Welcome to Sausalito
Bayfront Beauty Meets Bohemian Soul
Sausalito sits just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, offering a scenic coastal retreat steeped in rich maritime history. Once a Miwok settlement and later a hub for fishing and shipping, Sausalito rose to prominence during World War II as the site of Marinship, a major U.S. Navy shipyard. After the war, the town attracted an eclectic wave of artists, musicians, and writers, many of whom took up residence in Sausalito’s now-iconic floating home community. That creative spirit still permeates the town today.
What to Love
- Expansive Bay and skyline views of San Francisco
- Unique housing options: from hillside estates to historic Victorians and houseboats
- A tight-knit, walkable downtown with coastal charm
- Easy commute to San Francisco via ferry, bike, or car
- Rich arts scene, public art, and local galleries
- A harbor town with Mediterranean vibes and fog-free weather
Lifestyle and Architecture
Sausalito is a magnet for folks seeking laid-back luxury with a splash of bohemia. The lifestyle is slow-paced but cosmopolitan—think waterfront brunch, gallery-hopping, and sunset sails.
Architecturally, Sausalito is delightfully diverse featuring historic Victorians tucked into leafy hillsides; modernist glass homes with panoramic views; floating homes that blend engineering, design, and whimsy; Spanish and Mediterranean-style villas with terraced gardens; and, charming bungalows and beach cottages near downtown.
Sausalito real estate is as eclectic as the people who live here—each property tells a story, and many are one-of-a-kind.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Sausalito’s waterfront dining and boutique shopping scene offers a rich experience for both locals and visitors:
- Barrel House Tavern – Upscale New American cuisine with Bay-facing patio views
- Poggio Trattoria – A beloved Italian restaurant with fresh pasta, just steps from the ferry terminal
- Cibo Rustico – A stylish café and espresso bar with artisan pastries and outdoor seating
- Copita– Brightly decorated modern Mexican restaurant focusing on seasonally driven fare & tequila drinks.
- Galerie Elektra and Peterson Gallery – Showcasing regional and international artists
- Real Napa Wine Tasting Room – For a taste of Wine Country without leaving the coast
From boutique fashion to fine art and coastal cuisine, downtown Sausalito offers curated luxury with a laid-back twist.
Things to Do
Whether you're into the outdoors, art, or just soaking in the views, Sausalito is packed with coastal activities:
- Tour the Sausalito Houseboat Community – A local landmark with funky architecture and rich history
- Explore the Bay by kayak or paddleboard from Sea Trek or Schoonmaker Point Marina
- Bike or walk the Mill Valley–Sausalito Path, a scenic route through the wetlands and over the Bay
- Take the Golden Gate Ferry to San Francisco for a no-traffic commute or day trip
- Visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum for family-friendly fun beneath the bridge
- Hike or picnic in nearby Marin Headlands, Tennessee Valley, or Fort Baker
Schools
Sausalito is served by the Sausalito Marin City School District, and while local public options are limited, nearby top-rated schools make the area appealing to families:
- Dr MLK (grades K-8)
- Willow Creek Academy (K–8, charter school)
- Tamalpais High School (Mill Valley, grades 9–12) – Highly ranked and just a short drive away
- Local private schools include The New Village School and Lycee Francais de San Francisco’s Marin Campus
Interested in living in Sausalito? Whether you're drawn to waterfront luxury, historic charm, or modern hillside elegance, Sausalito real estate offers a truly unique lifestyle. Let Ethan and Nadine help you discover the perfect home in this artistic and awe-inspiring Bay Area gem.
