Fisherman's Wharf: San Francisco's Vibrant Waterfront

• HelloAhoy
  [ah-oi]
• GoodbyeCatch ya later
  [kach ya ley-ter]
• YesAye
  [ai]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomeHere you go
  [heer yu go]
• Thank youThanks a bunch
  [thanks uh bunch]
• Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [mai bad]
• How are you?What's up?
  [wats up]
• Fine. And you?I'm cool. You?
  [aim kool yu]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yu speak ing-lish]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [aim lost]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me check out the grub, please
  [let mi chek out the grub pleez]
• I don't eat meatI'm veggie
  [aim veji]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek pleez]

• Help!Mayday!
  [may-day]
• Go away!Beat it!
  [beet it]
• Call the Police!Get the fuzz!
  [get the fuz]
• Call a doctor!Get a medic!
  [get a med-ik]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [aim turnd a-round]
• I'm illI'm under the weather
  [aim un-der the we-ther]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna snag...
  [ai wana snag]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just bro-zing]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [wats the dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's highway robbery
  [thats hai-way rob-ri]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do me a solid?
  [kan yu do mi a sol-id]

• What time is it?What's the clock say?
  [wats the klok say]
• It's one o'clockIt's high noon
  [its hai noon]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningSunup
  [sun-up]
• AfternoonNoon
  [noon]
• EveningSunset
  [sun-set]
• YesterdayThe day before
  [the day be-for]
• TodayRight now
  [rite now]
• TomorrowThe day after
  [the day af-ter]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fiv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ait]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?Where's it located?
  [wheres it lo-kay-ted]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [kan yu point it out]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next ride?
  [whens the next ried]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [a pass to]

Before the arrival of European settlers, the area now known as Fisherman's Wharf was inhabited by the Ohlone people, who lived along the California coast and relied on the rich marine resources of the Bay. Their fishing techniques and deep connection to the ocean laid the foundations for the area's future as a fishing hub.

In 1776, the Spanish established the Presidio of San Francisco and Mission San Francisco de Asís, marking the beginning of European influence in the area. Fisherman's Wharf, located on the northern waterfront, began to develop as a key site for maritime trade and fishing, supporting the growing settlement of San Francisco.

The California Gold Rush of 1849 brought a massive influx of people to San Francisco, transforming it into a bustling port city. Fisherman's Wharf emerged as a vital area for supplying food and provisions to miners and newcomers. The wharf became a center for fish processing and shipping, significantly contributing to the region's economy.

By the late 19th century, Fisherman's Wharf had established itself as the heart of San Francisco's fishing industry. The area was dotted with fish markets, canneries, and the iconic wooden fishing boats. Fishermen primarily caught salmon, crab, and other local fish, cementing the wharf's reputation as a key player in California's seafood industry.

Post-World War II, the fishing industry at Fisherman's Wharf faced challenges due to overfishing and industrialization. However, the area underwent revitalization in the 1970s with the development of tourist attractions like Pier 39, transforming Fisherman's Wharf into a vibrant waterfront destination that blends its fishing heritage with modern entertainment and dining.

Today, Fisherman's Wharf is a major tourist attraction, known for its seafood restaurants, shops, and historic sites. It celebrates its maritime heritage with events like the annual Crab Festival and draws visitors from around the world to experience the unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that define this iconic San Francisco neighborhood.

Fisherman's Wharf is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in San Francisco. If you are coming from Union Square, you can take the Powell-Hyde Cable Car, which provides a scenic ride. Alternatively, the Muni 30 or 47 buses connect Fisherman's Wharf to other areas like the Financial District and Chinatown. If you are arriving via BART, disembark at the Embarcadero station and take the F-Market streetcar along the waterfront directly to Fisherman's Wharf.

Fisherman's Wharf is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. For those needing to travel further, the F-Market & Wharves streetcar runs along the Embarcadero, connecting to various points of interest. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, and bike lanes are available along the waterfront. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available for convenient transportation.

Fisherman's Wharf is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, especially near Pier 39. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded locations, so keep your belongings secure. Areas nearby such as the Tenderloin are known for higher crime rates; it’s advisable to avoid these neighborhoods after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Fisherman's Wharf is serviced by local police and medical facilities. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, which is UCSF Medical Center. It is also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable with wind and fog. Don't wear overly flashy jewelry that may attract unwanted attention. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting any religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don’t block the aisles or doors on public transport. Greetings: Do smile and make eye contact when greeting others. Eating & Drinking: Do try the clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls. Don't litter or leave food scraps in public areas.

To experience Fisherman's Wharf like a local, visit the fishing docks early in the morning to see the fishermen at work. Try to catch a glimpse of the sea lions at Pier 39, but avoid feeding them. Explore the back alleys and lesser-known shops for unique souvenirs away from the tourist traps. Consider visiting the local markets for fresh seafood and local crafts. For a unique view of the bay, consider taking a ferry ride to nearby Sausalito or Alcatraz Island.