Discover Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39: An Insider’s Guide
Beyond the postcard views and steaming platters of fresh seafood, San Francisco’s waterfront has plenty of surprises…if you know where to look.
Step into the heart of the Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can watch fishing boats unload their daily catch, stroll along bustling piers with views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, and savor the aroma of fresh seafood and sourdough bread. Explore historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, browse souvenir shops along Jefferson Street, and enjoy street performers entertaining the crowds. Don’t miss the chance to taste clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, a local specialty that captures the essence of San Francisco’s culinary tradition.These are the details that turn a good trip into an epic San Francisco travel experience.
This is where San Francisco’s maritime heritage meets its ever-evolving culture. While most visitors stick to iconic landmarks, those who explore deeper find a neighborhood where history and modern city life blend in the best way. Let’s dive in.
A Brief History of Fisherman Wharf
Before the crowds and souvenir shops, Fisherman’s Wharf on the San Francisco waterfront was all about the catch of the day. During the Gold Rush, Chinese and Italian immigrants took fishing boats just offshore, selling fresh crab, oysters, and shrimp straight from the docks. Stalls popped up along the waterfront, and the area quickly became the heart of San Francisco’s fishing industry.
That legacy is still visible today. The fishing fleet, passed down through generations, is still active, and you can watch local fishermen at work in “Fish Alley,” unloading their hauls just as they have for more than a century.
How to Explore Fisherman Wharf
If you’re visiting San Francisco with kids, the location of Pier 39 is the best place to start. It’s packed with attractions, restaurants, and shops, plus the famous sea lions that have taken over the docks. From here, it’s an easy walk to Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Park, whale watching tours, and several museums.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more historic side of the Wharf, head west from Pier 39. This part of the neighborhood is home to Hyde Street Pier, historic ships, and maritime exhibits that dive into San Francisco’s seafaring past and make a great spot to explore all days of the year.
Of course, one of the biggest draws of this area is the food. Walk west from Pier 39, and you’ll find some of the best seafood in the city. Grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, fresh Dungeness crab, or a plate of cioppino from one of the Wharf’s iconic food stands or waterfront restaurants.
For a deeper look at the Wharf’s history and hidden gems, a guided tour is a great way to go. Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods takes you across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and Muir Woods, then brings you back to Fisherman’s Wharf to continue to explore at your own pace. Want the full San Francisco experience? You can even add on a visit to Alcatraz!
Book Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods here.
What To Expect When Visiting Fisherman Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most popular spots with first-timers and many-timers for a reason. Crowds are part of the experience—especially around Pier 39, famous for its sea lion colony and top attractions that draw the biggest crowds. But step away from the main pier, and you’ll find quieter areas with waterfront views, historic ships, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
What to Visit While Exploring Fisherman Wharf
Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf is a must when visiting San Francisco. Follow this fun-filled itinerary for breathtaking views, iconic golden gate bridge sightings, and must-visit shopping and dining spots.
SkyStar Ferris Wheel
Cost: $19 per adult
$13 for seniors (65+) and children (12 and under)
Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by season)
Take in sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the city skyline, and the bay from this observation wheel, one of San Francisco’s newest attractions. The enclosed gondolas make it a comfortable ride, whether you’re visiting on a foggy morning or a clear afternoon. It’s easy to see why this is one of the top tourist destinations!
Enjoy Sustainable Seafood at Fog Harbor Fish House
Cost: Seafood entrées start at around $24-$33
Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM daily
This waterfront favorite serves fresh, locally sourced seafood with unbeatable bay views. Known for its 100% sustainable menu, it’s a great place to enjoy a classic clam chowder or a fresh Dungeness crab feast when in the Fisherman’s wharf San Francisco.
Sip a Classic Irish Coffee at Buena Vista
Cost: $12 per Irish coffee
Hours: 8 AM – 2 AM daily
This historic bar is known for perfecting the Irish coffee, making it a must-stop for a warm, whiskey-spiked pick-me-up. With its lively atmosphere and old-school charm, it’s an ideal place to take a break and soak in the history of San Francisco.
Step Back in Time at Musée Mécanique
Cost: Free entry, games cost $0.25 – $1 per play
Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM daily
This hidden gem houses a fascinating collection of antique arcade games, music boxes, and vintage coin-operated machines. From fortune tellers to mechanical boxing matches, it’s a fun throwback to a different era of entertainment.
