The waters of San Francisco Bay lure tourists and locals to run alongside the shore on the Embarcadero and take in the hustle and bustle of Pier 39. Visitors approaching from the Fisherman's Wharf side will encounter street performers and curious crowds on the Embarcadero leading to Pier 39. The pier has shopping, dining and entertainment choices to suit all family members.
Meet the Locals
Sea lions sun themselves in large groups behind Pier 39. Walk past the shops through the middle pathway to get to these aquatic wonders. You can gaze at the creatures in their natural habitat, gently bouncing on floating platforms in choppy bay waters. Take pictures with friends and family, then enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge and Alcatraz as sailboats glide by.
Board a Cruise
Several companies offer bay cruises from Pier 39. The Blue and Gold Fleet tours the bay by taking visitors past Pier 39's barking sea lions, gliding along the waterfront to the Golden Gate Bridge, then returning to circle Alcatraz Island. San Francisco guests can also buy tickets at Pier 39 for a 30-minute ferry ride to Sausalito, located in the north bay.
Grab a Bite
Try one of Boudin bakery's sourdough bread bowls filled with clam chowder, a local favorite, at Pier 39. If you are looking for a more substantial meal, there are a handful of sit-down seafood restaurants to enjoy. For a more elegant and exclusive meal, Forbes Island offers reservation-only fine dining on a floating, man-made island a 5-minute boat ride from Pier 39.
Take a Stroll
Enjoy the salty bay air as you walk along Pier 39's two levels of decks. Dozens of stores selling everything from souvenir magnets and saltwater taffy to wacky socks greet you along the way. There's also plenty of people watching opportunities as the pier is a popular destination for students and tourists.
Attractions
Families and friends can enjoy finding their way out of Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze on the second level of Pier 39. For visitors wanting to learn more about marine life, the Aquarium of the Bay features sharks, rays, octopuses, jellies and thousands more animals. Guests of all ages weighing between 30 and 230 pounds can hop on Frequent Flyers' bungee trampoline and bounce up to 20 feet in the air.
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