How to Secure Tickets for the Alcatraz Island Tour

Located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area near San Francisco, Alcatraz Island is one of the most iconic attractions in the United States. It is part of the country's extensive network of national parks, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Tickets for the Alcatraz tour are released 90 days in advance and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your spot, it's advisable to purchase tickets as early as possible.

There are two main ways to buy Alcatraz tour tickets:

Single Alcatraz admission tickets

Combo tour packages including Alcatraz and other attractions

Deciding between these options can be tricky. Single tickets grant access solely to Alcatraz Island, whereas combo packages include additional tours and activities in San Francisco and nearby destinations.

The primary provider for Alcatraz tickets is Alcatraz Cruises, which is the official operator for ferry services to the island.

Tickets can be purchased through three methods:

Online via their official website

By phone

In person at the ticket office

It's recommended to avoid overpaying by purchasing through third-party vendors, who often mark up prices significantly. These companies typically do not offer discounts and charge higher fees for convenience.

Many other companies resell Alcatraz tickets at inflated prices, often without the ability to select preferred dates or times. They usually buy the tickets on your behalf after charging extra, and you risk losing access to digital tickets or facing long wait times for voucher exchange.

Buying directly from Alcatraz Cruises ensures authenticity, lower prices, and the ability to download e-tickets. You can simply print your ticket and board without necessary queues, making your experience smoother.

Alcatraz Cruises also supplies tickets to authorized tour operators who bundle Alcatraz visits with other sightseeing experiences, offering convenient package options.

Opting for a package not only simplifies booking but can also include attractive deals, especially if you plan to visit other landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge or Sausalito.

Popular combined packages include:

Alcatraz & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
A 2-day tour that covers major San Francisco sights along with Alcatraz. Costs around $139.99, with a discount expected if booked online.

Alcatraz & City Tour
Includes a tour of San Francisco’s highlights, Golden Gate Bridge stops, and optional photo breaks, with lunch and hotel pickups included. Price approximately $120.

Alcatraz & Bay Sailing Experience
Combines visiting Alcatraz with a relaxing bay cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge for about $97.65.

In summary, securing Alcatraz tickets requires early planning. Purchasing directly from the official website offers the best value and convenience, while combined tour packages provide a comprehensive experience of San Francisco’s attractions.