Local Attractions
When it comes to location, Cavallo Point is truly blessed in more ways than one. In addition to the spectacular natural beauty of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and the myriad Outdoor Adventures made possible by our setting, we are fortunate to count as our neighbors some of the most popular visitor attractions in California. Close to everything, but away from it all, Cavallo Point is the perfect base camp for exploring the very best the Bay Area has to offer.
Alcatraz Island
This infamous island in the middle of San Francisco Bay reveals complex histories of American justice, incarceration, and the struggle for Native American civil rights. And on a clear day, it’s worth a visit simply for the ferry ride and panoramic bay views.
There is no admission fee for Alcatraz itself, but you must purchase tickets on the official ferry service which runs to/from Pier 33 in San Francisco. Ferry tickets often sell out in advance, especially on holidays and during the summer months. Our concierge Marianne Wong can help you plan your visit; contact her at 1-415-339-4719 or [email protected].
Muir Woods National Monument
Immerse yourself in dense, primeval forests of coastal redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument. One of the most popular tourist destinations in California, Muir Woods is 10 miles (about a 25-minute drive) from Cavallo Point.
Planning a visit can be complicated — it is crucial to make parking or shuttle reservations in advance, especially during the summer months. And while it’s possible to get there using Lyft/Uber, there is no cell service at the park, so a return ride must be arranged in advance. Never fear! Our concierge Marianne Wong can assist with all the details; contact her at 1-415-339-4719 or [email protected].
Golden Gate Park
At over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park stretches for 3 miles from the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to Ocean Beach, and offers many gardens, playgrounds, and other attractions to explore.
Highlights include the California Academy of Sciences, one of the largest and most innovative natural history museums in the world, as well as the DeYoung Museum, showcasing American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, and offering breathtaking 360-degree views from the ninth-floor of the Hamon Tower.
Other popular destinations include the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, San Francisco Botanical Garden, National Aids Memorial Grove, the lovingly restored Carousel in the Koret Children’s Quarter, and the newly installed ferris wheel.
Golden Gate Park is 6 miles from Cavallo Point. To cover ground more quickly within the park, try a Segway tour or rent a bicycle. There are 10 lakes within the park to enjoy a picnic break. Spreckels Lake is designed for model yachts or remote controlled boats to cruise the pool, and offers pleasant benches and lawns to enjoy a respite from your day.
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Featuring creative outdoor and indoor activities for children ages 6 months to 10 years old, the Bay Area Discovery Museum engages, delights, and educates through connections with the local environment and the diverse communities that live here. Programs include hands-on art, science, and environmental exhibits, as well as spring and summer camps, performances, special events, and cultural festivals — all with a focus on fun!
Located in Fort Baker, the museum is just a short walk from Cavallo Point. Receive discounted admission when you book our Discovery Museum package.
Marine Mammal Center
Visit the world’s largest marine mammal hospital to see animal care experts providing life-saving care to injured animals so they can be released back to the wild. In addition to visiting patients such as seals, sea lions, dolphins, whales, and sea otters, the newly renovated visitor center offers interactive exhibits that provide a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to rescue hundreds of marine mammals every year.
Located in the Marin Headlands, the Marine Mammal Center is 4 miles from Cavallo Point and can be reached via our shuttle service to Rodeo Beach (Wednesday - Sunday at 12 noon). Admission is free, but advance reservations are required.
