Pier 39, Oakland Travel Guide

Experience San Francisco's waterfront charm at Pier 39: sea lions, stunning views, dining, and family fun await!

Pier 39, a bustling waterfront marketplace in San Francisco, offers stunning views, dining, shopping, and entertainment. It's famous for its playful sea lions and family-friendly attractions, making it a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Pier 39

Beach St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pier 39.

Visit during the week or off-season for fewer crowds.
Check the sea lion webcam before your visit to see how many are present.
Dine at a participating restaurant for validated parking.
Take a bay cruise for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
Arrive by late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the attractions before they close.

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Explore Pier 39 on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pier 39, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From downtown San Francisco, take the F-Line streetcar directly to Pier 39. The streetcar stops at The Embarcadero & Stockton St. A single ride costs $3 for adults. Alternatively, several MUNI bus lines, including the 8, 39, and 47, also serve the pier.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Pier 39. A taxi from downtown San Francisco to Pier 39 typically costs between $16 and $20 and takes approximately 6 minutes. From San Francisco International Airport (SFO), a taxi to Pier 39 will cost around $40.
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 are $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, with daily maximums of $50 and $60, respectively. A special $40/day rate is offered Monday–Thursday for vehicles entering after 3:00 PM and exiting before 10:00 AM. One hour of free validated parking is available at the Pier 39 Garage for visitors who dine at participating full-service restaurants.
Ferry

The Blue & Gold Fleet and other ferry services operate from various locations around the Bay Area, including Sausalito, Oakland, and Alameda, to Pier 39. From the Ferry Building, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 8 minutes to Pier 39. Ferry fares vary depending on the origin and destination.

Discover more about Pier 39

Pier 39, located along the historic San Francisco waterfront, is a vibrant and bustling destination offering a mix of dining, entertainment, shopping, and stunning views. Opened in 1978, the pier has become one of San Francisco's most visited attractions, drawing both locals and tourists alike.The pier is perhaps best known for its colony of California sea lions, who began gathering on the docks in September 1989. These playful pinnipeds have become a major attraction, with visitors flocking to K-Dock to observe their antics. The sea lions' population fluctuates throughout the year, with the largest numbers typically present from July through May.Beyond the sea lions, Pier 39 offers a wide array of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore the Aquarium of the Bay, featuring diverse marine life from the San Francisco Bay. The pier also boasts a two-story Venetian carousel, a mirror maze, a 7D ride experience, and musical stairs. Bay cruises, whale watching tours, and sailing charters depart from Pier 39, providing opportunities to experience the city from the water.Dining options abound, with numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and other cuisines. Many restaurants offer views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline. Pier 39 also features a variety of shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and local goods. Street performers and live shows add to the lively atmosphere, ensuring there's always something to see and do.