Discover the Vibrant Charm of PIER 39
Explore PIER 39: A vibrant waterfront destination in San Francisco with shopping, dining, and stunning views of the bay.
Nestled along the bustling Embarcadero in San Francisco, PIER 39 is a vibrant waterfront marketplace that captures the essence of this iconic city. This popular tourist attraction is renowned for its stunning views of the bay and the famous Golden Gate Bridge, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration. Visitors can stroll along the pier, where the sounds of sea lions barking and the scent of fresh seafood create an inviting atmosphere. With over 110 shops and restaurants, PIER 39 offers an array of dining options that cater to all tastes, from casual bites to fine dining experiences. Beyond shopping and dining, PIER 39 hosts a variety of attractions that appeal to families and visitors of all ages. Enjoy thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and live entertainment that keeps the energy vibrant throughout the day. Don't miss the chance to visit the Aquarium of the Bay, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life native to the region. The backdrop of the sparkling waters adds to the allure, making every moment spent here memorable. As day turns to night, PIER 39 transforms into a romantic setting, where visitors can enjoy sunset views while savoring a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants. The lively atmosphere, combined with the stunning views and rich history, makes PIER 39 not just a destination but an experience that should not be missed when visiting San Francisco.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Check the schedule for live entertainment events happening throughout the day.
- Try to catch a glimpse of the sea lions lounging on the docks; they are a highlight of PIER 39.
- Plan for sunset views; the waterfront offers breathtaking scenery as the sun sets over the bay.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
A brief summary to PIER 39
- The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-705-5500
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving to PIER 39, start by navigating to San Francisco via US-101 N or I-80 W, depending on your location within the Bay Area. Once in San Francisco, follow signs for 'Fisherman’s Wharf.' Take the exit for 'Embarcadero' and continue straight until you reach PIER 39. There is parking available at the Pier, but expect to pay around $10 to $20 for parking, depending on the duration.
-
Public Transportation - BART and Muni
Begin your journey by taking BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to the Embarcadero station. From there, transfer to the Muni F-line streetcar towards Fisherman’s Wharf. Ride the streetcar until you reach the PIER 39 stop. The fare for BART varies based on distance, but expect to pay around $5 to $10. Muni fares are approximately $3 for a one-way trip.
-
Public Transportation - Bus
You can also reach PIER 39 by taking a bus. Look for routes that service Fisherman’s Wharf, such as the 8X, 30, or 47 lines. Board the bus at your nearest bus stop, and pay the fare (around $3) upon boarding or use a Clipper Card for convenience. Get off at the Fisherman's Wharf stop, and PIER 39 will be a short walk from there.
-
Ride-Sharing Services
If you prefer a more direct route or don't want to deal with public transportation, consider using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'PIER 39, San Francisco, CA' as your destination. The cost will vary based on your starting location and time of day, but expect to pay between $15 to $30 from most locations in San Francisco.
Attractions Nearby to PIER 39
- Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
- Aquarium of the Bay
- California Welcome Center
- Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
- Musical Stairs
- San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
- Sea Lions
- Sea Lion Viewing Area
- Museum of 3D Illusions
- The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
- Madame Tussauds San Francisco
- Pier 33
- Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
- Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- Fishermans Wharf
Landmarks nearby to PIER 39
- Pier 43 Ferry Arch
- Pier 31 (1917)
- Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
- One Lombard Street
- California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
- 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
- Eureka Steamboat
- C.A. Thayer
- California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
- Russian Hill-Macondray Lane Historic District
- Northeast Waterfront Historic District
- Maritime Museum
- Jackson Square Historic District
- Sentinel Building
- Chinatown Hero's Mural