The Playful Sea Lions of San Francisco
Experience the lively sea lions at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, where fun meets stunning waterfront views.
Discover the vibrant colony of sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf, a must-visit attraction in San Francisco, where playful marine life meets stunning waterfront views.
A brief summary to Sea Lions
- 203 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-623-5300
- 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
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance to see the sea lions active and enjoying the sun.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the sea lions without disturbing them.
- Check the weather before your visit; sunny days are ideal for watching the sea lions.
- Explore nearby attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay and enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you're in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, head towards the waterfront along the Embarcadero. Walk south along the Embarcadero, keeping the waterfront on your left. After about a 10-minute walk, you will reach Pier 39, which is famous for its sea lion population. The sea lions can be found lounging on the docks, just beyond the shops and restaurants.
-
Public Transportation (Cable Car)
Another option is to take the Powell-Hyde cable car from the Powell Street terminal. Board the cable car and enjoy the scenic ride. Get off at the stop closest to the Embarcadero. From there, walk down to the waterfront, and head south along the Embarcadero. This will take approximately 20 minutes in total, including the ride and walk.
-
Public Transportation (Muni Bus)
You can also take a Muni bus if you are near a bus stop. Look for the 47 or 49 bus lines that stop near Fisherman's Wharf. Board the bus and ride towards the Embarcadero. Get off at a stop that is close to Pier 39. After disembarking, simply walk towards the waterfront, and you will find the sea lions.
Discover more about Sea Lions
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fisherman's Wharf
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf, where fresh seafood, historic attractions, and lively entertainment await in San Francisco.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.5 km
Discover the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf Sign, a historical landmark in San Francisco that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant waterfront culture.
Pier 31 (1917)
0.8 km
Explore the historic Pier 31 in San Francisco, where maritime heritage meets stunning waterfront views and vibrant local culture.
Lombard St & Kearny St
0.9 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, the world's crookedest street, boasting stunning views and vibrant floral scenery in San Francisco.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
0.9 km
Explore the rich maritime history of San Francisco at the 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark, a key attraction in the Maritime National Historical Park.
Hyde Street Pier
0.9 km
Experience the maritime history and breathtaking views at Hyde Street Pier, a must-visit historical landmark in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
2905 Hyde St
0.9 km
Experience the historic charm of 2905 Hyde St in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf, where stunning views and rich maritime history await.
Eureka Steamboat
0.9 km
Explore the historic Eureka Steamboat in San Francisco, a symbol of maritime heritage and a fascinating tourist attraction on the Bay.
C.A. Thayer
1.0 km
Discover the C.A. Thayer, a historic wooden schooner in San Francisco, offering a deep dive into maritime history and the legacy of seafaring.
Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Muir Woods with seamless tours from Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours, your gateway to towering redwoods and lush landscapes.
Coit Tower
1.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Coit Tower, a must-visit historical landmark in San Francisco showcasing stunning murals and panoramic vistas.
One Lombard Street
1.1 km
Explore One Lombard Street, a historical landmark in San Francisco that showcases the city’s architectural splendor and rich heritage.
California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
1.1 km
Explore the Briones Rancho Site, a historical landmark in San Francisco that encapsulates California's rich ranching heritage and cultural diversity.
Washington Square
1.1 km
Discover Washington Square, a beautiful city park in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for relaxation, culture, and scenic views.
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
1.1 km
Explore the historical significance of California Historical Landmark 236, the first ship's entry point to San Francisco Bay, with stunning scenic views.
Unmissable attractions to see
San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
0.0 km
Experience the magic of the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39, a whimsical attraction perfect for families and tourists of all ages.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
0.0 km
Experience the playful California sea lions at Pier 39, a vibrant San Francisco attraction combining marine life with stunning bay views and local culture.
The San Francisco Sailing Company
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of San Francisco Bay with sailing adventures from The San Francisco Sailing Company at Pier 39.
Pier 39
0.1 km
Experience the lively charm of Pier 39 in San Francisco, featuring shopping, dining, and stunning views of the bay and sea lions.
Musical Stairs
0.1 km
Experience the enchanting Musical Stairs in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf, where art meets music in an interactive climb for all ages.
Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
0.1 km
Explore the mesmerizing world of reflections at Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze, a must-visit amusement center in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39.
California Welcome Center
0.2 km
Your ultimate guide to exploring California awaits at the California Welcome Center, located at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Blue & Gold Fleet
0.2 km
Explore San Francisco's stunning waterfront and iconic landmarks with Blue & Gold Fleet's unforgettable boat tours and ferry services.
Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
0.2 km
Discover the thrill of flying and immersive adventures at Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
ACsailingSF
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of San Francisco Bay with ACsailingSF, a top-rated boat tour agency offering unforgettable sailing adventures and stunning views.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.3 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch, a must-see landmark in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf, where maritime history meets vibrant culture.
Essential places to dine
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
0.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Fog Harbor Fish House
0.2 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Eagle Cafe
0.2 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.4 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
Surisan
0.7 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Fior d'Italia
0.7 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Cioppino's
0.8 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Capurro's Restaurant
0.9 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Gary Danko
1.0 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Original Joe's
1.2 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Red Window
1.2 km
Discover Red Window: A delightful European-inspired bar in San Francisco's North Beach offering tapas, cocktails, and a charming beer garden.
Sotto Mare
1.2 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Enlightenment
0.1 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
Solve It! Think out of the box
0.1 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
I Love SF
0.1 km
Discover unique San Francisco souvenirs at I Love SF, a vibrant gift shop showcasing the spirit of the city in every treasure.
Fairy Tales
0.1 km
Explore the whimsical world of Fairy Tales Gift Shop at Pier 39, San Francisco, where magic and creativity come to life in enchanting souvenirs.
The Cable Car Store
0.1 km
Explore San Francisco's charm at The Cable Car Store, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city's iconic culture.
Under the Golden Gate
0.2 km
Explore Under the Golden Gate, a vibrant gift shop at Pier 39 offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of San Francisco.
Only In San Francisco
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Route 66
0.6 km
Discover Route 66: A charming general store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Safe Harbor
0.7 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Frank's Fisherman
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Missing Audrey Vintage
0.9 km
Explore the eclectic world of fashion at Missing Audrey Vintage, where unique vintage clothing and accessories await in vibrant North Beach, San Francisco.
Vacation
1.2 km
Explore San Francisco's retro charm at a vintage clothing store filled with unique fashion finds and timeless treasures.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
1.2 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
Lola of North Beach
1.2 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
0.1 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Luau Lounge
0.1 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Hard Rock Cafe
0.2 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
0.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
Red Jack Saloon
0.5 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Sweetie's Art Bar
0.7 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Bodega North Beach
1.0 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Tony Nik's CAFE
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
1.2 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Maggie McGarry's
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
The Showdown
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
The Saloon
1.4 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at The Saloon, North Beach's oldest bar, featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
15 Romolo
1.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at 15 Romolo, a cozy bar offering innovative drinks and delicious tapas in North Beach.
Cold Drinks Bar
1.4 km
Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
