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Can I take a backpack to Alcatraz?

Backpacks and Luggage Bags larger than a standard backpack, 16 x 20, are not allowed on Alcatraz Island. Over-sized packs and luggage are not permitted.



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Beyond the dock only bottled water in non-glass bottles is allowed to be consumed. Please refrain from feeding the birds on Alcatraz - as tempting as it may be (the birds will beg and even try to snatch food out of your hands) human food is NOT good for them.

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Ferries leave from Pier 33 just south of Fisherman's Wharf. Your ticket is timed and you can only take that ferry to Alcatraz. Arrive no less than 20 to 30 minutes before the time on your ticket. Bring as little as possible as there are no storage lockers.

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Are backpacks or luggage allowed on Alcatraz Island? Bags larger than a standard backpack, 16 x 20, are not allowed on Alcatraz Island. Small packs and bags are permitted. Each visitor is required to go through extensive security prior to boarding the ferry to Alcatraz.

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Yes, can take pictures everywhere within Alcatraz. There are no restrictions on taking photographs as long as you are in an area open to the public. Make sure to look out the windows because you can get some great photos of places on the island that are not open to the public.

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The weather on Alcatraz is unpredictable and liable to change unexpectedly, so be prepared by bringing along a light jacket or sweater no matter how nice the day starts out.

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The roads and walkways on Alcatraz are steep. The distance from the dock to the Cellhouse is approximately 1/4 mile (. 4km) and the elevation change is 130 feet (40 meters), the equivalent of walking up a 13-story building.

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The Early Bird tickets are best since you are the first group on the island. I also like getting there as early as possible because then you can participate in some talks on the island. These usually start around 11 a.m. with the final ones in the early afternoon.

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Loud talking, whistling, shouting, singing, and other unnecessary noises are not permitted.

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Cell phone coverage exists throughout most of Alcatraz. Please always use handrails that are provided. Steps can be slippery due to weather conditions and moisture. Please do not leave visible items in your vehicle, regardless of where you are parking.

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The Alcatraz Landing Cafe is set up as a place for people to get a fast meal at the Pier 33 Ferry Terminal before boarding a ferry for Alcatraz, although sandwiches are sold on the ferries as well. You can also buy bottled water here.

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Are there bathrooms on Alcatraz? There are bathrooms on most of the ferries on the way over and back. There are also restrooms in two locations on the island. One is right near the ferry terminal.

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Public WiFi is not available. WiFi is not available at this GGNRA park site. Cellular reception is very limited on Alcatraz Island.

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It's easy to imagine Alcatraz in a world without tourists, and that's why it remains San Francisco's greatest tourist trap.

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Still, swimming from Alcatraz is no joke. Some of the key challenges include: Rough and choppy water. Cold water temperatures which can be 10 degrees or lower than in other parts of the East Bay.

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Identification. Photo I.D. is required when purchasing and picking up tickets. Photo I.D. is required to board the ferry. Photo I.D. is not required for all in your party, but only for those who purchased tickets.

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Every year, there are a total of 18 overnight stays available on Alcatraz, and a staggering number of 200 to 400 groups compete for the opportunity to secure one of these spots.

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Private events on Alcatraz must be conducted in areas that are historically appropriate; for example, entertainment activities are not allowed in the main cell block areas. Receptions with catering are not allowed on island.

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