Super Secret Place – March 4, 2008

As part of my secret places in San Francisco series, I wanted to highlight one of the best, yet most obvious secret places in San Francisco; looming behind Alcatraz lives Angel Island, a historical slab of land smack dab in the middle of the bay between San Francisco and Sausalito. Angel Island now serves as a state park, but was once shelter to Indians, a military base for the Spanish, a Chinese Camp, an immigration station, and home to U.S. Nike missile silos.

It’s passed hands many a times, which has resulted in many unique derelict structures and buildings, deserted beaches, secret tunnels, and perhaps a hint of radioactivity (don’t worry, I haven’t grown a sixth finger yet).

The best part about Angel Island is that there are camping sites available, which all have incredible views of the surrounding landscape. You’ve got to book months in advance, but it is well worth it. If you do secure a spot, the only method of transportation to the island is by way of boat. We took the Blue and Gold ferry from Pier 41, but if you’ve got your own ride you’re welcome to take that. The obstacle of getting to the island is fantastic because it keeps most people away, which means you practically have the whole island to yourself.

Here are some pics from my latest trip out there, plus a video of Ross and I throwing knives. That’s right, throwing knives…because we’re cool like that.