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Fisherman's Wharf, Oakland Travel Guide

Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront: seafood, sea lions, and stunning bay views at Fisherman's Wharf.

Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling neighborhood on San Francisco's northern waterfront, is renowned for its seafood restaurants, Pier 39 sea lions, and historic maritime atmosphere. Originally the heart of the city's fishing industry, it has evolved into a major tourist destination, offering a blend of attractions, dining, and bay views.

A brief summary to Fisherman's Wharf

  • San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, US
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fisherman's Wharf.

  • Visit Pier 39 to see the famous sea lions, but be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Try the fresh seafood, especially Dungeness crab, from one of the many restaurants or stands.
  • Take a boat tour to Alcatraz or Angel Island for a unique perspective of the bay and the city.
  • Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking can be expensive and limited.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the F-Line streetcar directly to Fisherman's Wharf. The F-Line runs along Market Street and The Embarcadero, dropping you off near Pier 39. A single ride costs $3. Alternatively, the 49 bus will also take you to Fisherman's Wharf for $3. You can also take the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason cable car from Powell and Market Streets to the Wharf for $8.

  • Ferry

    Ferries from various Bay Area locations, such as Sausalito, Oakland, and Alameda, arrive at the Ferry Building on The Embarcadero. From there, transfer to the F-Line streetcar to reach Fisherman's Wharf; the streetcar ride takes about 15 minutes and costs $3. Blue and Gold Fleet operates ferries from Sausalito directly to Fisherman's Wharf at Pier 41.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) provide direct access to Fisherman's Wharf. A ride from downtown San Francisco typically costs $14-$17 and takes approximately 6 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.

  • Driving

    Driving to Fisherman's Wharf is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive. Several parking garages are available, including the Pier 39 Garage and the Wharf Garage. Hourly rates range from $10-$12, with daily maximums between $40 and $60. The Anchorage Square Parking Garage offers rates of $3 per 15 minutes, with daily maximums of $40 (November-March) and $50 (April-October). Reservations can be made through SpotHero or ParkWhiz.

Discover more about Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's most popular destinations, drawing visitors with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. The area's story began in 1900 when the state designated the waterfront between Taylor and Leavenworth streets for commercial fishing boats. Italian and Chinese immigrants played a significant role in the Wharf's early development, catching and selling seafood delicacies.Today, Fisherman's Wharf offers a variety of attractions, including Pier 39, home to a large colony of sea lions. Visitors can explore the Aquarium of the Bay, Musée Mécanique, and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. Historic ships are anchored at Hyde Street Pier, part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Boat tours to Alcatraz Island and Angel Island are also popular.The area boasts numerous seafood restaurants, some family-owned for generations, like Fishermen's Grotto, Pompei's Grotto, and Alioto's. Fresh seafood is available from stands and eateries throughout the Wharf. A new addition is the SkyStar Observation Wheel, offering panoramic views of the city and bay. Fisherman's Wharf provides a blend of history, entertainment, and culinary delights, making it a must-see for visitors to San Francisco.
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