether you come here to live, work or play, you’ll love all that Sausalito has to offer.
Explore the Charm of Sausalito with KTVU’s ZipTrips
Join KTVU for a journey to one of the Bay Area’s most picturesque destinations—Sausalito.
SAUSALITO…
In Two Hours or Two Days!
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- Walk south along Bridgeway from the center of town for scenic photographs fresh air and exercise. Take in all the sights and sounds – the seals frolicking in the bay (including the famous sealion statue) and the SF skyline as well as the Mediterranean hillside above the waterfront. Go as far Swede’s Beach via the wooden boardwalk and the legendary Sally Stanford’s former establishment on the southern most corner.
- Walk back to town and browse through the art galleries and boutiques, including the hidden alley on Princess Street, Princess Court
SAUSALITO…
In Two Hours or Two Days!
- Walk south along Bridgeway from the center of town for scenic photographs fresh air and exercise. Take in all the sights and sounds – the seals frolicking in the bay (including the famous sealion statue) and the SF skyline as well as the Mediterranean hillside above the waterfront. Go as far Swede’s Beach via the wooden boardwalk and the legendary Sally Stanford’s former establishment on the southern most corner.
- Walk back to town and browse through the art galleries and boutiques, including the hidden alley on Princess Street, Princess Court