Just past the northern tip of the Golden Gate Bridge, the bayside city of Sausalito boasts colorful homes, a dynamic arts scene, and heart-stopping views of the San Francisco skyline. Once a factory town that built ships during World War II, Sausalito has cultivated a creative community where artists and artisans show and sell their work in the town’s galleries, shops, and art spaces.

Only 20 minutes from downtown San Francisco and some of the best mountain biking in Marin County, Sausalito sits on the shores of Richardson Bay and has a laid-back vibe all its own. Cafes and coffee shops fuel passing cyclists while local seafood restaurants make the most of their waterfront views. Sausalito is also a convenient base for exploring the nearby Napa and Sonoma wine regions. And within an hour’s drive, you can also reach such heavyweight California attractions as Muir Woods and Point Reyes National Seashore.

No matter the season, Sausalito sees its fair share of wind from onshore breezes, and fog is a way of life in this bayside town, although it tends to burn off in the late morning before returning later in the afternoon. The best time to plan your trip is between September and October when there is less fog and the temperatures are more pleasant. Winters can be rainy and extra windy but with pockets of beautiful, warm weather. It’s always a smart idea to pack layers when planning a trip to the San Francisco Bay Area as temperatures tend to fluctuate throughout the day, even during the summer months, where it can still experience cool temperatures in the evening.

Muir Woods National Monument

Just 20 minutes away on a scenic winding road, you’ll find Muir Woods National Monument, the only old-growth coastal redwood forest in the San Francisco Bay Area, and one of the last remaining ones in the world. You’ll find various loop trails of varying lengths in addition to trails extending to Mount Tamalpais State Park. The deeply shaded forest is home to black-tailed deer, Sonoma chipmunks, northern spotted owls, and coho salmon — a federally protected species.

Sausalito Shipyard & Marina

Visit Sausalito’s historic waterfront to learn about the area’s maritime history and culture. You’ll discover old wooden shipyards that produced nearly 100 Liberty Ships during WWII and the iconic floating docks on Richardson Bay that are home to a thriving houseboat community. A self-guided tour beginning on the Bridgeway Promenade takes you along a one-mile stretch with six stops featuring placards and photos that will guide you through the waterfront’s history.

Golden Gate Bridge

Drive to the Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point to take in magnificent overlooks from its northern end. Along the way, stop off at the Bay Area Discovery Museum, with various interactive exhibitions on local landmarks suitable for all ages, and Lime Point Historic Lighthouse, which once served as a guiding light for sailors navigating their way through the fog.