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The Wave Organ: An Aquatic Symphony

Experience the Wave Organ in San Francisco: an acoustic sculpture where art and nature blend to create a mesmerizing waterfront symphony.

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The Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture on a jetty in San Francisco's Marina District, creates music from the Bay's waves. Constructed from PVC and concrete pipes, along with salvaged marble and granite, it offers unique sounds and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline.

A brief summary to The Wave Organ

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during high tide for the best sounds, as the wave action is strongest then.
  • Check the tide tables before you go to plan your visit around high tide.
  • Explore the nearby Marina Green, Crissy Field, and Palace of Fine Arts for a complete experience.
  • Parking is free, but it can be limited, especially on weekends; consider public transportation.
  • Bring a jacket, as the waterfront can be windy and cool.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Palace of Fine Arts, walk east towards the waterfront and follow Marina Blvd until you reach the entrance to the Marina Green. The Wave Organ is located at 83 Marina Green Dr, right at the water's edge. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni 30-Stockton or 43-Masonic bus lines towards the Marina District. Get off at the 'Marina Blvd & Scott St' stop. Walk towards Marina Green Drive; the Wave Organ is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop, located at 83 Marina Green Dr. A single ride on Muni is $2.85 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app, or $3.00 cash.

  • Driving

    Drive to 83 Marina Green Dr, San Francisco, CA 94123. Parking is available in the lot at the end of Marina Boulevard. Parking is free. Be aware that parking may be limited, especially on weekends. As an alternative, you can find parking garages or surface lots in the area. Ghirardelli Square - Lot #347 at 900 North Point Street, Fisherman's Wharf Parking at 452 Beach Street, and Anchorage Square Garage at 542 Beach Street are some options.

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Discover more about The Wave Organ

Nestled at the end of a jetty in San Francisco's Marina District, the Wave Organ is a unique and captivating acoustic sculpture that transforms the natural sounds of San Francisco Bay into an ever-changing symphony. Created in 1986 by artist Peter Richards and sculptor George Gonzales, in collaboration with the Exploratorium, the Wave Organ is a testament to the fusion of art, science, and nature. The Wave Organ consists of 25 PVC and concrete pipes submerged in the bay at varying elevations. These pipes interact with the waves, capturing their energy and channeling it into a series of intriguing sounds. As the waves crash against the pipe ends and water moves in and out, the organ produces a range of sounds, from gentle hisses and rumbles to echoing reverberations and sloshes. The acoustics are most pronounced during high tide when the wave action is strongest. The jetty itself is constructed from materials salvaged from demolished cemeteries, including carved granite and marble. These repurposed materials add a historical touch to the site, blending the past with the present. Visitors can sit on the stone platforms and benches strategically placed near the mouths of the pipes to enhance the listening experience and enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Marin Headlands. The Wave Organ offers a tranquil escape within the bustling city, inviting visitors to connect with nature in a deeply personal way. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this unique landmark provides a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and harmony of the San Francisco Bay.

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