9 Best Muir Woods Tours from San Francisco For a Day Trip Among Giants

LOOKING FOR AMAZING MUIR WOODS TOURS FROM SAN FRANCISCO?

As busy of a city as San Francisco is, the city serves as a stepping stone to nature, filled with impressive oceanside scenery and tall redwood trees. Having dated an SF local, I’ve traveled many times through the hills of Chinatown, to hikes in the Bay area, and the peaceful paths of Muir Woods.

The impressively tall redwoods and the quiet is always a nice relief from city sounds. However, the amount of tours available might be a bit much for first-time explorers, especially when you can tack on other trips to Napa or Alcatraz Island.

Just want to pick the best? This is my top choice. Reserve this trip to Muir Woods and Wine Country with over 3000+ great reviews.

Here are the top 9 Muir Woods tours from San Francisco – all guided by locals and carefully reviewed by us with all sorts of cool add-ons.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Muir Woods Tours from San Francisco

#1 Top Pick

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Muir Woods & Wine Country

✔️ Award-Winning Experience

✔️ 3 wineries in Napa & Sonoma

✔️ Optional Gourmet Lunch

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#2 Pick

Alcatraz Tour Plus Muir Woods and Sausalito

✔️ Combo Alcatraz with Muir Woods

✔️ Transport & All Fees Included

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#3 Pick

Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour

✔️ Longer Stay in Muir Woods

✔️ Transport & All Fees Included

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Top Muir Woods Day Trip from San Francisco

1. Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ Optional Gourmet Lunch

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  10 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Get ready to explore Northern California’s beauty with this tour of Muir Woods and Wine Country. First, you’ll visit Muir Woods National Monument, home to some of the world’s tallest redwoods. These incredible trees will definitely impress you and set a peaceful, outdoorsy tone for your day.

Next, it’s time for some wine. You’ll visit the famous wineries of Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Here, you’ll taste local wines at three different wineries – a great way to spend the afternoon after a morning in the forest.

Don’t forget to snap a picture at the Golden Gate Bridge, and take some time to chill out at the historic Sonoma Plaza. If you’re feeling fancy, upgrade to the gourmet lunch.

2. Alcatraz Tour Plus Muir Woods and Sausalito Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  7.5 Hours | 😍 Book it!

This Alcatraz combo trip is a real treat, taking you from the busy streets of San Francisco to the serene Muir Woods, the quaint town of Sausalito, and even the infamous Alcatraz. I loved the history of Alcatraz, and I personally think it is one of the most worthwhile places to see in San Francisco.

From the famous Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll get a great view of the bay and the city skyline. Once you hit Muir Woods, you’ll get 90 minutes to be amazed by the coastal redwoods – some of the tallest trees on Earth.

Afterward, head to Sausalito, a charming seaside town known for its trendy boutiques, top-notch restaurants, and beautiful bay views. You’ll have an hour to relax here before continuing on to Alcatraz.

At Alcatraz, see the notorious prison up close, including a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island and an engaging audio-guided walking tour of the ‘Cell Block.’

This package includes a narrated bus of up to 35 people, transport by a comfortable air-conditioned coach, a professional driver guide, free Wi-Fi on the tour vehicle, and admission to the national monument and Alcatraz.

3. Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  5 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Set out on a memorable journey through coastal forests and the artistic town of Sausalito with this half-day tour from San Francisco. This excursion is affordable, and really just focuses on the main attraction.

The trip starts with crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, before your main stop at Muir Woods, a sanctuary to some of Earth’s oldest and tallest trees. You’ll have plenty of time to roam among these giant redwood sequoias here.

This outing includes a 4-hour itinerary, a professional tour guide, transport via a luxury air-conditioned coach, and entrance tickets. To make your day even more special, you can return to San Francisco by ferry or add a 4-hour bike rental in the city.

4. Small Group Tour w/ Optional Alcatraz

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  9 Hours | 😍 Book it!

This fun-packed itinerary is very similar to the ones above, but what sets it apart is this tour is just for small groups – up to 20 people – so you won’t feel as crowded or rushed.

You’ll hear cool stories about SF’s top neighborhoods before setting out for a 75-minute wander around Muir Woods. In the cute seaside town of Sausalito, sit down for lunch, shop around, and check out the sights.

If you choose the Alcatraz add-on, get ready for an afternoon ferry ride and a tour of the famous island prison. If not, you’ll get dropped back at Fisherman’s Wharf.

This tour package includes live commentary on board from a local guide. If you choose it, it also comes with the Alcatraz ticket and ferry ride. They keep the groups small, so It’s like hanging out with a group of friends – but with way cooler stories!

5. Small Group Redwoods, California Coast & Sausalito Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  10 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Get ready to check out San Francisco’s North Bay on this well-planned small group tour for up to 15.

Kick things off among redwood trees before heading up the coast to Stinson Beach. Here, you can take a slow walk, feel the sand between your toes, and just breathe in that fresh ocean air.

