PIER 39: San Francisco's Playful Waterfront
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront at PIER 39: stunning views, diverse dining, playful sea lions, and family-friendly fun await in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf.
PIER 39, a vibrant waterfront marketplace in San Francisco, offers a memorable experience with stunning bay views, diverse dining, and playful sea lions. Opened in 1978, it has become a major tourist destination, offering a mix of shops, restaurants, attractions, and marine life. The pier's lively atmosphere, combined with its iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge, makes it a must-visit spot for tourists. Whether you're looking to enjoy fresh seafood, shop for unique souvenirs, or watch the famous sea lions, PIER 39 provides a quintessential San Francisco experience. Its location near Fisherman's Wharf, North Beach, and Chinatown makes it easily accessible and a perfect starting point for exploring the city.
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.
- Check the PIER 39 website for special events, discounts, and seasonal activities to enhance your visit.
- Dress in layers, as the weather on the pier can be unpredictable, with cool breezes and fog common even in summer.
- Take advantage of the dining discounts offered with parking validation at participating restaurants to save money.
- Don't miss the sea lions at K-Dock; they are most active during the day, but their numbers can vary depending on the season and food availability.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From anywhere in San Francisco, the most convenient way to reach PIER 39 is via the Muni's historic F-Line streetcar. The F-Line runs along Market Street and The Embarcadero, dropping you off a short walk from the pier's entrance. A single ride fare is $3. Alternatively, several Muni bus lines (8-Bayshore, 30-Stockton, 39-Coit, and 49-Van Ness/Mission) also stop near PIER 39. Check the 511.org website or app for real-time schedules and route planning.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a direct and convenient way to reach PIER 39 from anywhere in San Francisco. A typical ride from downtown San Francisco will cost approximately $16-$20, depending on traffic and distance. The entrance to PIER 39 features a passenger loading and unloading zone for easy access.
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Driving
If driving, PIER 39 is located off The Embarcadero. From the North Bay, take Highway 101 South, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, take the Lombard Street exit, turn left on Van Ness Avenue, right on Bay Street, and left on The Embarcadero. From the South Bay, take Highway 101 North to Highway 80 East, exit at 4th Street, stay left onto Bryant Street, turn left on The Embarcadero. From the East Bay, take Interstate 80 West across the Bay Bridge, take the Harrison Street Exit and stay in the far left lane. PIER 39 has its own 24/7 parking garage directly across the street from the entrance. Weekday parking costs $10/hour (maximum $50/day), and weekends/holidays cost $12/hour (maximum $60/day). Several nearby garages offer alternative parking options, but PIER 39's garage is the most convenient. Dining at participating full-service restaurants can get you one hour of validated parking.
Discover more about PIER 39
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Lions
0.2 km
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.
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
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)
0.6 km
Explore the historic Pier 31 in San Francisco, where maritime heritage meets stunning waterfront views and vibrant local culture.
Lombard St & Kearny St
0.6 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, the world's crookedest street, boasting stunning views and vibrant floral scenery in San Francisco.
Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.8 km
Explore the Briones Rancho Site, a historical landmark in San Francisco that encapsulates California's rich ranching heritage and cultural diversity.
Washington Square
0.9 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.
Filbert Steps
0.9 km
Discover San Francisco's hidden gem: the Filbert Steps, a charming urban hike through lush gardens and historic homes with breathtaking bay views, connecting the Embarcadero to Coit Tower.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
1.0 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.
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
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.
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
Experience the thrill of sailing on San Francisco Bay with ACsailingSF at Pier 39, where adventure meets stunning views of the city's skyline.
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
Explore San Francisco's stunning waterfront and iconic landmarks with Blue & Gold Fleet's unforgettable boat tours and ferry services.
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
Discover the joy of music at the Musical Stairs in San Francisco, a playful attraction where every step creates a unique melody.
Plaza de California
0.2 km
Explore Plaza de California, a vibrant urban oasis in Fisherman's Wharf, where culture, history, and stunning views come together in San Francisco.
Fisherman's Wharf
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, a lively waterfront destination filled with fresh seafood, stunning views, and historic sights.
San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
0.2 km
Experience the magic of childhood at the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39, where joy and nostalgia meet stunning bay views.
Essential places to dine
Eagle Cafe
0.0 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
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
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
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.
Fior d'Italia
0.6 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Surisan
0.7 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
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.
Original Joe's
0.9 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Red Window
1.0 km
Discover Red Window: A delightful European-inspired bar in San Francisco's North Beach offering tapas, cocktails, and a charming beer garden.
Gary Danko
1.0 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Sotto Mare
1.0 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Only In San Francisco
0.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
Under the Golden Gate
0.1 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Enlightenment
0.2 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
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.
Missing Audrey Vintage
0.7 km
Explore the eclectic world of fashion at Missing Audrey Vintage, where unique vintage clothing and accessories await in vibrant North Beach, San Francisco.
Safe Harbor
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Vacation
0.9 km
Explore San Francisco's retro charm at a vintage clothing store filled with unique fashion finds and timeless treasures.
Via Margutta Vintage
0.9 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Via Margutta Vintage in San Francisco's iconic North Beach, where every piece has a story.
WORK
1.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion in the heart of North Beach, San Francisco. Curated collections await every fashion enthusiast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hard Rock Cafe
0.0 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
0.3 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Luau Lounge
0.3 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Red Jack Saloon
0.3 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.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
0.3 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
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.
Sweetie's Art Bar
0.5 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
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.0 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
1.0 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.2 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
1.2 km
Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
