Pier 39
4
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
About
From amazing views and a sea of sea lions to chowder bread bowls and California wines, your visit to San Francisco starts at PIER 39. Kick off your visit by exploring two levels of dining, entertainment, shopping and attractions, all surrounded by unbeatable views of the city and the bay. Take it from the world famous sea lions: a visit to San Francisco starts at The PIER.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Top ways to experience Pier 39
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Fisherman’s Wharf
Packed with family-friendly entertainment, quality hotels, and good food, there's something for everyone at Fisherman's Wharf. From street performers and historic cable cars to art galleries and museums, a postcard-worthy photo is available on every corner. Bring your appetite: seafood lovers will be rewarded with Dungeness crab and sourdough bread bowls, while Ghirardelli Square will satiate anyone's sweet tooth after a day at Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Don't forget to say hello to the adorable sea lions that make this neighborhood a true San Francisco treat.
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Restaurants
3,009 within 3 miles
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1,012 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Ray McGuirePortimao, Portugal368 contributionsPier 39 Favorite StopWe heard about this from brochures and other information and knew we had to stop and see it. As we got off our tour bus and headed down Pier 39 we knew we are getting close could we could smell them. LOL We could also hear them as they were very noisy. We got down to the viewpoint in man there were a lot of them. We took a few snapshots and also a short video to show the folks back home. But definitely recommend this to anybody wanting to see the sea lions up close and also get to see the beautiful Pier 39.We are so glad you enjoyed your time with the beloved sea lions at PIER 39! Until your next visit, watch them anytime with the Sea Lion Webcam on our website.Written June 10, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Written June 6, 2023
- JulesAuckland, New Zealand235 contributionsTouristy but great funPier 39 is an iconic tourist destination in San Fran, but if you accept that it is designed for tourists and take it at face value, you will have a great time. There is a multitude of restaurants to choose from, lots of shops and a couple of rides (including a huge carousel) for the little kids. There are often street performers too. Great for any time of day but we personally loved it at night with all the pretty lights and the fun atmosphere.Thank you for your fantastic review of PIER 39! We appreciate your perspective of accepting it as a tourist destination and enjoying it for what it offers. It's wonderful to hear that you had a great time exploring the multitude of restaurants, shops, and rides available, especially for the little kids. The presence of street performers adds to the lively atmosphere. We're thrilled that you particularly loved the nighttime experience with the beautiful lights and fun atmosphere. Thank you for sharing your positive feedback, and we look forward to welcoming you back to PIER 39 for more memorable moments!Written July 6, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 5, 2023
- Jo PBrough, United Kingdom442 contributionsIconic PierWe visited in the pouring rain so there was no one else around. I'm sure it's normally a busy vibrant place. It was worth visiting just to see the sea lions and it's a must visit if you're in the cityVisiting PIER 39 in the pouring rain must have provided a unique and peaceful experience with fewer crowds. Typically, it is indeed a bustling and vibrant place. We're glad you found it worth visiting, especially to see the charming sea lions. Thank you for recommending it as a must-visit spot for anyone in the city. Rain or shine, PIER 39 offers its own charm and attractions. We appreciate your feedback and hope you have the opportunity to return and experience it in different weather conditions as well.Written July 16, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten July 16, 2023
- Czar EmmanuelManila, Philippines6,300 contributionsVery touristy, but worth-visitingThis is San Francisco's famous tourist hubs, with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, and many more. There are public parking lots in the area, so finding one should not be hard. As to the shops, they sell pretty much the same thing, so check out and compare the prices first before buying whatever you want. Don't forget to see the sea lions that have been visiting SFO bay since 1990 and try the popular clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. 😀You've perfectly described PIER 39, San Francisco's famous tourist hub! It offers a wide array of souvenir shops, restaurants, and more. The adorable sea lions are a must-see, and trying the popular clam chowder in a sourdough bowl is a delicious treat! Thank you for sharing these valuable tips, and we hope you have many more enjoyable experiences at PIER 39!Written July 31, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Traveled with friendsWritten July 29, 2023
- Fraser NGlasgow, United Kingdom237 contributionsPier 39 Not What I was ExpectingFirst Visit to San Francisco and was expecting more from Pier 39! A lot of restaurants and some cheap shops. Not that many restaurants that suited us and all very expensive. Shops tourist stuff and worth a wander but only once! Breeding season for the seals so not many to see on our visit.Visited July 2023Written August 22, 2023
