5 Spots for the Best Ice Cream in Sausalito in 2023

While the Bay Area isn’t known for the warm weather of Southern California, we’ve been known to have a great day here and there. Warm days in Sausalito are a treat, as the sun shining on the palms, sparkling water, and hillside homes take on an even more European essence. These are also the best days to stop for a cool treat when walking around, and there are some great spots for ice cream in Sausalito.

Below you’ll find a list of all of the places you can get ice cream in Sausalito; the list is ranked in order of best and most popular to, well, less so. (You’ll see what I mean as you read!) Personally, my go-to spot is Lappert’s, and it’s worth any line you have to stand in for its delicious flavors.

Whether you’re standing on a Sausalito street corner trying to decide where to go, looking for dessert after a great dinner, or researching before your trip, this list of Sausalito ice cream spots will be the cherry on top of a great day. (Pun intended!)

Sausalito is the traditional lands of the Graton Rancheria, Miwok, and Me-Wuk (Coast Miwok) peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation to the past and present stewards of these lands. To learn more, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in April 2022, and was updated most recently in January 2023.

1. Lappert’s Ice Cream

There’s no better way to cool down on a hot day than with a delicious ice cream cone from Lappert’s Ice Cream. This ice cream shop originally started in Hawaii and has been serving up ice cream since 1978. Its wide selection of flavors will satisfy everyone’s palate. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like Thai iced tea and piña colada, Lappert’s has something for everyone. My personal faves are Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel and Date Casablanca.

The ice cream is made with only the highest quality ingredients and is always served fresh. It’s a perk, too, that the shop’s friendly staff is always happy to help you find that perfect flavor you’ve been craving for. 

Lappert’s also offers a wide selection of ice cream cakes, pies, and other desserts, and be sure to check out Lappert’s famous ice cream cakes – they’re the perfect way to celebrate any occasion.

2. Sausalito Sweets

Sausalito Sweets is another Sausalito ice cream shop that serves up delicious ice cream, gelato, and sorbet made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It has something for everyone, with flavors like salted caramel, mint chocolate chip, and strawberry cheesecake. And the shop offers a wide selection of toppings, including nuts, whipped cream, and sprinkles.

The ice cream is made in small batches to ensure freshness and quality, and the shop’s ice cream makers are passionate about their craft. So be sure to come by and enjoy a scoop or two of this yummy Sausalito ice cream.

3. Sausalito Bakery & Cafe

Sausalito Bakery & Cafe is a town favorite, and for good reason; it serves up some of the best baked goods and ice cream in Sausalito. And if you’re looking for a great cup of coffee to go with your dessert, the cafe has you covered there too.

The menu features a variety of pastries, cakes, cookies, and other desserts, all made with the freshest ingredients. And don’t forget to check out the café’s famous coffee and ice cream – it’s some of the best Sausalito ice cream and Joe around!

Sausalito Bakery & Cafe has two locations in Sausalito, both of which offer outdoor seating with great views of the bay. So be sure to come by and enjoy a pastry or cake while taking in the beautiful sights of Sausalito.

4. Sausalito Gelato and Chocolate

I’ll be honest, I’m a bit confused about whether this chocolate and gelato shop is called “Sausalito Gelato and Chocolate” or “COA Chocolate and Gelato” – I’m pretty sure the ownership and name changed at some point during the pandemic.

In either case, all you need to know is that this spot for ice cream in Sausalito is located next to the Sausalito stairs and Instagram-worthy “Welcome to Sausalito” wall; that makes it a perfect spot to grab a sweet treat, step outside to sit on the steps, and watch the world go by.

Specifically addressing their gelato selection, they have both traditional and innovative flavors, like blueberry ricotta and toasted coconut. If you love gelato more than ice cream, this is the spot! (Their red chocolate hearts are also renowned among locals, so be sure to buy one of those too when grabbing a cone.)

5. Ice Cream and Yogurt

In some cases, a simple name is better; Ice Cream and Yogurt is located in the same restaurant as “Fish and Chips” and “Hamburgers” and that’s all the name you need to know exactly what you’ll get! I’ll be honest though: I haven’t actually been in here, though I’d be remiss to leave it off the list. I’ve put it last as a final option, though I’d recommend any of the other spots for ice cream in Sausalito above this one.

Have any questions about these Sausalito ice cream spots? Let me know in the comments!