Overview
Pier 39 is a bustling waterfront shopping center and amusement park located on the Embarcadero in San Francisco. It's known for its beautiful views of the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and its colony of sea lions.
Pier 39 is a popular tourist attraction and a significant part of San Francisco's waterfront history and culture.
Location
Address
The Embarcadero, San Francisco, California
Neighborhood: Fisherman's Wharf
Coordinates
37.808900, -122.409900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better chances to see sea lions
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild and pleasant
- • cherry blossoms
- • sea lion pupping season
summer
warm and sunny
- • outdoor concerts
- • fireworks
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
- • wine tasting events
winter
cold and foggy
- • holiday lights
- • ice skating
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check sea lion status
- Book popular restaurants ahead
- Be prepared for crowds
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • crowds can be overwhelming
- • slippery surfaces near water
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, cash
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, inappropriate clothing for dining
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks for restaurants, same day for attractions
- • official website or third-party platforms like TripAdvisor
- • varies by restaurant/attraction, usually 24 hours
- • available for popular attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Pier 39 App
Size: 35 MB
Features: Map of the pier, Sea lion cam, Restaurant reservations, Event listings, Shopping directory
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Restaurants, Shops
Charging Stations: Restaurants, Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance: 22 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3-5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Nostalgic, iconic San Francisco experience
Historical Significance: Part of the historic San Francisco waterfront, developed in the 1970s
Insider Tips
- Free entry, but some attractions require tickets
- Best views of the Bay from the upper levels
- Weekday visits are less crowded
Local Recommendations
- • Try clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
- • Visit nearby Ghirardelli Square
- • Ask staff for hidden gem shops
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Sea Lion Center
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide shots of the sea lions and Bay
Result: Iconic Pier 39 photo
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Aquarium of the Bay
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 7 min
Type: Aquarium
Ghirardelli Square
Distance: 0.8 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historic Site
Alcatraz Island
Distance: 2 km
Walking: not walkable (ferry required)
Type: Historic Site
Fisherman's Wharf
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 5 min
Type: Tourist Area
North Beach
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 35 min
Type: Neighborhood
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Check the sea lion cam before visiting"
- "Try the clam chowder"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
72
Rating
4.2 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free to enter)