Anchorages on San Francisco Bay

Anchorages on San Francisco Bay

Aquatic Park
This cove is located near Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. It is crescent-shaped and provides a scenic and sheltered anchorage. The sandy bottom allows for good holding. It offers stunning views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Space is limited, and a permit from the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is required. Expect occasional wakes from ferries and vessels in the area.

Belvedere Cove
Situated on the Tiburon Peninsula, this charming anchorage provides protection from winds. It also has a muddy bottom that ensures reliable holding. The surrounding area features lush hills and luxury homes, with beautiful views of Angel Island and the San Francisco skyline.

Central Basin
South of Mission Bay, this anchorage offers calm waters with a muddy bottom. It is more practical than scenic. It serves as a convenient stopping point. It offers moderate protection and easy access to city amenities.

China Basin
Located near Oracle Park, this anchorage is perfect for visiting Mission Bay’s attractions or catching a Giants game. The area provides moderate protection but is affected by strong tidal currents and occasional wakes.

China Cove
Nestled on Angel Island’s southeastern side, this tranquil cove is surrounded by natural beauty and turquoise waters. It offers protection from most winds and is perfect for exploring the island’s hiking trails. Caution is needed when anchoring due to steep drop-offs.

Clipper Cove
Situated between Treasure Island and Yerba Buena Island, Clipper Cove is one of the bay’s safest anchorages. It features deep, calm waters and a sandy bottom, with scenic views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco skyline.

Downtown Sausalito Anchorage
This anchorage along Sausalito’s vibrant waterfront offers great views of San Francisco. It provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, and cafes. Holding is good in mud, but the area can get crowded, and regulation enforcement is common.

East Garrison
A small, quiet anchorage is located on Angel Island’s eastern shore. East Garrison offers shallow waters. This makes it ideal for smaller boats. Visitors can enjoy nearby hiking trails and historical landmarks.

Horseshoe Cove
Horseshoe Cove is located near Fort Baker and just east of the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers stunning views of the iconic bridge. The cove is well-protected. The anchorage has a sandy bottom and is ideal for a peaceful evening, though occasional wakes may occur.

Paradise Cove
East of the Tiburon Peninsula, this anchorage features calm waters, a sandy bottom, and beautiful vistas. It’s a favorite for daytime picnics, but northerly winds can make overnight stays challenging.

Point Stuart Anchorage
Located north of Angel Island, this peaceful anchorage offers good holding and a serene environment. It’s a great spot for kayaking or enjoying solitude, especially for day visits or short overnight stays in mild weather.

Quarry Beach
Quarry Beach is a shallow anchorage on Angel Island’s east side. It features a sandy bottom and easy access to the beach. It’s ideal for daytime picnics and exploring the island, though it’s exposed to winds and less suitable for overnight stays.

Richardson Bay Anchorage
Northwest of Sausalito, this expansive anchorage is popular with liveaboards and transient boaters. It features stunning views of the hills and San Francisco skyline, though holding can vary with muddy and grassy bottoms.