After the beach, it’s time for lunch in the town of Stinson and some killer views of the city from the Marin Headlands before winding down with a stop in Sausalito. You even have the option to take the ferry back for a bit of extra fun.

6. San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  4 Hours | 😍 Book it!

This is the best option if you’re really just looking for a straightforward shuttle tour to Muir Woods from San Francisco. This four-hour trip begins at Fisherman’s Wharf and provides direct round-trip shuttle service. It’s also pretty cheap.

On your way, you’ll cross the famous Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy cool views like Pier 39’s sea lions, the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, and the Fort Point National Historic Site.

Your package can accommodate up to 25 travelers. So, sit back, relax, and don’t worry about transportation – no need for ferries, rental cars, or Ubers.

7. Muir Woods, Sausalito and Tiburon Day Trip from San Francisco

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  4 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Check out Northern California’s outdoor highlights with this private tour from San Francisco.

Unlike other tours that only stop at Sausalito, you’ll also get taken to Tiburon. Both towns have a great mix of waterfront restaurants, small shops, and art galleries, which is a nice change of pace after being in nature all morning.

The best part? You get to call the shots on this tour. Spend your time however you want, whether that’s hanging out with 1,200-year-old trees, checking out Tiburon, or having lunch by the bay in Sausalito.

Your package includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or the airport, snacks, bottled water, and a private driver/guide. With space for up to six people, you can be sure this will be a personal experience.

8. 3-Hour Private Muir Giant Redwoods Trees and Sausalito Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  3 Hours | 😍 Book it!

This private redwoods tour is a great option if you’re looking for a short day trip for just you and the fam and friends. Muir Woods is not all that far from San Francisco, but you’ll save about two hours that you might have spent looking for parking or waiting in line at the visitor center.

You’re free to wander around the trails on your own. Once you’ve had your fill of nature, drive over to the seaside town of Sausalito.

But remember, getting there is half the fun. You’ll ride in a cool convertible Jeep, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, and stop for some photo ops. And if it’s a bit foggy, they’ve got warm blankets.

This tour package includes round-trip transfers and if time allows, a stop at Muir Beach to check out the Pacific Ocean coastline with space for up to six guests. After Sausalito, you can choose to take a scenic ferry ride back or continue riding in the Jeep.

9. Custom Muir Woods and Napa Wine Tour From San Francisco

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  8 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Sample some Napa Valley wines with this private full-day tour for up to 6. First, we’ll visit some tall redwoods at the John Muir National Historic Site Redwood Park. Then, it’s off to Napa Valley and Sonoma – two top spots for wine fans. You’ll have four hours to check out a bunch of different wineries.

This trip is all about making your trip exactly how you want it. Want a group picture with the Golden Gate Bridge behind you? No problem! Need help picking the best spot for lunch or dinner? Your tour includes detailed itinerary planning, including a chat before your trip to make sure everything is just right.

Muir Woods Travel Guide and FAQ

What is so special about Muir Woods?

Muir Woods is special due to its ancient groves of towering redwood trees, diverse wildlife, and scenic views. It’s also the first National Monument created because of an individual’s land donation.

Is it worth going to Muir Woods?

If you don’t have plans to go further north to Redwood National Park, it is worth going to Muir Woods. These trees are incredibly impressive, especially if you’ve never seen them before.

Are there giant redwoods in Muir Woods?

Indeed, there are giant redwoods in Muir Woods. These trees, known for their fragrant red bark and towering heights, average 600 to 800 years old and reach up to 250 feet high.

Is Muir Woods tour worth it?

A Muir Woods tour is worth it if you value guided experiences, want to avoid dealing with the logistics of organizing transportation, and want to visit more attractions in a short timeframe.

How much time should I spend in Muir Woods?

The time you spend in Muir Woods depends on your interest level. However, you can comfortably explore the main areas in a few hours.

What is the best time of year to visit Muir Woods?

Some may prefer Muir Woods in the quiet winter months, while others might enjoy the busy summer season. The weather would be much more pleasant and sunny from April to October.

How to get Muir Woods from San Francisco?

To get to Muir Woods from San Francisco, you can drive, use a shuttle service, or take a guided tour. The route offers scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County.

Final Thoughts: Best Muir Woods Tours from San Fran

A Muir Woods day trip from San Francisco is undeniably one of the best San Francisco things you can do. Get out of the city, into the woods, and along the seaside. Whenever I’m around the redwoods, they never cease to impress; the game is always to try to find the largest ones.

In case you’re still not sure which to pick:

• Go on a wine tasting too; book this combo Wine country excursion.
• Tack on the were prison tour; join this Alcatraz combo trip.
• Focus on the national monument; sign up for this affordable half-day Muir Woods Trip.

And, if you’d really like to get into the heart of these towering giants, keep heading north with my day trip to Redwood National Park guide or my San Francisco itinerary if you’re looking for other things to do.