In your opinion, is it better to visit Alcatraz first thing in the morning or during the afternoon? I am wary of not having to wait around in long queues - but also want to visit at the best time of day with good visibility.

I will be in SF in early September for three days.

Thanks

There are several threads on the board addressing this topic. Type in alcatraz in the search box and they should come up.

We went at night and loved it.

Deb

we went late morn/early afternoon...couldn't say I loved it..it spooked the hell out of me...

As long as you purchase your tickets in advance, the only queue you'll have to stand in will be the one to board the boat, which doesn't tend to start up more than 20 or so minutes before boarding, plus there's no real reason to be at the head of the line.

Some would say morning carries greater risk of fog, but then fog has been known to roll in in the afternoons, too, so there's no predicting that. I'd say go whenever suits you.

The night tour is very cool, too. I'd say go in the daytime for your visit, though; just IMO.

We were there this past May ... I believe the night tour to be the best (have done day tours previously). The night tour is more informative ... check out their website for details on the different tours. Line was no big deal ... we had a beer in the little restaurant nearby and waited for the line to die down before joining the herd....

I have done both and the night tour is creepier but the day tour gives you a better sense of the life there. I'd suggest the dinner cruise which doesn't stop on the island but goes around it. That was very nice.