Pier 33, Bay Area Travel Guide

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Embark on a journey to Alcatraz Island from Pier 33, a historic gateway on San Francisco's Embarcadero, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

Pier 33, also known as Alcatraz Landing, is the departure point for ferries to Alcatraz Island, a former prison turned national park. Completed in 1919, the pier has played a significant role in San Francisco's maritime history and offers visitors a gateway to the infamous Alcatraz Island.

A brief summary to Pier 33

San Francisco, Embarcadero, California, 94133, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pier 33.

Purchase Alcatraz tickets well in advance, as they often sell out weeks ahead of time.
Arrive at Pier 33 at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure to allow time for security checks and boarding.
Consider taking public transportation to Pier 33, as parking in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be limited and expensive.
Dress in layers, as the weather on Alcatraz Island can be unpredictable.

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Explore Pier 33 on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pier 33, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Fisherman's Wharf, head southeast along the Embarcadero towards Pier 33. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and takes about 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the waterfront. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

From the Ferry Building, take the Muni F Line streetcar towards Fisherman's Wharf. Get off at the Bay Street stop, which is one block north of Pier 33. A single ride fare is $3.00, or $2.50 with a Clipper card. The streetcar runs frequently, with service every 10-15 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share to Pier 33 will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $16-$20. Note that prices may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Discover more about Pier 33

Pier 33, or Alcatraz Landing, is more than just a departure point; it's the beginning of an unforgettable journey to Alcatraz Island. This bustling pier is the only place to catch an official ferry to the infamous former prison.Completed in 1919, Pier 33 holds a noteworthy place in San Francisco's maritime history. It was here that the first battleship berthed at a pier in the Pacific. Today, the pier is equipped with a tactile model of Alcatraz Island and outdoor exhibits that depict historical moments, enhancing the visitor experience even before setting sail.Located along the Embarcadero, Pier 33 is conveniently close to other iconic San Francisco attractions. Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, and the Ferry Building are all within walking distance, making it easy to combine a trip to Alcatraz with other waterfront adventures.