Sausalito was incorporated in 1893, and named by 18th century Spanish explorers for the "little willow" trees (Saucelito) which were found, in abundance, on the banks of its streams.

Outdoor recreation in Sausalito includes windsurfing, jet skiing, sailing, sport fishing, bicycling, picnics in the park, tennis or just strolling on the boardwalk by the bay. Visitors can charter sailboats or fishing boats of all sizes to challenge the beauty of the bay waters.