PIER 39: San Francisco's Playful Waterfront
Experience San Francisco's waterfront charm at PIER 39: sea lions, stunning views, dining, and family fun on the historic Embarcadero.
PIER 39, a bustling entertainment and shopping pier in San Francisco, offers stunning views, family-friendly attractions, and the famous colony of California sea lions. Opened in 1978, it has become a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a taste of the city's vibrant waterfront culture.
A brief summary to PIER 39
- The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-705-5500
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit the sea lions early in the morning for a less crowded viewing experience.
- Check the schedule for street performers and live shows at the Bay End Stage for free entertainment.
- Dine at participating restaurants for validated parking in the PIER 39 Garage.
- Take advantage of the PIER 39 mobile app for maps, directories, and special offers.
- Bring a jacket, as it can be windy and cool near the water.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the historic F-Line streetcar or Muni bus lines 8, 30, 39, 47 or 49 to The Embarcadero & Stockton St stop. From there, it's a short walk to PIER 39's entrance. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00 cash or $2.85 with a Clipper card or MuniMobile. A day pass for unlimited rides is $5.70 via MuniMobile.
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Walking
From the San Francisco Ferry Building, head north along The Embarcadero for approximately 1.2 miles. The walk takes about 25 minutes and offers scenic views of the waterfront. Follow the Embarcadero, and PIER 39 will be on your left.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide direct access to PIER 39. A typical ride from the Ferry Building costs $10-$20 and takes only a few minutes, depending on traffic.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs to Fisherman's Wharf and PIER 39. The PIER 39 Garage is located directly across the street from the entrance. Hourly parking rates range from $10-$12, with daily maximums of $50-$60. Limited validated parking is available at participating full-service restaurants.
