Date(s) of Visit: November 7th, 2024; November 18th – 20th, 2024
Sausalito, California, is one of those places that just pulls you in. It’s got that perfect mix of laid-back coastal charm, jaw-dropping views, and just enough quirkiness to make you want to stay a little longer. I rolled through for a single night on my way up the coast toward the Pacific Northwest, and by the time I was heading back down, I knew I had to stop again. This time, I stayed for three nights—and honestly, I could have stayed even longer.
Crossing the Golden Gate & First Impressions
Like most people’s first visit, mine started right after driving the incredible Golden Gate Bridge for the first time—this time in my van, Stan. That drive is an experience in itself, but pulling into Vista Point immediately afterward made it even better. This rest area just past the bridge has a lively energy, with street vendors selling food and coffee right from their carts—or even from the back of a Honda Element like in the photo I snapped.
Vista Point is more than just a rest stop; it’s a prime place to take in the Golden Gate Bridge and even catch a glimpse of the Bay Bridge in the distance. You can walk under the bridge to the other side or, if you’re feeling ambitious, walk the entire 1.7 miles of the bridge and back. I walked out to the halfway point, and let me tell you, the views from up there are unreal.
Vanlife-Friendly Perks & Free Overnight Parking
One of the biggest wins about staying in Sausalito? Free overnight parking. City Parking Lot #3 became my go-to spot. After 10 PM, it’s completely free, making it an easy and stress-free place to park up for the night. I wasn’t the only one taking advantage of it—there were a few other vanlifers there, including one ridiculously massive rig that I ended up spotting in multiple places afterward.
Pro tip… there’s a city restroom right next to the lot. If you’ve been on the road for any length of time, you know how clutch that is. Between the parking and the facilities, it felt like Sausalito had an unspoken welcome sign out for vanlifers.
Golden Mornings & Scenic Vanlife Moments
The catch with Lot #3 is that you’ve got to move your vehicle by 7 AM, but honestly, that was more of a blessing than an inconvenience. Every morning, I woke up to the most unreal sunrises over the bay. Watching the soft light hit the Bay Bridge while the water shimmered below? Worth every bit of that early start. I spent time during the day parked at the Golden Gate Bridge Scenic Spot and the Golden Gate View Point, where I made my breakfast sandwich while taking in a front-row view of the bridge. As I enjoyed my meal, I worked on an electrical project in my rig—one of those small but satisfying vanlife moments where the location turns a regular task into something special.
Exploring Sausalito: A Small Town with Big Character
Sausalito is small, but it packs a lot into its waterfront streets. Walking through the boardwalk area, I couldn’t get over how some of the restaurants were practically built on top of the water. The whole place has this cozy, small-town feel, but with a dash of upscale flair. It’s charming, inviting, and just the right amount of lively without feeling overwhelming.
I also took time to explore the beautiful houseboat community docked in Sausalito. The floating homes are colorful, unique, and have an artsy, bohemian vibe that makes them stand out from any other waterfront town. Another cool perk? Ferries run from Sausalito to San Francisco and other locations, offering a scenic way to get around the Bay Area without having to drive.
Breathtaking Views from Battery Spencer
One of my favorite stops was Battery Spencer. Perched on the cliffs, it offers one of the most dramatic views of the Golden Gate Bridge—almost like you’re floating above it. From up there, you get that classic, postcard-perfect shot of the bridge with the city skyline behind it.
Another unforgettable part of my drive? Heading north through the Robin Williams Tunnel with its signature rainbow painting. It’s a small detail, but it’s one of those things that makes the drive feel even more special.
Good Vibes & Great Live Music
I made a couple of stops at local bars that had an awesome, no-frills vibe. Smitty’s Bar was the kind of spot where you can just kick back, have a drink, and blend right in. Then there’s The No Name Bar, which had some seriously good live music. It’s one of those places where you walk in not knowing what to expect, and by the end of the night, you’re glad you went.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Stop for Vanlifers
Sausalito won me over, plain and simple. Between the free overnight parking, clean public restrooms, stunning bay views, and that laid-back atmosphere, it’s an easy spot to recommend for anyone living on the road. Whether you’re just passing through or looking for a place to slow down and soak it all in, Sausalito delivers.
If you’re rolling through the Bay Area, do yourself a favor—make a stop here. You just might find yourself staying longer than you planned.
Leave a Reply