San Francisco: Electric GoCar Tour over Golden Gate Bridge

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the excitement of speed with the chance to see some of the most iconic sights near San Francisco, an Electric GoCar Tour over the Golden Gate might just be your perfect outing. This isn’t your typical sightseeing bus—imagine zipping along in a sleek, electric three-wheeler, with the wind in your hair and the Bay in your view. It’s a ride that promises a lively, open-air experience, perfect for those who like to turn sightseeing into a bit of a thrill.

Two things that stand out about this tour? First, the ability to cross the Golden Gate Bridge in your own open-air vehicle offers a sense of freedom and adventure that few other tours can match. Second, the tour’s coverage of Sausalito and panoramic viewpoints like Battery Spencer makes it a well-rounded way to experience some of the best scenery outside the city.

However, a word of caution: because the electric GoCar is a small, motorcycle-like vehicle, it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or a fear of open-air driving at speed. Also, personal motorcycle insurance is mandatory, which might be a new requirement for some travelers. That said, if you’re an adventurous spirit, this tour offers more than just sightseeing; it offers a memorable story of a day well spent.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, couples, or small groups who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable with a bit of speed, and want to go beyond the usual city sights. It’s perfect for those craving a mix of fun, scenic views, and a taste of local thrill-seeking.

Key Points

• Unique Electric Vehicle: The Arcimoto FUV electric GoCar is a three-wheeled, freeway-legal motorcycle with a top speed of 75 mph, offering an exhilarating ride.
• Scenic Highlights: Cross the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Sausalito, and enjoy stunning Bay views from Battery Spencer and Hawk Hill.
• Flexible Rental: You get a 3-hour rental for the price of a standard 2-hour tour, giving you extra time to enjoy the sights at your pace.
• Safety & Requirements: Personal motorcycle insurance is mandatory, and drivers must be at least 25 years old with a valid license.
• All-Inclusive: Helmets, full vehicle charge, and a driver orientation are included, making it straightforward to jump in and go.
• Limited Suitability: Not suitable for children under 12 or travelers over 254 lbs (115 kg).

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Meeting the GoCar Tours Office

Your adventure begins at the GoCar Tours office, where you’ll check in, receive a safety briefing, and get familiar with your electric vehicle. The process is straightforward, and staff are known for being friendly and helpful. We loved the way the orientation set the tone for the day—clear instructions, safety gear, and a quick rundown on how to operate the vehicle, which resembles a sporty, futuristic motorcycle.

The Vehicle: Electric and Exciting

The Arcimoto FUV is a nifty piece of engineering: a two-seat, three-wheeled electric vehicle designed for open-air fun with a top speed of 75 mph. It’s freeway legal, which allows you to cross the Golden Gate Bridge without worry. The vehicle’s full charge is included in the rental, so no need to hunt for charging stations amid your sightseeing. The upside? Quiet operation, zero emissions, and an engaging driving experience—think of it as a motorcycle with a little extra stability.

Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge

The highlight for many: driving across the Golden Gate Bridge in your own electric GoCar. The sensation of cruising over this iconic span, feeling the wind and hearing the hum of the electric motor, makes for a memorable moment. You’ll get to enjoy the views of the Bay with San Francisco’s skyline in the background. It’s a different perspective from the typical bus or bike tour, and many reviews mention the thrill of being able to control your own journey.

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Exploring Sausalito

Once across the bridge, you’re whisked into Sausalito, a charming bayside town famous for its houseboats, boutique shops, and waterfront eateries. The GoCar’s GPS guidance ensures you don’t miss the scenic streets and hidden viewpoints. You’ll love cruising through Sausalito’s quaint neighborhoods, with the opportunity to stop for photos, or just soak in the atmosphere.

Battery Spencer & Hawk Hill: Views to Remember

Two of the tour’s prime viewing spots are Battery Spencer and Hawk Hill. These elevated vantage points offer sweeping vistas of the Golden Gate and Marin Headlands. Battery Spencer, in particular, is praised for its breathtaking outlook—perfect for photos, especially if you’re into capturing the bridge with the city behind it. Hawk Hill provides a panoramic overlook that many reviewers say is “the best spot for Bay Area views,” and you’ll appreciate the ease of reaching it in your electric GoCar.

