The Wave Organ: San Francisco's Acoustic Sculpture
Experience the haunting melodies of the Wave Organ, a unique San Francisco sound sculpture with stunning bay views.
The Wave Organ is a unique, wave-activated acoustic sculpture on a jetty in San Francisco's Marina District. Created in 1986 by artist Peter Richards and sculptor George Gonzales, it uses 25 organ pipes to transform the sounds of the bay into subtle, haunting music. It offers stunning views of the city, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz.
A brief summary to The Wave Organ
- 83 Marina Green Dr, San Francisco, Marina District, California, 94123, US
- +1415-528-4444
- Visit website
- 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 sound experience.
- Check the tide charts before you go, as the sound is very subtle during low tide.
- Bring a jacket, as the waterfront can be chilly and windy, even on sunny days.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Crissy Field for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Parking is free but can be limited, especially on weekends; consider public transport or arriving early.
Getting There
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Walking
From Marina Green, walk east along the waterfront path towards the St. Francis Yacht Club. Continue past the yacht club, following Yacht Road along the harbor. The Wave Organ is located at the end of the jetty, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the main area of Marina Green. The path is paved and mostly flat, offering views of the bay. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni 30 bus to the Mason Street and Yacht Road stop. Walk straight toward the water and turn right to enter the parking lot. Continue along Yacht Road to the Wave Organ. A single ride on Muni is $3.00 cash or $2.85 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass is $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit onto Marina Boulevard. Follow Marina Boulevard to the Marina Green. Continue along Marina Green Drive to the parking area near the St. Francis Yacht Club. From the parking lot, walk along Yacht Road to the Wave Organ. Parking is free, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends and during events. No toll roads are involved in the final approach.
Discover more about The Wave Organ
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