Explore the Wonders of the Aquarium of the Bay
Dive into the captivating marine world at the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco, where education and wonder await every visitor.
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 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-6 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
The Aquarium of the Bay is a mesmerizing destination located at the iconic PIER 39 in San Francisco. This vibrant aquarium showcases the rich marine life of the San Francisco Bay, making it a must-visit for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about underwater ecosystems. Visitors are greeted with a variety of exhibits, featuring local species like sharks, rays, and playful sea otters. One of the highlights is the immersive underwater tunnel, where guests can walk through a clear tube surrounded by swimming fish, offering a unique perspective of marine life. The aquarium also features touch pools, allowing visitors to interact with sea stars and other gentle creatures, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine habitats. Beyond its captivating displays, the Aquarium of the Bay emphasizes education and conservation. Daily presentations and feeding demonstrations provide insights into the behaviors of the animals, while informative signage throughout the exhibits raises awareness about the importance of preserving marine environments. With a commitment to sustainability and wildlife protection, the aquarium plays a crucial role in educating the public about the impact of human activity on aquatic ecosystems. For those looking to make the most of their visit, consider exploring the surrounding area of PIER 39, which offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Whether you're here for a few hours or an entire day, the Aquarium of the Bay promises an unforgettable experience that combines fun, learning, and an appreciation for the wonders of the ocean.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience.
- Check the schedule for feeding times and presentations for an enhanced visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning underwater views.
- Combine your visit with other attractions at PIER 39 for a full day of fun.
Getting There
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Public Transit (Muni)
If you are starting from downtown San Francisco, head to the nearest Muni Metro station. Take the N Judah line, the T Third line, or any other line that connects you to the Embarcadero station. Once you arrive at Embarcadero, exit the station and walk towards the waterfront. Turn left on the Embarcadero and continue walking for about 15 minutes until you reach Pier 39. The Aquarium of the Bay will be located at the end of Pier 39, right by the water.
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Public Transit (Bus)
From various locations in San Francisco, you can take a bus that heads towards Fisherman’s Wharf. Routes like the 8, 30, and 47 will take you close to Pier 39. Get off at the nearest bus stop to Pier 39. From there, walk towards the waterfront, and you will see Pier 39 directly ahead. The Aquarium of the Bay is located on Pier 39, at the intersection of The Embarcadero and Beach St.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, you can walk to the Aquarium of the Bay directly. From the Fisherman’s Wharf area, head towards the water and look for Pier 39. It is a well-signposted area, and as you approach, you will see the aquarium located at the end of the pier. Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
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Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'Aquarium of the Bay' or 'Pier 39, San Francisco, CA' as your destination. The driver will drop you off right at the entrance to Pier 39, where you can easily find the aquarium.
Attractions Nearby to Aquarium of the Bay
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PIER 39
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Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
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Musical Stairs
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
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Sea Lions
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Sea Lion Viewing Area
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Pier 33
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The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
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Madame Tussauds San Francisco
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Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
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Ripley's Believe It or Not!
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Fishermans Wharf
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Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
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Musée Mécanique
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USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
Landmarks nearby to Aquarium of the Bay
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
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California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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Sentinel Building
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Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Shortest Street in California
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California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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Chinatown Flags Street
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Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
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California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
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San Francisco Historical Society
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California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California