- mccdzynePapamoa, New Zealand531 contributionsOver ratedWas as touristy as I was expecting lotsa flashy op shops selling ticky tacky San Fran souvenirs and clothing spattered with the usual foodie haunts you would expect on a pier in good ole USA. One saving ,maybe two the seals were worth a pic and the mini donuts above average. Gotta admit dud by SF cap , hot sunny day my excuse 😎. Still a stroll along the pier is warranted if just for a peek.Visited August 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten August 24, 2023
- Attila C1 contributionPier 39In order to save money on parking, go to pier 39 parking website and book a parking spot for $20 Otherwise it’s 10$ per hour with maximum $50 for the day. Also It’s much safer in the parking garage than on the street. Take advantage of the gocity pass. Depending on how long you stay there are many options to explore San Francisco 😊Your tips for visiting PIER 39 and making the most of the experience are incredibly helpful! Thank you for sharing these practical suggestions to enhance the PIER 39 experience while exploring San Francisco!Written August 30, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten August 27, 2023
- Ann HYork, United Kingdom2,518 contributionsSealions are a must seePier 39 was not far from our cruise terminal and we had some free time off the ship so decided to have a wander. Two floors of food and drink outlets, shops, entertainment offers something for everyone. The views across the bay are incredible and then the sealions are a must see. You can hear them before you see them - a great experience to see them so closeIt sounds like you had a fantastic time exploring PIER 39! The variety of food, shops, and entertainment options really do cater to all tastes. And the views across the bay and the sea lions are indeed incredible sights to behold. We're delighted you had such a memorable experience during your visit! Thank you for the positive review on TripAdvisor.Written September 20, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 20, 2023
- Anne ESalt Lake City, Utah69 contributionsCrowded but funCrowded and overpriced but lots of activities. Magic shop and juggling performances for the kids, tasty craft beers and local seafood for the adults. Lots of sea lions barking and fishing nearby. Brown pelicans flying overhead.It's fantastic to hear that you love PIER 39! The fun shops, great aquarium, various trips to enjoy, and delicious food options make it a well-rounded and enjoyable destination. Thanks for sharing your positive feelings about this place!Written October 2, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Written October 2, 2023
- njmomongoMaple Shade, New Jersey69 contributionsSo much to see and doYou need more than a day; so much to see and do. See the seals, Alcatraz, good food, souvenirs for everyone, great picture spots. Try to get your souvenirs on the side streets or Chinatown, much cheaper than pier 39. You can take a ferry to islands across the bay and Sausalito.You're absolutely right, PIER 39 offers so much to explore and enjoy that it can take more than a day to fully appreciate everything it has to offer. From the seals to Alcatraz, delicious food, and souvenirs, there's something for everyone. Your insights are valuable for those planning a visit! Thank you very much.Written October 31, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with friendsWritten October 29, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
22,968 reviews
Excellent
10,705
Very good
8,044
Average
3,197
Poor
695
Terrible
329
DocSnarky
Burbank, CA395 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Pier 39 has been a popular tourist attraction forever. In my book, it’s a 15 minute stop where you will pay 3 times normal for everything from a Coke to food. San Francisco isn’t anywhere near the city it used to be, and the Fisherman’s Wharf area has suffered with the rest of the attractions throughout the city. This will most likely be our last visit to the area. If you make it more than 15 minutes rolling your eyes at the prices and junk for sale, you beat me.
Written March 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alfred O
Amsterdam, The Netherlands35 contributions
Jun 2019 • Friends
I can remember when i was doing the Sanfrancisco Operas , I used to come here to buy my Sweatshirts that were Custom Printed for me for my Parts that i performed on stage . These wrre just used for all my reversals . Everyone loved them alot
They read , Super Monk. , Super Guard. , Domingo's Gala . etc . Doing the Opera was Special to me . I would never come to this Pier for anything else . Everything Costs 4 times and more for everything sold at this Pier . No wonder Fishermans Wharf has become a major Rip-off place for tourist these days . Its too bad that its not the way it used to be when i first come to Sanfrancisco back in the 1970's .
They read , Super Monk. , Super Guard. , Domingo's Gala . etc . Doing the Opera was Special to me . I would never come to this Pier for anything else . Everything Costs 4 times and more for everything sold at this Pier . No wonder Fishermans Wharf has become a major Rip-off place for tourist these days . Its too bad that its not the way it used to be when i first come to Sanfrancisco back in the 1970's .
Written May 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear that PIER 39 is not for you. Since, The Pier is currently closed during the shelter-in-place order for safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, we're curious to know when you visited. When we're open again, I'm sure you would be surprised to find many free options available for tourists in addition to the restaurants, shopping and attractions. The sea lions don't charge and there are many other offerings that are unique to San Francisco and the Pier.
Written May 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sht1507
Melbourne, Australia29 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Visiting San Francisco and staying at Fisherman's Wharf we decided to pay a visit to Pier 39 to see the seals. My 11 and 9 year old loved browsing the shops and picked up a great range of San Francisco caps for all their friends at the cheap price of $2.99 each. Lots of great souvenirs at reasonable prices so well worth a visit as all have a lovely atmosphere. At the end of the Pier we easily found the seal colony, which did not disappoint. Basking in the sun and making plenty of noise, all were in easy viewing distance to take some great photographs. There is also a fabulous seal information centre where you can learn more about the seals. A great educational experience. Well worth a visit.
Written January 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for reviewing PIER 39 on TripAdvisor! It is wonderful hearing that you and your son enjoyed your visit to San Francisco and that you had a chance to spend time on our beautiful waterfront. We look forward to seeing you again soon for more fun and sea lion watching!
Written January 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Scott
San Francisco, CA5,353 contributions
Jul 2021 • Solo
Pier 39 is a shopping mall aimed at tourism. Don't worry about prices, because contrary to popular belief, prices are not generally inflated at Pier 39. This is not a shopping mall for locals unless you're coming for some San Francisco Bay Area art or nostalgia. There are a couple decent restaurants, but nothing you can't find anywhere else in the city.
As a San Francisco Bay Area local, I love coming to Pier 39 just to hang out. The term Pier 39 is often synonymous with fisherman's wharf.
As a San Francisco Bay Area local, I love coming to Pier 39 just to hang out. The term Pier 39 is often synonymous with fisherman's wharf.
Written July 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
There is indeed a lot to see and experience at PIER 39. We are glad you enjoyed shopping and dining during your visit. Thank you for reviewing us on TripAdvisor, and we look forward to seeing you again soon.
Written July 18, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David C
Phoenix, AZ17 contributions
Jan 2020
Even on January 18th Pier 39 was busy. However, it has good attractions and is relatively tastefully done. We had dinner at the Chart House which, whilst expensive, has magnificent views. The food was good. The carousel is very colorful in the evening and an entertaining fellow Brit had the crowd in the palm of his hand whilst balancing and juggling. A good experience for us.
Written January 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you enjoyed your visit to PIER 39! Dining at Chart House is always a treat, and we're glad you enjoyed the entertainment as well. We look forward to seeing you again soon for more fun by the bay!
Written January 26, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jwfla
Mount Dora, FL277 contributions
Aug 2021
We were visiting in early August and about 15 seals were there filling up a few floating docks. They said more would be returning near the end of the month after traveling South for breeding season. Can see Alcatraz really good from here
Written November 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with other visitors. That's right ... most of the sea lions do head south during the summer months for breeding season. We're happy to hear you enjoyed the views and we look forward to welcoming you back next time your travels bring you to San Francisco.
Written November 6, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
katethax
Saint Louis, MO82 contributions
Jul 2019
The highlight by far is the sea lions, which is really interesting. I've never seen them outside of a zoo before, so that was really cool. We stood on the edge of the pier and watched them for awhile in spite of the fact that it was the off-season for them and there were only maybe a dozen. The rest of the pier is very touristy and offers little in the way of a feel for the city or its culture. If you've been to Navy Pier in Chicago, you've been to Pier 39 and vice versa. However, it does have a couple of higher-end restaurants that we planned to try and didn't make it to.
Written February 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
morinaga
Singapore509 contributions
Jan 2020
Famous tourist attraction, lots of shops(snack and souvenir) and restaurants. Spotted sea lions resting decks around the pier. Area quiet down around 8.30pm and all homless starts to wonder around after that.
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for reviewing PIER 39 on TripAdvisor! We're so glad you enjoyed the variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the sea lions. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon for more fun by the bay.
Written February 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marcus H
20 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Visited pier 39 and piped into Babba gump restaurant for some cocktails $80 dollars for for cocktails and were informed that the glasses we required were not available, but they gave us a $2.00 dollars discount , also the guy behind the bar looked very stressed with alcohol flying around.
Went into the wipeout bar and grill, a very chilled place. Sat at the bar and watched the world go by without being hassled all the time asking if we wanted to eat.
We found pier 39 a very busy very continental environmental place to visit depletion the food required.
Would recommend a visit
Went into the wipeout bar and grill, a very chilled place. Sat at the bar and watched the world go by without being hassled all the time asking if we wanted to eat.
We found pier 39 a very busy very continental environmental place to visit depletion the food required.
Would recommend a visit
Written August 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for reviewing PIER 39 on TripAdvisor! We glad you enjoyed a chill visit to the Wipeout Bar & Grill and look forward to welcoming you back again soon.
Written August 14, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Icarus4335
Colorado Springs, CO821 contributions
Mar 2022
Tons of stores and restaurants along the pier; there is no way you can't find something to eat and/or buy while here. Most of the stores are very much geared towards tourists and therefore overpriced, but still worth the trip. Depending on which restaurant you go to, the prices can be fair. On the west side of the pier, you can usually get good views of the sea lions. One major drawback is that this place is VERY crowded.
Written March 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are glad you enjoyed shopping, dining, and time with the sea lions during your visit to PIER 39! Thank you for reviewing us on TripAdvisor, and we look forward to seeing you again soon.
Written March 21, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
2311ljk68
London, UK46 contributions
What is the best area to stay while visiting LA.
joel matt romul... m
San Francisco, CA233 contributions
39 is in San Francisco my friend not in LA
Are attractions open if its raining?
Ross G
Edinburgh, UK426 contributions
Yes everything stays open.
Is there parking around there and what is the price?
cassannh
Metropolis, IL14 contributions
I Recommend using public transport on in San Fran or Lyft . It’s too expensive to park anywhere .
dscgolf
Rocklin, CA47 contributions
Conflicting info here but their website seems definitive; only service animals. Seems like the policy changed some time within the last year or so.
DrCDB
Chile541 contributions
Service animals (as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations) are allowed on Alcatraz Island and on Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. Pets or companion animals are not allowed in either location.
Is it worth the time and money?
janet g
Katy, TX724 contributions
We went and didn’t spend any money. It all seemed cheap and gimmicky.
Jonah H
Ontario, Canada45 contributions
We had our car broken into at pier 39 and bags stolen. Thankfully some wonderful people from Sacramento found our bags later and met with us to give them to us. Unfortunately, being Canadian, I have found America to be dirty, harsh, rude, and crime riddled. So my question is whether anyone has had another nice experience to this degree? Or a poor experience to this degree?
djhad83
Ventura, CA4 contributions
Sorry to hear about your situation. It happens everywhere not just in the United States. I recently was there and had all my bags inside my suv, but I am always watching my surrounding and making sure no one could see what was in my vehicle while we were grabbing our coats from the back.
Jonah H
Ontario, Canada45 contributions
We had our car broken into at pier 39 and bags stolen. Thankfully some wonderful people from Sacramento found our bags later and met with us to give them to us. Unfortunately, being Canadian, I have found America to be dirty, harsh, rude, and crime riddled. So my question is whether anyone has had another nice experience to this degree? Or a poor experience to this degree?
Joe M
Lincoln, CA64 contributions
I am sorry that your experience was so bad in San Francisco, but please don't believe that America is Crime riddled or dirty just because one of our tourist areas is. Near any high-tourism area in the world the same can be true. The area around high traffic tourist attractions does not reflect the rest of an area.
I truly am sorry that you had a negative experience though.
Justine S
Manchester, UK1 contribution
When I redeem
My pier 39 attraction pass do I have to go else where to redeem tickets for hop on and off 48 hour pass
Eles W
Bedford, UK125 contributions
For the hop on and hop off bus, you have to go to the counter and redeem the voucher with them directly. And the same with what ever your voucher or deal offers, take copies with you if possible
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Claim your listingPier 39 - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Pier 39
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Pier 39:
- Alcatraz Ticket + Fisherman's Wharf Walking Tour (From $99.00)
- Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour (From $63.00)
- Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise (From $38.00)
- Lucky Tuk Tuk at Night - Private Group San Francisco Sunset or Lights Tour (From $345.00)
- Skip The Bus: San Francisco By Luxury Van Tour (From $99.00)
- Hotels near Pier 39:
- (0.21 mi) Hotel Zephyr San Francisco
- (0.21 mi) Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf
- (0.27 mi) Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf
- (0.39 mi) Kimpton Alton Hotel - Fisherman's Wharf
- (0.23 mi) The Wharf Inn
- Restaurants near Pier 39:
- (0.01 mi) Hard Rock Cafe
- (0.02 mi) Eagle Cafe
- (0.03 mi) Boudin Bakery & Cafe
- (0.03 mi) Biscoff Coffee Corner
- (0.03 mi) Wipeout Bar & Grill
- Attractions near Pier 39:
- (0.01 mi) Hard Rock Cafe
- (0.02 mi) The Flyer
- (0.02 mi) Emerald Lady Boat Ride
- (0.02 mi) Crab Sculpture
- (0.02 mi) Wilder West Urban Western Outfitters