Discover the Wonders of the Aquarium of the Bay
Explore the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco for a captivating experience with marine life and stunning underwater exhibits.
The Aquarium of the Bay, located at Pier 39 in San Francisco, offers an immersive experience into the aquatic world. Visitors can explore diverse marine life, walk through mesmerizing underwater tunnels, and witness playful sea otters and sharks up close, making it a must-visit destination for families and ocean enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Aquarium of the Bay
- PIER 39 The Embarcadero &, Beach St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, CA, 94133, US
- +1415-623-5300
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the schedule for animal feedings and educational talks to enhance your visit.
- Purchase tickets online in advance for potential discounts and to skip the line.
- Don't miss the sea otter exhibit; they are playful and incredibly entertaining.
- Plan to spend at least two to three hours to fully explore all exhibits and activities.
Getting There
-
Public Transit - Caltrain
Start by heading to the San Mateo Caltrain Station located at 200 E 4th Ave. From there, take a southbound Caltrain towards San Francisco. After about 30 minutes, disembark at the 4th and King Station in San Francisco. Once you exit the station, look for the Muni T line (light rail) which will take you directly towards Fisherman's Wharf. Get off at the Embarcadero & Brannan stop. From there, it's a short walk to PIER 39, where the Aquarium of the Bay is located.
-
Bus
Begin your journey at the San Mateo Transit Center, which is located at 200 W 2nd Ave. Board the SamTrans bus route 292 towards San Francisco. The ride will take approximately 45 minutes. Get off at the stop at Embarcadero & Beach Street. From there, PIER 39 is just a two-minute walk away. Follow Beach Street towards the waterfront, and you will see PIER 39 ahead.
-
Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops in San Mateo. Head towards the Bay Trail and follow it northward. This scenic route will take you through parks and along the waterfront. Continue cycling until you reach the San Francisco Bay area. Once you get to the Embarcadero, follow the signs to PIER 39. The ride can take about an hour, depending on your pace.
-
Walking
For an adventurous option, you can walk to the San Mateo Caltrain Station, and then proceed as described in the Public Transit - Caltrain section. Alternatively, if you're closer to the downtown area of San Mateo, you can take a leisurely stroll to the nearby bus stops or bike rental locations to start your journey towards San Francisco.
Discover more about Aquarium of the Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Lions
0.3 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
0.4 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
Pier 31 (1917)
0.5 km
Explore the historic Pier 31 in San Francisco, where maritime heritage meets stunning waterfront views and vibrant local culture.
Fisherman's Wharf
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf, where fresh seafood, historic attractions, and lively entertainment await in San Francisco.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.6 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.
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.
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.
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.
One Lombard Street
0.8 km
Explore One Lombard Street, a historical landmark in San Francisco that showcases the city’s architectural splendor and rich heritage.
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 Washington Square, a beautiful city park in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for relaxation, culture, and scenic views.
Filbert Steps
0.9 km
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
Explore the rich maritime history of San Francisco at the 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark, a key attraction in the Maritime National Historical Park.
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.
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.
PIER 39
0.0 km
Discover the unforgettable blend of shopping, dining, and sea life at PIER 39, a top tourist attraction in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
ACsailingSF
0.0 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.
Plaza de California
0.1 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.
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
Experience the enchanting Musical Stairs in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf, where art meets music in an interactive climb for all ages.
San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
0.3 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
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.
Eagle Cafe
0.1 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
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
0.5 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.5 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
0.9 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
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.
Capurro's Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
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.
Sotto Mare
1.0 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Gary Danko
1.0 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Only In San Francisco
0.1 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
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 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)
0.5 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
0.9 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.
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.
Luau Lounge
0.3 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
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.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.4 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.
