Every Friday and Saturday evening from now through October, the Angel Island Ferry moonlights as a homegrown cruiser and offers the best sunset picnic on the bay. Weekend Sherpa first highlighted this little-known excursion in the fall of 2007; this year, take part in the fun (and sun) all summer long. Bring a home-packed meal and your favorite companions, and get on board for a floating feast where you're more likely to find locals than tourists. After departing Tiburon at 6:30 p.m., you'll head west toward Sausalito and Richardson Bay for a 90-minute treat. This excursion is rarely overcrowded, and you're allowed to bring grown-up beverages (martinis can be shaken and stirred at sea). Sip your drink of choice and sniff the cool, salty air as the hues on the horizon change and the lights in the city shine. You can eat, drink and be merry inside the ferry—but we recommend the stellar 360-degree views from the upstairs deck. That's our idea of a moveable feast!
TIP: Couldn't put together a picnic before you jumped in the car? Grab food supplies in Tiburon at the Boardwalk Market or Bell Markets—both on Tiburon Blvd. on the way into town.
The season runs until Oct. 18. Prices are $20 per adult, or buy a block of 15 for $200. For reservations, call 415-435-2131 or click here. For more information on this trip or other tips on how to get active on San Francisco Bay, check out Weekend Sherpa.
