Pier 39 in San Francisco

What are the highlights of Pier 39?

Although Pier 39 is essentially a huge shopping centre, fantastic entertainment abounds at the waterfront complex. Travel through tunnels on a moving walkway and discover the magical underwater world at the Aquarium of the Bay. The aquarium exhibits local marine life, and you can see up close leopard sharks, sea bass, sea jellies, anemones, and river otters among many other creatures.

For free, you can watch hundreds of enormous sea lions bark and slither about at the end of the Pier. If you want to observe the mammals without crowds, walk next door to Pier 41. You won’t be as close, but there’ll be far fewer people. In summer, the sea lions migrate south to breed, but they return in August. 

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the thrilling 7D rollercoaster and laser-blasting experience at the DarkRide theatre; the bungee trampoline at Frequent Flyers; and the San Francisco Carousel that was handmade and painted in Italy.

What to shop and eat at Pier 39?

If buying gifts and souvenirs is what you’re after, Pier 39 offers excellent retail options. There are over 50 unique stores selling everything from souvenirs and collectables to sports gear and memorabilia to jewellery and clothing.

You can indulge in delectable treats at Chocolate Heaven, purchase magic-learning manuals from Houdini’s Magic Shop, and buy items designed especially for left-handed folk from Lefty’s San Francisco. The shops are spread out over 2 levels and offer superb water views at every turn.

When you need a break from shopping, there are plenty of eateries to choose from. The menus at the 14 full-service restaurants vary and include fresh seafood dishes, burgers, pizza, sushi, salads, and more. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy a 2-hour cruise aboard Wine Therapy, the Bay’s only floating wine-tasting room. 

Good to know about Pier 39 

Nearby Pier 39 are 3 other attractions worth visiting. North Beach is a lively neighbourhood that’s home to Little Italy and the Coit Tower offering 360-degree city views. San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest of its kind in North America. It is a fantastic place to try authentic Chinese food, browse traditional stores and soak up the atmosphere of the colourful streets and markets. 

Lastly, head to The Embarcadero and take an afternoon stroll along the 3-mile-long pathway that stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf to China Basin. Along the way, you’ll find public art installations and benches boasting picturesque bay views.  

If you want information, guidebooks and maps of San Francisco, head to the Official California Welcome Center on level 2 of Pier 39. They provide discount coupons for many attractions and restaurants on the Pier, as well as luggage storage and stroller and wheelchair rental.

You can reach Pier 39 with the historic F-line streetcar from Market Street and the Ferry Building or the regular 8X, 39 or 47 bus. Alternatively, take the Powell-Mason cable car from Union Square or Chinatown.