Sea Lions of Pier 39
Experience the playful chaos of San Francisco's famous sea lions at Pier 39, where these charismatic marine mammals bask in the sun and charm visitors from around the world.
The boisterous sea lions of Pier 39 are one of San Francisco's most beloved and unusual attractions. Since 1990, these charismatic marine mammals have taken up residence on the pier's K-Dock, delighting visitors with their playful antics, constant barking, and impressive size. Arriving after the Loma Prieta earthquake, the sea lions found a safe haven with plenty of food, quickly transforming the pier into a bustling, noisy spectacle. Their numbers fluctuate throughout the year, with the largest gatherings typically occurring between late July and October. Whether basking in the sun, squabbling over prime dock space, or simply lounging about, the sea lions offer a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of a major city. Pier 39 provides accessible viewing areas, making it easy for everyone to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
A brief summary to Sea Lions
- 203 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-623-5300
Local tips
- Visit during late July to October for the largest sea lion gatherings.
- Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for quieter viewing and better lighting for photos.
- Check out the Pier 39 Sea Lion Webcam for a live view of the docks anytime, anywhere.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Aquarium of the Bay to learn more about local marine life.
- Take public transportation or walk to Pier 39, as parking can be expensive.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From anywhere in San Francisco, take the Muni's historic F-Line trolley to the Embarcadero & Stockton St stop, which is steps from Pier 39. Alternatively, several Muni bus lines (8-Bayshore, 30-Stockton, 39-Coit, 49-Van Ness/Mission) stop near Pier 39. A single ride on Muni costs $3.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from downtown San Francisco to Pier 39 will typically cost between $16-$20, depending on traffic and distance.
-
Driving
If driving, approach Pier 39 via The Embarcadero. Parking is available at the Pier 39 Garage, located directly across the street from the entrance. Weekday rates are $10/hour (maximum daily rate of $50), and weekend/holiday rates are $12/hour (maximum daily rate of $60). Dining at select Pier 39 restaurants can provide parking validation for one free hour.
Discover more about Sea Lions
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fisherman's Wharf
0.5 km
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront: fresh seafood, playful sea lions, historic ships, and stunning bay views await at Fisherman's Wharf.
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
Discover the San Francisco Bay Ark at Fisherman's Wharf: Step back in time and explore a unique piece of maritime history, showcasing early 20th-century houseboat living.
Hyde Street Pier
0.9 km
Explore San Francisco's seafaring past at Hyde Street Pier, home to a remarkable fleet of historic ships and offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and 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
Experience the 'Crookedest Street in the World' on Lombard Street in San Francisco, a unique and scenic landmark offering stunning views and a testament to innovative urban design.
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 San Francisco's historic Washington Square in North Beach: a vibrant park surrounded by Italian culture, iconic landmarks, and a lively community atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
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 childhood at the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39, where joy and nostalgia meet stunning bay views.
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.
