Slack water
I always try to get out of the Bay around slack, and return on a flood if possible. While it sounds good to ride the ebb out, and you will get out faster, you get beat-up from the bridge on as outgoing water meets coastal current and prevailing winds. For me it's better to fight a mild flood and take more time than fight the swells an ebb develops.
As for leaving time, I like to enjoy the anchorage so we usually leave the marina closer to eight than ten depending on tides.
This time of year, as often as not, traveling outside the Gate turns into a motorfest at least half the trip.
I hope this helps. with luck, others will give their thoughts to help you plan.
Don