Tips to visit Alcatraz Island: Practical advice

Planning your visit to Alcatraz Island? Follow these helpful tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a second adventure, these tips will guide you every step of the way.

Tip 1: You must buy your tickets well in advance

Booking your Alcatraz tour tickets ahead of time is essential. Tickets often sell out 3-6 weeks in advance, particularly during peak months from April to October.

To ensure you get a spot, it’s best to book at least a month ahead. This will not only guarantee you entry but also help you plan your day better. Buy Tickets Now

Tip 2: Do the self-guided audio tour

The audio tour is included in your ferry ticket and is a highlight of the Alcatraz experience. 

Narrated by former guards and inmates, it takes about an hour and makes the history of the prison feel incredibly real and engaging. 

As you walk through key areas like the cellhouse, solitary confinement, and the mess hall, you’ll hear fascinating stories that bring the island’s past to life. 

It’s like having the former inhabitants as your guides, making it an unforgettable journey through history. Don’t miss it!

Tip 3: Book a guided tour for extra insights

While the audio tour is fantastic, if you’re really keen on delving deeper into Alcatraz’s history, the behind the scenes guided tour might be a great option. 

The guides are very knowledgeable and share history and anecdotes, taking you to areas not accessible on the self-guided tour.

Tip 4: Consider the night tour for a unique experience

For a more intimate and slightly eerie experience, Alcatraz’s night tour is a fantastic choice. 

A particularly memorable part of the night tour is when they demonstrate the closure of cell doors at 8.30 pm – it’s said to be quite chilling.

These tours often include areas that aren’t open during the day, like the infirmary. 

You might also get to experience special programs with more in-depth stories about prison life and escape attempts. 

The best part is that night tours are usually less crowded, creating a more personal atmosphere.

Tip 5: Know where and when your Alcatraz journey begins

When you book your tickets you will select a specific time to go to the Alcatraz island. Make sure you arrive at Pier 33 at least 20 to 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time. 

Ferries usually run every 30 minutes and the ride itself takes about 15 minutes. 

On your way back to the mainland, you can hop on any available ferry. 

Just be sure to check the return schedule once you arrive on the island so you can plan your time accordingly.

Insider tip: If you want the best views of Alcatraz Island, sit on the left side of the ferry on the top deck.

Tip 6: Dress for the island weather

Alcatraz can be surprisingly windy and chilly, even on a sunny day. Our top tip is to dress in layers. While you might start off warm in the city, it can feel much colder once you’re on the island.

Even on cooler days, the sun reflecting off the bay can be quite strong, so be sure to bring sunglasses and apply sunscreen to protect yourself.

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential, as you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking. The terrain can be steep and uneven, with gravel paths and stairs, so make sure you’re prepared for the walk!

Warning: Leave those heels at home!

Tip 7: Be prepared for the steep walk

Just a heads up, the walk from the ferry dock up to the main cellhouse is steep—a ¼-mile (0.4 kms) uphill climb with a 130-foot elevation change (equal to a 13-story building).

But the roads and walkways are wide with several places to stop and rest.

The S.E.A.T. (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) Tram is available to assist visitors with mobility needs. The Tram runs every half hour.

Tip 8: Be prepared for potential rain

The weather in San Francisco can be unpredictable, and Alcatraz is no exception. 

Especially during winter and early spring, rain is more common. 

Since many of the walking routes on the island have no shelter, consider bringing waterproof gear and an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Tip 9: Pack your food for Alcatraz, but follow the eating rules

When visiting Alcatraz Island, you can only eat and drink in the designated picnic areas near the dock. 

Since there are limited food and drink options available on the ferry, it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and water.

There are water fountains on the island to refill your water bottle. 

Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the island, and are only available for purchase on the return boat ride.

Only standard-sized backpacks (around 16” x 20”) are allowed on the island. Luggage, oversized bags, and coolers are not permitted. Security will check all bags, and you won’t be allowed to board if you have larger items.

Tip 10: Make sure you have your photo ID

Every person booking tickets needs to have a government-issued photo ID. 

You’ll need it whether you’re picking up tickets or boarding the ferry. 

Photocopies of passports are usually accepted, but it’s best to keep your actual passport close by.

Tip 11: Once you land, take a photo of the ferry return schedule

As soon as you get off the ferry on Alcatraz, take a quick picture of the return ferry schedule. 

This way, you’ll know exactly when the boats are leaving and can plan your exploration of the island without having to rush or worry about missing your ride back.

A visit to Alcatraz, including the ferry ride to and from the island and your time exploring, usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Tip 12: Consider grabbing a guidebook

Right after you step off the ferry, you’ll see a stand with guidebooks for just a dollar. 

We highly recommend picking one up as it can help you navigate around the island and give you extra information about the buildings you see.

The main restrooms on Alcatraz are located near the ferry landing area. While there are some additional restrooms on the island, they are limited.

Tip 13: Explore the island beyond the main cellhouse

Once you finish the Cell House audio tour, don’t just head back to the ferry! Take some time to explore the rest of Alcatraz Island. 

You can see the remains of the Warden’s house, the first lighthouse on the West Coast, beautiful gardens maintained by volunteers, and get stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. 

A map will help you to learn about the stories behind these other buildings as they aren’t all covered in the audio tour.

Tip 14: Keep an eye out for special programs and exhibits

Throughout the day, park rangers and interpretive staff often host various programs. 

These might include walking tours, cell door demonstrations, or talks about the prison’s history in the cafeteria. 

There are also exhibits, like the one in the New Industries Building about the Native American occupation. 

Check the announcement boards when you arrive to see what’s happening during your visit. Talking to the rangers can also give you some interesting information.

Tip 15: Be careful if you’re visiting with kids

Always supervise children closely on the island, at Pier 33, and on the ferries.

Remember that minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is 21 or older. 

Also, children under 12 are not allowed on the Behind-the-Scenes Tour if you consider that option.