Tiburon: The Gateway to Angel Island

by DON AND ANN JACKSON


Whenever family and friends visit from out of town, one of our favorite things to do is drive them over the Golden Gate Bridge to Tiburon for a breathtaking lunch overlooking the San Francisco skyline across the bay. Tiburon is one of those special places to go for a great day trip and sightseeing excursion. We think it’s an even better destination for a two or three day getaway to unwind, since tranquility and stunning vistas reign.

In the early years, the community was a rowdy railroad town that serviced the supply barges to San Francisco before the bridges were built. Now it’s known as the quintessential chic community that’s become a realtor’s and homeowner’s dream—location, location, location. Some of the most expensive real estate and residences in California can be found here. Tiburon may not have a lot of dining options but the ones they have are first rate, and shopping may be minimalist but certainly adequate with a number of galleries and stylish boutiques. The town only has two hotels, but both The Waters Edge and The Lodge at Tiburon are delightful homes away from home, and both are exceptional properties.

To Do:

A paramount feature of Tiburon is that it’s the closest point to Angel Island (Alcatraz is a close second), and definitely one of Northern California’s tourism gems. For the best access and schedules, take the Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry (www.angelislandferry.com), a family-owned ferry service currently operated by the third generation with special charter boats available for rent as well. It’s only a ten minute boat ride to experience the serenity, incomparable panoramic views, and historic significance of this nearby island. How about this for a varied history before it became a State Park: Miwok Indian hunting grounds, Civil War outpost, POW camp during World War I, immigration intake station (think Ellis Island West), and Nike missile base in the 50’s.

Eight miles of bike trails, over 13 miles of hiking trails, and picturesque picnic and camping locations add up to an outdoor aficionado’s dream. A visit to the recent multi-million dollar renovation of the island’s immigration center is alone worth the short trip. For you non-walkers or hikers there’s also a tram tour of the island and a shuttle to the immigration area leaving from the dock area during the busy seasons. Check out www.angelisland.com for tram tour and shuttle schedules, bike rental info, café hours, activities, camping availability, and more.

To Stay:

During our most recent visit, we opted for the Waters Edge Hotel (www.watersedgehotel.com), uniquely located on a pier, and featuring daytime and night light vistas of San Francisco and closeness to the best restaurants and shops. Tastefully decorated rooms with fireplaces, complimentary parking, continental breakfasts, and evening wine and snack hour are other major plusses.

The Lodge at Tiburon (www.lodgeattiburon.com), a stylish Craftsman remodel, doesn’t have direct water and city of San Francisco views, but none the less offers numerous advantages. It has an on-site restaurant, the Tiburon Grill, plus a swimming pool, spa, and a rooftop terrace with firepit. Both hotels provide fireplaces in their lobby areas simply meant for soaking up the stress-free environment next to those inviting warm hearths.

To Dine:

Restaurants we recommend include Sam’s Anchor Cafe (www.samscafe.com), a Tiburon institution serving fresh seafood since 1920, and known for its always-bustling patio during warm weather months; Caprice (www.thecaprice.com), a perfect choice for that special occasion upscale dining experience; and Guaymas (www.guaymasrestaurant.com), offering an extensive variety of Mexican dishes. All three of these choices are along the water and offer stunning San Francisco views as well as consistently good food. Rooney’s is another stand-out, with the same chef-owner since 1972, and although not on the water remains a locals favorite and ours as well.

For all things Tiburon, events, activities, restaurant promotions, and more, visit the Chamber of Commerce web site at www.tiburonchamber.org.