Host an Event

Host an Event on Angel Island State Park

Plan your next wedding, corporate retreat, or special celebration surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of San Francisco Bay. Angel Island State Park offers a variety of scenic venues, from open lawns and historic parade grounds to quiet beaches and waterfront views, all just a short ferry ride from San Francisco or Tiburon.

Contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov for more information.

Event Types

Angel Island State Park welcomes a variety of permitted events, including:

  • Weddings and elopements
  • Corporate meetings and retreats
  • Community events and fundraisers
  • Educational programs
  • Outdoor activities and athletic events

       Additional uses may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Each event requires coordination with park staff to ensure protection of park resources and a positive experience for all visitors. Events that are not in line with the mission of California State Parks will not be accepted.

The mission of California State Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by preserving the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. 

Available Event Locations

Angel Island State Park offers several beautiful and historic venues. Each site has its own character and capacity for events of all sizes.

  • Camp Reynolds – A historic military site with waterfront views of the Golden Gate Bridge and open space. Use of the Bakehouse, Quartermasters Building and Quarters 10 are available at an additional cost. 
  • Quarry Beach – A quiet sandy beach near Fort McDowell.
  • East Garrison Chapel – Historic chapel within Fort McDowell facing the East Bay.
  • East Garrison Picnic Area – Expansive grassy area with Bay views; accommodates large events. Available through Reserve CA at https://www.reservecalifornia.com
  • Picnic Areas – Multiple reservable group sites with tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms, including ADA accessible sites. Available through Reserve CA at https://www.reservecalifornia.com
  • Other Locations – Additional sites may be available depending on event type and park conditions.

Angel Island Immigration Museum (AIIM) Room Reservation

The Angel Island Immigration Museum is a renovated historic hospital of the U.S. Immigration Station which now showcases contemporary exhibits and has available rooms to reserve for compatible events. Out of respect for the sensitive history of the immigration site, some activities are considered incompatible and will not be accepted for the permit request. This includes, but is not limited to, most weddings and birthday celebrations. In general, company meetings and retreats, galas, and school group activities are welcome. However, all events are subject to review.

Contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov for more information about reserving a room at the Angel Island Immigration Museum.

For more information regarding the museum and the exhibits: https://www.aiisf.org/aiimexhibit

Permits and Fees

All special events require a Special Event Permit issued by California State Parks. Fees vary depending on the event’s size, staffing needs, and chosen site. Special Event Permits must be submitted at least 30 days prior to your event date, or subject to a late filing fee. 

If you plan to serve alcohol at your event, an Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) permit may be required depending on how alcohol is provided and whether it is sold. If alcohol beverages are to be consumed, insurance is required. Please contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov for guidance on whether your event needs an ABC permit and to learn more about the process. All ABC permits for Angel Island State Park events are handled by the ABC Santa Rosa District Office.

Insurance

Depending on the nature and size of your event, Angel Island State Park may require general liability insurance, with the State of California listed as additional insured. This helps protect both the event organizer and the park, ensuring the safety of all guests and compliance with State Parks guidelines.

Our team will help you determine exactly which permits and insurance documentation are needed during the planning process. All required documentation must be submitted to the park at least 30 days prior to your event.

Caterers and Vendors

Events may be catered by anyone that the permittee chooses. The Angel Island Company can provide on-island catering services seasonally, visit https://angelisland.com/ for more information or to submit an inquiry. The name of the caterer or vendor should be included on the event permit. Keep in mind that all crew, equipment, and supplies must be transported by ferry or charter vessel.

Outside providers will be charged 10% of their gross receipts as a standard concession fee. Any outside business making money on state property must pay a percentage back to the state. This includes, but is not limited to, equipment rentals, caterers, event coordinators, photographers, videographers, florists, etc.

If the vendor is bringing their own equipment, it is highly recommended to complete a walk-through of the site prior to the event. To schedule a walkthrough with Park staff please contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov.

Transportation and Access

Angel Island State Park is accessible only by ferry or private vessel. Event organizers are responsible for coordinating transportation for guests and equipment. Ferry schedules change throughout the year and are different on weekdays and weekends. Please check the ferry company’s schedule before you arrive. Ferry ticket prices include the State Park entrance fee.

Ferries to Angel Island State Park operate from both Tiburon and San Francisco (Pier 41). 

From Tiburon: https://angelislandferry.com/

From San Francisco: https://www.goldengate.org/ferry/schedules-maps/

Private Charters

Private vessel or charter services may be permitted with prior approval. Docking fee and park entrance fees are based on the number of people on board. Please contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov for a Docking Permit. 

Transportation on Island

Venues on Angel Island State Park are often miles apart, and transportation may be necessary depending on your event location. If your guests are not able to hike or you wish to arrange transportation for your guests, please arrange directly with the Angel Island Company at https://angelisland.com/.

Plan Your Event with Angel Island Company

Looking for a full-service event experience? The Angel Island Company, which operates the Angel Island Café, offers private event packages with catering, coordination, and transportation around the island. From company picnics and weddings to casual gatherings, the Angel Island Company can help you create a seamless and memorable celebration on the island.

Visit https://angelisland.com/ for details or to submit an inquiry about group events and catering options.

Rules and Regulations

To help protect park resources and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors, please review and follow these event guidelines:

  • No dogs, except service animals. Emotional support animals are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Smoking is only allowed on paved areas at least 20 feet (6 meters) from any building. Marijuana is not permitted.
  • No roller skates, roller blades, skateboards, scooters or personal Segways.
  • No drones or drone filming, except by permit. Please see related page regarding film permits.
  • Decorations, amplified sound, and catering require prior approval.
  • All waste must be packed out or disposed of properly.
  • No ignition sources, no wood fires, no candles, no fireworks, etc. are allowed.
  • Park users shall not throw rice, birdseed or confetti; party balloons shall not be released into the air or in the park; flower petals, natural or synthetic, are to be removed at the end of the event. Cut flowers and bouquets must be removed from site at the end of the event.
  • No disturbances of any features including rocks, soil or plants shall be allowed. Use of plant material in State Parks is restricted.
  • Events must respect park resources and other visitors.

Contact Information

Have questions or ready to start planning your event? Our team is happy to assist with site selection, scheduling, and permit applications.

Please contact permits.angelisland@parks.ca.gov with a description of your event and requested date.