Dive into the Wonders of the Aquarium of the Bay
Explore the vibrant marine life at the Aquarium of the Bay, a captivating tourist attraction at Pier 39, San Francisco, showcasing the wonders of the ocean.
Located at the iconic Pier 39 in San Francisco, the Aquarium of the Bay offers visitors an enchanting glimpse into the marine life of the San Francisco Bay. With immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, this aquarium is a must-visit for tourists of all ages. Marvel at the vibrant underwater ecosystems, and don't miss the exhilarating touch pools where you can engage with some of the ocean’s fascinating creatures.
A brief summary to Aquarium of the Bay
- PIER 39 The Embarcadero &, Beach St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, CA, 94133, US
- +1415-623-5300
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid the larger crowds typical on weekends.
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and educational talks to enhance your experience.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance for quicker entry and to secure any special promotions.
- Don't miss the interactive touch pools, especially if visiting with children; it's a highlight of the aquarium.
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the nearest bus stop at Shattuck Ave & University Ave. Take the AC Transit Bus 52 towards the 'Berkeley BART' station. Get off at the 'MacArthur Blvd & 40th Ave' stop. Transfer to Bus 8 towards 'San Francisco' and ride until you reach 'Embarcadero & Beach St'. From there, it’s a short walk to Pier 39.
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BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Make your way to the nearest BART station, which is the Downtown Berkeley station. Board a train heading towards 'San Francisco/Daly City'. Get off at the 'Embarcadero' station. Once you exit the station, follow the signs to the Ferry Building and then walk towards the waterfront to reach Pier 39, which is about a 15-minute walk.
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Walking
If you're close enough to the waterfront, you can walk directly to Pier 39. From the University of California, Berkeley campus, head south on Telegraph Ave, then turn right onto University Ave. Continue to the waterfront and follow the Embarcadero until you reach Pier 39. This is a scenic route along the bay.
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Bicycle
Rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Berkeley. Head south on Shattuck Ave, then take the bike path that leads towards the waterfront. Follow the bike lanes along the Embarcadero, which will take you directly to Pier 39. This ride is approximately 10 miles and offers beautiful views.
Discover more about Aquarium of the Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Lions
0.3 km
Experience the playful chaos of San Francisco's famous sea lions at Pier 39, where these charismatic marine mammals bask in the sun and charm visitors from around the world.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
0.3 km
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.4 km
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Pier 31 (1917)
0.5 km
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Fisherman's Wharf
0.6 km
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Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.6 km
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Lombard St & Kearny St
0.6 km
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Coit Tower
0.8 km
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Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
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One Lombard Street
0.8 km
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California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
0.8 km
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Washington Square
0.9 km
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Filbert Steps
0.9 km
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
1.0 km
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2905 Hyde St
1.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
0.0 km
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PIER 39
0.0 km
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ACsailingSF
0.0 km
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California Welcome Center
0.1 km
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Plaza de California
0.1 km
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Blue & Gold Fleet
0.1 km
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Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
0.2 km
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Musical Stairs
0.2 km
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
0.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.1 km
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Eagle Cafe
0.1 km
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Fog Harbor Fish House
0.1 km
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Crab House at Pier 39
0.1 km
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.5 km
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Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.5 km
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Fior d'Italia
0.6 km
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Surisan
0.7 km
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Cioppino's
0.9 km
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Original Joe's
0.9 km
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Capurro's Restaurant
1.0 km
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Red Window
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Sotto Mare
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Gary Danko
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Only In San Francisco
0.1 km
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Under the Golden Gate
0.1 km
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The Cable Car Store
0.1 km
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Fairy Tales
0.2 km
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I Love SF
0.2 km
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Solve It! Think out of the box
0.2 km
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Enlightenment
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Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
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Route 66
0.6 km
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Missing Audrey Vintage
0.7 km
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Safe Harbor
0.8 km
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Frank's Fisherman
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Vacation
0.9 km
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Via Margutta Vintage
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WORK
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hard Rock Cafe
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
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Red Jack Saloon
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Luau Lounge
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
0.4 km
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The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.4 km
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Sweetie's Art Bar
0.5 km
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Bodega North Beach
0.8 km
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Tony Nik's CAFE
1.0 km
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Gino & Carlo
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Maggie McGarry's
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The Showdown
1.1 km
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The Saloon
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15 Romolo
1.2 km
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Cold Drinks Bar
1.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carbon
0.5 km
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Club Fugazi Experiences
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Vanity San Francisco
1.2 km
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Monroe SF
1.2 km
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Rouge Night Club
1.8 km
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Hawthorn SF Nightclub and Lounge
2.3 km
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Providence Night Club
2.4 km
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Sam's Cable Car Lounge
2.4 km
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Harlot
2.4 km
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Temple Nightclub San Francisco
2.5 km
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Club Six
3.0 km
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Monarch
3.1 km
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City Nights
3.1 km
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Club X
3.1 km
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Pa'ina Restaurant & Lounge
3.3 km
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