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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.

★★★★★4.6 (126615)

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.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to PIER 39

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
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

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    Getting There

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Discover more about PIER 39

    PIER 39, located along the historic San Francisco Waterfront, is a vibrant destination offering a mix of dining, entertainment, shopping, and stunning views of the city and the Bay. Opened in 1978, the pier has become famous for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly attractions. One of the pier's most popular draws is the colony of California sea lions that have taken up residence on the docks. Arriving in droves in 1990, these playful marine mammals have become a local and international sensation, with their numbers sometimes reaching over 1,000. Visitors can observe the sea lions from viewing areas, learn about them at the Sea Lion Center, and even watch them on a live webcam. PIER 39 also offers a variety of attractions, including the Aquarium of the Bay, a two-story carousel, street performances, and virtual 3D rides. Visitors can explore numerous shops and restaurants, offering everything from souvenirs to fresh seafood. From the pier, you can enjoy postcard views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Angel Island.

    A brief summary to PIER 39

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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