PIER 39: San Francisco's Playful Waterfront
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront at PIER 39: Home to playful sea lions, diverse dining, unique shopping, and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges.
PIER 39, a vibrant waterfront marketplace in San Francisco, has been a beloved destination since 1978. Nestled on the edge of Fisherman's Wharf, it offers stunning views of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. The pier is famous for its playful sea lions that began gathering in droves in 1990 and have become a major attraction. Beyond the sea lions, PIER 39 boasts a wide array of attractions, including the Aquarium of the Bay, a two-story carousel, street performances, and virtual 3D rides. With over 50 unique shops and diverse dining options, from fresh seafood to classic San Francisco clam chowder, PIER 39 provides an unforgettable experience for families and tourists alike.
A brief summary to PIER 39
- The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-705-5500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, especially when viewing the sea lions.
- Take advantage of the dining discounts offered at participating restaurants by validating your parking ticket at the PIER 39 Garage.
- Check the PIER 39 website for upcoming events and street performer schedules to enhance your visit with live entertainment.
- Bring a jacket, as the waterfront can be breezy and cool, even on sunny days. Layering is key to staying comfortable.
- Consider purchasing a Muni Passport for unlimited access to San Francisco's public transportation, making it easy to explore other attractions in the city.
Getting There
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Walking
From Fisherman's Wharf, PIER 39 is a pleasant walk of approximately 10-20 minutes. Head east along Jefferson Street, following the waterfront. You'll pass several shops and restaurants as you make your way towards the pier. The entrance to PIER 39 will be clearly marked on your right. This route offers scenic views of the bay and is a great way to soak in the atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf.
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Public Transport
From various points in San Francisco, the F Market & Wharves streetcar provides convenient access to PIER 39. Exit at the Embarcadero & Stockton St stop, which is directly adjacent to the pier's entrance. A single ride on Muni, including the streetcar, costs $3.00 cash, or $2.75 with a Clipper Card or the MuniMobile app. A one-day pass, which does not include cable cars, is $5.50, offering unlimited rides on Muni buses, streetcars, and metro lines.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from Union Square to PIER 39 typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. The drop-off point is usually near the entrance to the pier on The Embarcadero.
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Driving
If driving, approach PIER 39 via The Embarcadero. Convenient parking is available at the PIER 39 Garage, located directly across the street from the entrance. Weekday parking costs $10 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $50. Weekend and holiday rates are $12 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $60. Dining at select PIER 39 restaurants can provide one hour of validated free parking. Advance reservations can offer discounted flat rates.
Discover more about PIER 39
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Lions
0.2 km
Experience the charm of San Francisco's Sea Lions at Fisherman's Wharf, where playful marine life meets stunning waterfront views.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
0.3 km
Discover the playful sea lions basking in the sun at Pier 39, an iconic San Francisco attraction offering stunning bay views and family-friendly fun.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.3 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.5 km
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Pier 31 (1917)
0.6 km
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Lombard St & Kearny St
0.6 km
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Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
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Coit Tower
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One Lombard Street
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California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
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Washington Square
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Filbert Steps
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Explore Filbert Steps in San Francisco, where a charming staircase leads you through lush gardens and offers breathtaking views of the Bay and city skyline.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
1.0 km
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2905 Hyde St
1.0 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.
Hyde Street Pier
1.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
0.0 km
Discover the thrill of flying and immersive adventures at Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Aquarium of the Bay
0.0 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39, a top tourist attraction in San Francisco for marine life enthusiasts.
ACsailingSF
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of San Francisco Bay with ACsailingSF, a top-rated boat tour agency offering unforgettable sailing adventures and stunning views.
California Welcome Center
0.1 km
Your ultimate guide to exploring California awaits at the California Welcome Center, located at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Blue & Gold Fleet
0.1 km
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Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
0.2 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.
Musical Stairs
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting Musical Stairs in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf, where art meets music in an interactive climb for all ages.
Plaza de California
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza de California, a charming square in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, brimming with culture, shopping, and scenic views.
Fisherman's Wharf
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
0.2 km
Experience the magic of the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39, a whimsical attraction perfect for families and tourists of all ages.
Essential places to dine
Eagle Cafe
0.0 km
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Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.1 km
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Fog Harbor Fish House
0.1 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
0.1 km
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.4 km
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Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.4 km
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Fior d'Italia
0.6 km
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Surisan
0.7 km
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Cioppino's
0.8 km
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Capurro's Restaurant
0.9 km
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Original Joe's
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Red Window
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Gary Danko
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Sotto Mare
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Only In San Francisco
0.0 km
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Under the Golden Gate
0.1 km
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The Cable Car Store
0.1 km
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Fairy Tales
0.1 km
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I Love SF
0.1 km
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Solve It! Think out of the box
0.1 km
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Enlightenment
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Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
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Route 66
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Missing Audrey Vintage
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Safe Harbor
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Frank's Fisherman
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Vacation
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Via Margutta Vintage
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WORK
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hard Rock Cafe
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
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Luau Lounge
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Red Jack Saloon
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
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The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
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Sweetie's Art Bar
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Bodega North Beach
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Tony Nik's CAFE
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Gino & Carlo
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Maggie McGarry's
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The Showdown
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The Saloon
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15 Romolo
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Cold Drinks Bar
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