San Francisco is a vibrant city with direct access to the water thanks to the San Francisco Bay. While boating and whale watching are popular activities in the area, exploring the nearby islands should also be on your list of things to do in San Francisco. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, each of these islands is unique, and there’s always something new to see. From protected wildlife sanctuaries and pristine beaches to eclectic cities and historic architecture, these are the nine best islands to visit in the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Treasure Island

Despite the name, Treasure Island isn’t actually a natural island. It was made by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1930s to host the Golden Gate International Exposition and envisioned to be San Francisco's second airport (it did actually host Pan American World Airways flying boats). Today, with over 400 acres to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Those who visit Treasure Island are privy to one of the best views of San Francisco, with the entire northern waterfront right in front of you. The island is known for its public art and festivals, which often draw San Franciscans on weekends. Those who love a unique imbibing experience can also try some of California’s best wines on Treasure Island.

From San Francisco, you can get to the island by car, bike or a quick ferry trip, which makes this an easy day trip. 

Angel Island

Those who are interested in American history will want to visit Angel Island, one of the largest islands in the San Francisco Bay. The island was once a processing station for immigrants making their way to the United States. Today, travelers can explore the Barracks Museum and Immigration Station Museum on the island. During World War I and World War II, the island was used as a military processing base, and in the 1950s as the Cold War was brewing it was the home of a missile base.

Now the island is an easy day trip from Tiburon via a short boat ride or San Francisco via a gorgeous ferry ride. It offers an abundance of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, beaches, camping and picnic areas. 

Alameda Island

Think bustling, vibrant town, not a secluded island. Alameda has a beautiful coastline to explore; for water sports like windsurfing and kite surfing, you’ll want to visit Crown Memorial State Beach. If the beach isn’t calling your name, maybe a cold glass of beer or some of the best food in the Bay is. The island has a variety of breweries, wineries and restaurants to visit, some of which have stunning water views from outdoor decks. Those looking for a unique activity to do while on the island will want to check out the Pacific Pinball Museum, which encourages visitors to become pinball wizards on vintage game machines.

The Brothers

In a strait that separates the San Francisco Bay from the San Pablo Bay sit the twin islands commonly known as The Brothers. While West Brother is not occupied due to its very small size, East Brother Island is open to visitors. On the island, you’ll find a Victorian-era lighthouse that dates back to 1873. The lighthouse also doubles as a charming bed and breakfast, where guests can enjoy stunning views of San Francisco, four-course dinners that include wine pairings, and expert hosts who can teach you about the history of the lighthouse and conservation efforts on the island. Reservations include a stunning boat trip, the only way to access the island.

Farallon Islands

About 30 miles west of the Golden Gate Bridge you’ll find the Farallon Islands. Though people aren’t allowed on the islands, you can take a wildlife tour to see the spectacular shoreline and animals, including whales and sharks which you have a good chance of seeing from May-November. Other animals you may be able to spot in the water include dolphins, sharks, and sea lions, while puffins and gulls can often be seen along the rocky shoreline. Note that getting to and from the island can be a daring journey as the waters are typically rough, but it'll be worth it once you get to the islands and see all the animals in an undisturbed habitat. 

Brooks Island

Brooks Island is known for its bird population; it is a nesting ground for almost 20 different species. While you need to make a reservation to set foot on the land, it’s worth the hassle to see many different animals. If you want to see the island from the water, naturalist-led kayak tours are available too. During the spring and summer months, the island is in full bloom with colorful wildflowers, which can vary in color from creamy white to vibrant fuchsia pink. 

Alcatraz Island

When most people think about San Francisco’s islands they immediately think of Alcatraz Island, where the penitentiary of the same name once held some of the most notorious criminals in U.S. history. (It was also a camping ground and hunting area for early Native American settlers who came to the Bay Area long before the Europeans.) Once you arrive at the Alcatraz dock for daytime tours, a National Park Ranger will greet you and give you a brief overview of the island and any special activities. Touring the island is self-guided, so you can take as long as you want in each space. Evening tours of Alcatraz are also available, and offer live narration on the ferry ride from San Francisco to the island. Once there, a guided tour takes visitors to the cell house, where cell door demonstrations and other activities take place. 

Belvedere Island

The affluent community of Belvedere is located on the island of the same name in San Francisco Bay, neighboring equally chic Tiburon. Those who are interested in architecture will enjoy roaming the streets of the island, where home styles range from beautiful Victorians to mid-century moderns. The San Francisco Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club on the West Coast, is located on the island, and hosts regattas from February through October.

Bair Island 

Bair Island is not just one, but three islands. Most of the land belongs to the Bair Island Ecological Reserve; because of that, there’s plenty of wildlife and natural beauty to observe along the tidal wetland. Fishing and hunting are allowed in the reserve, but you will need to comply with the fish and wildlife regulations. For spectacular views, take the four-mile round-trip out-and-back walk around Inner Bair Island. On the walk, you’ll also see some of the endangered species that call the island home. 

This story was edited by Hearst National Editor Kristina Moy; you can contact her at kristina.moy@hearst.com.