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Pier 39: San Francisco's Playful Waterfront Hub
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront at Pier 39: sea lions, stunning views, dining, and family fun await!
Pier 39, a lively entertainment and shopping center in San Francisco, is famous for its stunning views, family-friendly attractions, and the colony of California sea lions that have made the pier their home since 1989. With its blend of shops, restaurants, and attractions, Pier 39 offers a memorable experience for tourists of all ages.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Pier 39
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Beach St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
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Getting There
Public Transport
From anywhere in San Francisco, take the Muni's historic F-Line streetcar or the 8-Bayshore, 30-Stockton, or 39-Coit buses to Pier 39. The F-Line drops you off closest to the pier entrance. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00 ($2.50 with a Clipper card or MuniMobile). A day pass is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.
Walking
From the Ferry Building, Pier 39 is a scenic 1.2-mile walk along The Embarcadero. Head north along the waterfront, enjoying views of the bay. The walk should take approximately 23 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A taxi ride from the Ferry Building to Pier 39 typically costs $10-$12 and takes about 3 minutes, depending on traffic. From Union Square, expect to pay $16-$20 for a 6-minute ride.
Driving
If driving, head towards Fisherman's Wharf and look for the Pier 39 Parking Garage at 175 Beach St, directly across from the pier entrance. Hourly rates are $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, with daily maximums of $50 and $60, respectively. Discounted flat rates are available for online reservations: $25 on weekdays and $30 on weekends. One hour of free validated parking is available when dining at participating full-service restaurants.
Local tips
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Visit the sea lions at K-Dock; the sounds and smells will guide you.
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Check the hours for specific attractions, as they may vary.
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Dine at participating restaurants for validated parking.
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Bring a jacket, as it can be windy and cool.
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Take advantage of the photo opportunities with Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.
Discover more about Pier 39
Pier 39, located along San Francisco's historic waterfront, is a vibrant destination offering a mix of dining, entertainment, and shopping. Opened in 1978, the pier quickly became a popular spot, drawing visitors with its unique atmosphere and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge.
One of Pier 39's most famous attractions is the colony of California sea lions that reside on the docks. These playful marine mammals began gathering at Pier 39 in September 1989, and their numbers have grown significantly over the years. Visitors can observe the sea lions from viewing platforms and learn about their behavior from on-site naturalists.
In addition to the sea lions, Pier 39 features a variety of attractions, including the Aquarium of the Bay, a two-story carousel, street performances, and virtual 3D rides. The pier also offers numerous shops and restaurants, serving everything from fresh seafood to classic San Francisco treats. Bay cruises depart from Pier 39, providing visitors with the opportunity to see the city from the water.
Whether you're interested in marine life, shopping, dining, or simply taking in the sights, Pier 39 offers something for everyone. Its central location and easy accessibility make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring San Francisco.
A brief summary to Pier 39
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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