Located just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Sausalito is a picturesque waterfront town that offers a unique blend of artistic charm, natural beauty, and a relaxed, yet sophisticated lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn by its vibrant community, coastal views, or proximity to city life, moving to Sausalito can be an exciting new chapter.
A Scenic Setting by the Bay
One of the first things that stands out about Sausalito is its stunning location along the northern shore of San Francisco Bay. The town is nestled between rolling hills and the water, offering jaw-dropping views of the bay, San Francisco skyline, and Mount Tamalpais. It’s a town where the scenery changes depending on where you stand—whether you’re gazing at yachts docked in the marina, wandering through hillside neighborhoods, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the waterfront promenade.
Living in Sausalito means being surrounded by natural beauty. Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area are just a stone’s throw away, offering endless hiking, biking, and outdoor opportunities. For those who appreciate water-based recreation, kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding are popular pastimes along the bay.
Unique Neighborhoods and Housing
Sausalito is known for its eclectic mix of neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary waterfront home or a cozy cottage perched on a hill, there’s something for everyone.
- Old Town Sausalito: With its Victorian-style homes and narrow, winding streets, Old Town Sausalito exudes historic charm. Many homes here are built into the hillside, offering spectacular views of the bay and San Francisco.
- New Town Sausalito: Located closer to the marina, this area is known for its waterfront condominiums, houseboats, and contemporary residences. It’s a bit more modern and accessible, yet still retains the laid-back vibe of Sausalito.
- Floating Homes: One of the most unique housing options in Sausalito is the floating homes community. These houseboats offer an alternative to traditional living and provide an intimate connection to the water. The floating homes community is vibrant, artistic, and diverse, making it a popular choice for those seeking a non-traditional lifestyle.
With its varied housing options, Sausalito has a reputation for being a desirable, yet high-end, place to live. Property values tend to reflect this, but the investment is often seen as worthwhile due to the prime location, community atmosphere, and unbeatable views.
A Vibrant Arts Scene
Sausalito has long been a haven for artists, writers, and creative types. Since the 1950s, the town has attracted a variety of artists and craftsmen who have helped shape its unique character. Art galleries and studios are throughout Sausalito, particularly along Bridgeway, the town’s main thoroughfare.
The Sausalito Art Festival is one of the town’s most notable cultural events, held annually over Labor Day weekend. It’s one of the country's oldest and most prestigious open-air art festivals, attracting artists and art lovers from all over the world. Beyond the festival, you’ll find an array of year-round artistic activities, including workshops, gallery tours, and public art installations.
Excellent Dining and Shopping
Sausalito’s waterfront location is prime for fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. The town’s culinary scene blends upscale restaurants, cozy cafes, and casual eateries, many with stunning bay views.
Popular restaurants include Scoma's of Sausalito, a long-established seafood restaurant right on the waterfront, and Barrel House Tavern, which offers contemporary American dishes with an unbeatable view. If you’re in the mood for a more casual bite, Fish. is a favorite for sustainable seafood, while Le Garage Bistro brings French-inspired cuisine to the waterfront.
Shopping in Sausalito is a blend of unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Bridgeway and Caledonia Street are the main shopping hubs, offering everything from locally made art to high-end fashion. Heath Ceramics is a must-visit, known for its beautifully handcrafted ceramic dishware, while The Marine Mammal Center gift shop offers marine-inspired gifts that support a good cause.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Sausalito’s natural surroundings make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From sailing on the bay to hiking in the nearby Marin Headlands, there are countless ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Hiking and Biking: The Marin Headlands, just minutes from downtown Sausalito, offer some of the best hiking trails in the Bay Area, with panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Pacific Ocean, and city skyline. The Rodeo Valley Trail and Coastal Trail are popular options. For cyclists, the ride across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco to Sausalito is iconic and something every new resident should experience.
Water Activities: Sausalito's proximity to the bay offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. Sailing is popular, with several local marinas offering boat rentals and sailing lessons. Kayaking and paddleboarding are common, allowing residents to explore the coastline from a unique vantage point.
A Commuter’s Dream
One of the great advantages of living in Sausalito is its proximity to San Francisco. While you can enjoy the quiet and beauty of a small town, the excitement of the city is just a short drive or ferry ride away. The Golden Gate Bridge connects Sausalito to San Francisco by car, making it an easy commute for those working in the city.
For a more scenic commute, the Sausalito Ferry provides regular service to San Francisco’s Ferry Building. This 30-minute trip offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area and is a stress-free way to travel between the two cities. The ferry is also popular with tourists, so it's a good idea to plan ahead during peak times.
A Strong Sense of Community
Despite its popularity with tourists, Sausalito retains a strong sense of community among its residents. The town hosts several community events throughout the year, including farmers' markets, outdoor concerts, and seasonal celebrations.
The local schools, including Willow Creek Academy and Bayside MLK Jr. Academy, are well-regarded, and the town is home to a variety of recreational programs for children and adults alike. With its small-town feel and strong community spirit, Sausalito is a place where you’ll quickly feel at home.
Conclusion: Making Sausalito Your New Home
Moving to Sausalito means embracing a lifestyle that balances nature's beauty with the Bay Area's cultural vibrancy. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning waterfront, the artistic community, or the endless outdoor opportunities, Sausalito offers a little something for everyone. It’s a town where life moves at a more relaxed pace, but with easy access to all the excitement the region has to offer.
If you’re considering a move to Sausalito, get ready for incredible views, a welcoming community, and a unique living experience that combines the best of coastal living with the perks of big-city proximity.
Ready to make your move to Sausalito or anywhere in the San Francisco and Marin areas? Trust
Nathalie Kemp and Bernadette Krystow, local real estate experts, to guide you every step of the way. With their deep knowledge of the market and personalized approach, Nathalie and Bernadette ensure that your home-buying or selling experience is seamless and successful. Start your journey today with the experts who know these unique communities inside and out. Visit
krystowandkemp.com to get started!
*Header photo courtesy of the Krystow and Kemp Team
