Angel Island State Park050

Grab your bikes and hop the ferry to Angel Island, which is 749 acres around and even bigger on views. Seeing the island from a bike enables you to tour the island in a little more than an hour.

You can also hoof it on any number of hiking trails. Bring a picnic or pick up a sandwich from the Cove Cafe that's open daily during the summer (limited hours November-April 415.897.0715) and take advantage of the many picnic tables.

A special feature is the open-air tram ride, open daily through November. You hear a brief tour of island history as you drive past an ancient Miwok settlement (the Marin-based Indians hunted and fished here for 6,000 years), an 1863 Civil War Union Camp, Ft. McDowell a WWI & WWII military base, a WWII prisoner-of-war camp, and Chinese and Japanese immigration stations.

Segway tours now available daily May-November.

Biking: The island has 5 miles of paved roadway for biking and you can also ride the Fire Road, which encircles the island. Bike rentals available Daily May-November. Bring your bike aboard the ferry for an additional $1.

Hiking: You can take the Northridge or Sunset trail to the top of Mount Livermore for great views; or the Perimeter road down to the beaches. Docent-led tours are offered year round; Reservations are required. Call 415.435.3522 for information.

Kayaking: You can see the island by two-person kayak if you call Sea Trek (415.488.1000). Children of any age can participate and the trip to Angel Island, which is about 3.5 miles long, is considered good for first-timers.

Camping is permitted For reservations go to www.reserveamerica.com. Wood fires are not permitted; bring charcoal for barbecues. Full service catering is available if you want to throw a big family party (925.426.3058). No dogs, skateboards, or inline skates allowed.