The Return Journey

After exploring these viewpoints, the tour guides you back across the bridge and towards the starting point. The route is GPS-guided, making navigation stress-free. We enjoyed the flexibility to take extra time at each stop, thanks to the 3-hour rental, rather than feeling rushed. The experience is designed to blend adventure with sightseeing, so expect a bit of speed combined with scenic stops.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers appreciate the value of the 3-hour rental, as it allows more time to enjoy the sights than a typical 2-hour tour. One shared that “the vehicle was fun, easy to operate, and the views were spectacular,” while another noted that “crossing the bridge in this vehicle is a thrill.” Some mention that the experience suits those who are comfortable with a motorcycle-like vehicle and enjoy a bit of an adrenaline rush. The reviews also highlight the professionalism of the staff and the clarity of safety instructions, which helps first-timers feel confident.

Considerations & Practicalities

• Personal motorcycle insurance is required, so you should check your policy beforehand.
• Drivers must be 25 years or older with a valid driver’s license.
• The vehicle is not suitable for children under 12 or individuals over 254 lbs.
• The tour is available in the morning and afternoon, with flexible cancellation policies—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The meeting point is easily accessible, right at the GoCar Tours office.

Price & Value

At $219 per group (up to 2 people), this tour offers a good value for the experience. Compared to other guided tours or private rentals, the combination of scenic views, the thrill of controlling your vehicle, and the flexibility makes this a unique proposition. Plus, getting the full 3-hour experience for the price of a standard 2-hour rental means extra time for spontaneous stops or photos.

The Perfect Tour for Who?

This adventure suits those who crave a sense of freedom and speed while exploring scenic spots outside San Francisco. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a fun, memorable experience rather than a traditional sit-and-listen tour. If you’re comfortable with motorcycles or open-air vehicles and want to see the Golden Gate from a fresh perspective, you’ll love this tour.

However, it’s not for everyone: travelers with limited mobility, children under 12, or those who prefer a more relaxed, enclosed sightseeing experience might find this less suitable. The open-air element and the vehicle’s speed require a bit of confidence, making it best for the adventurous.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a special license to drive the GoCar?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license, and drivers need to be at least 25 years old.

Is motorcycle insurance required?
Yes, personal motorcycle insurance is mandatory for this tour.

How long is the tour?
The rental duration is 3 hours, giving you ample time to cross the Golden Gate, explore Sausalito, and visit viewpoints like Battery Spencer and Hawk Hill.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and be prepared for open-air driving—dress comfortably for the weather.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 12 years old.

What is the vehicle like?
It’s a sleek, electric, three-wheeled vehicle that resembles a sporty motorcycle, designed for speed and open-air fun.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included as part of the rental.

Can I go faster than the speed limit?
The vehicle has a top speed of 75 mph, but you’ll be guided along scenic routes and speed limits are enforced for safety.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At the GoCar Tours office, which is easy to find in San Francisco.

Final Thoughts

The Electric GoCar Tour over the Golden Gate Bridge offers a distinctive way to see the Bay Area’s most iconic sights. It combines the thrill of speed with the serenity of scenic viewpoints, making for a memorable adventure that’s especially suited to those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to add a bit of adrenaline to their sightseeing. The fact that you can cross the Golden Gate in your own electric vehicle, stopping at viewpoints like Battery Spencer and Hawk Hill, elevates this experience above standard tours.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly those uncomfortable with open-air vehicles or speed—the sense of freedom and the panoramic views make it a worthwhile choice for adventurous spirits. With a good balance of guided navigation and personal exploration, it’s a flexible way to spend a few hours outside the city, soaking in San Francisco’s natural beauty.

In the end, if you’re craving an active, fun, and slightly daring way to see the Bay, this tour delivers on all fronts—an experience that’s likely to stand out in your travel memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby