PIER 39
Bustling bayside pier featuring scenic views, sea lion sightings, eateries, shops & entertainment.
PIER 39 is rated 4.6 / 5 from 138,023 Google reviews and sits about 2.1 km (26 min walk) from Embarcadero station.
General overview
About PIER 39
PIER 39 is a waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at San Franciscoโs Fishermanโs Wharf. It is best known for its resident California sea lions, bay views, aquarium, attractions, restaurants, and views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. General admission to the pier is free; individual attractions and activities charge separately.
- Free admission to the pier and public waterfront areas
- California sea lions lounging near the K-Dock sea-lion viewing area
- Views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge
- Aquarium of the Bay and other family-oriented attractions
- Restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, and waterfront photo opportunities
Things to do here
California Sea Lion Viewing
Watch the famous sea lions from the pierโs viewing areas. Their numbers and location can vary seasonally and naturally.
Aquarium of the Bay
An independently operated aquarium featuring San Francisco Bay marine life, underwater tunnels, and interactive exhibits. Admission is separate from pier access.
Bay Cruises and Boat Tours
Several operators in the Fishermanโs Wharf and PIER 39 area offer sightseeing cruises, bay tours, and excursions near Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Tickets are sold separately.
The Flyer / Flight Simulation Attractions
Immersive or motion-based attractions that simulate flying over California and San Francisco. Availability and attraction names may change.
7D Experience
An interactive shooting-game and motion-ride attraction combining 3D effects with gameplay. Separate ticket required.
Mirror Maze and Carnival-Style Attractions
Family-friendly amusement experiences, including mirror-maze and arcade-style attractions, subject to operating schedules.
Shopping and Dining
Browse San Francisco gifts, clothing, specialty shops, candy stores, and waterfront restaurants, with indoor and outdoor seating in many venues.
Public Art and Street Performances
Enjoy views, public spaces, performers, and photo opportunities throughout the pier complex.
PIER 39 is at the northern end of Fishermanโs Wharf and is walkable from the waterfront, North Beach, and many downtown hotels. Public transit, rideshare, taxis, tour buses, bicycles, and nearby parking are available. Allow extra time for traffic and parking.
General pier access does not require a reservation. Reserve popular cruises, Aquarium of the Bay admission, and timed attractions in advance, especially during summer, weekends, and school holidays.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source โ verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
PIER 39 is about 2.1 km (~26 min walk) from Embarcadero station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Hotels ยท 2 min walk
โ 4.4
Ferry Building
Places to visit ยท 5 min walk
โ 4.6
La Mar Cocina Peruana San Francisco
Restaurants ยท 6 min walk
โ 4.5
Kokkari Estiatorio
Restaurants ยท 7 min walk
โ 4.7
Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco
Hotels ยท 9 min walk
โ 4.5
San Francisco Marriott Marquis
Hotels ยท 13 min walk
โ 4.3
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to PIER 39 from Embarcadero station?
PIER 39 is about 2093 m (roughly 26 min walk) from Embarcadero station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is PIER 39 rated?
PIER 39 has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 138,023 reviews.
What's near PIER 39?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Ferry Building, La Mar Cocina Peruana San Francisco.
Is PIER 39 wheelchair accessible?
Yes โ Google lists the following accessibility features for PIER 39: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near PIER 39?
Google lists these parking options near PIER 39: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking, paid garage parking.
Is PIER 39 good for children?
Yes โ Google lists PIER 39 as good for children.
Do I need a ticket to enter PIER 39?
No. Walking onto the pier and visiting its public areas, including the sea-lion viewing area, is generally free. Paid admission applies to attractions, the aquarium, cruises, and other activities.
Where are the sea lions?
They are typically found at the K-Dock area near the western side of the pier. Their numbers can change, and they may occasionally be absent.
How long should I spend at PIER 39?
Plan about two to four hours for a basic visit. Add several hours if visiting the aquarium, dining, shopping extensively, or taking a cruise.
Can I see Alcatraz from PIER 39?
Yes. Alcatraz is visible across the bay from several waterfront viewpoints, although PIER 39 is not the departure point for Alcatraz tours.
Is PIER 39 suitable for children?
Yes. It offers sea lions, an aquarium, interactive attractions, sweets, casual dining, and wide waterfront promenades that are popular with families.
Can I walk from downtown San Francisco?
Yes, though it is a substantial walk from Union Square or the Financial District. Public transit, cable cars, buses, streetcars, taxis, and rideshares can reduce the walking distance.
Is parking available?
Yes. Paid garages and lots are located around Fishermanโs Wharf and PIER 39. Rates, validation, and availability vary, so arriving early is advisable.
Are reservations needed?
Not for general entry. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, cruises, the aquarium, and timed attractions during busy periods.
Are the sea lions there all year?
Sea lions commonly use the docks year-round, but their population and exact location vary. Their presence is wildlife-dependent and cannot be guaranteed.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change โ confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.