Learn About Commercial Fishing at the Wharf
Cost: Free to observe; optional guided tours available
Hours: Varies by vendor, but best seen early morning when boats return
Watch fishermen at work and see how the industry has shaped the culture, commercial fishing boats, and economy of the waterfront. You’ll get a firsthand look at the fishing boats unloading their catch for tourists and locals alike, a daily ritual that keeps San Francisco’s seafood scene thriving.
Pier 39
Cost: free
Hours: Attractions 10am – 8pm
Restaurants 11am – 9pm
Shops 10am – 8pm
We’ve mentioned Pier 39 a few times, but it warrants a further description! Pier 39 is a waterfront park, famous for its spectacular views of San Francisco Bay. The pier has many restaurants, eateries, shops, and attractions for you to enjoy! Take a stroll along the waterfront, grab a seat at any of the outdoor dining establishments, and enjoy this walkable area. From here you can see the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz.
Aquarium of the Bay
Cost: Adult $31.75
Kids (4-12) $21.75
Seniors (65+) $26.75
Hours: 11am-6pm
The Aquarium of the Bay is home to more than 20,000 marine animals, such as sharks, rays, octopuses, jellyfish, otters, and many more! You can discover the beauty and diversity of the Northern California aquatic life at Pier 39. If you’re visiting during cold or rainy weather, this is a great way to spend a day.
Pier 45 / Hyde Street Pier
Cost: free
Hours: open daily, 10am- 5pm
Two remaining fully functional ships that were launched during World War II are docked at Pier 45 at the Hyde Street Pier. Admiring the fleet of historic landmark vessels is free, but if you want to board this fleet, a modest admission fee is asked. The park also offers craft programs and a stunning view of landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, a great way to get to know the city and the bay.
Madame Tussauds
Cost: Online price $29.99
Hours: Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, 12- 6pm
Fridays and Saturdays, 12- 7pm
Party with Bay Area legends, A-list icons, and rock royalty at Madame Tussauds located at Pier 39. Another plus, they have an Alcatraz-themed escape room! (the escape room ticket is not included in the price)
Maritime Museum
Cost: free – $15
Hours: Wednesday- Sunday, 10am- 4pm
After troops occupied the building in WWII, the building became home to the San Francisco Maritime Museum. It is also the country’s first-ever Senior Center. Stop by to enjoy the vibrant, colorful murals and the dreamy underwater world! The entree fee depends on the displayed exhibition.
Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze
Cost: (Ages 6 and up) $5
Hours: 10am- 8pm
Get lost in the magic of Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze. Black lights set this labyrinth of mirrors a glow, making you completely disoriented. This cool maze is a perfect attraction on a rainy day!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Cost: Adult $29.99
Kids (5-12) $29.99
Hours: Mondays- Thursdays, 11am- 6pm
Fridays and Saturdays, 10am- 9pm
Sundays, 11am- 7pm
At Ripley’s Believe It or Not! you will discover the strange, the beautiful, and the shocking. Not only do they have incredible eye-popping exhibits, they even have ancient artifacts. This family fun attraction has a collection from shrunken heads to Egyptian mummified foot and artwork. They also have a laser room and a maze; all included in the ticket price!
How To Get To Fisherman’s Wharf
Before you can explore Fisherman’s Wharf, you first have to get there. Luckily, it’s very easy to get to. Here are a couple of options.
Muni transport – It is very easy to take the muni bus to Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are departing from Union Square you can simply take bus 30 to Van Ness + North Point or Jefferson Loop.
Muni’s F-line streetcar, departing from the Ferry Building at the Embarcadero, will also take you directly to the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf.
Cable Car –This tourist attraction is a very fun way to arrive. There are two lines that run from Union Square (Market Street) to Fisherman’s Wharf – the Powell-Hyde line and the Powell-Mason line. They both have a different route so be sure to check which route you want to take before choosing a line!
Dylan’s E-Bike Rentals – Renting a bike to explore is an excellent option if you want to explore at your own pace. You can rent a 7-speed bike or an electric bike at Dylan’s bike shop, which is only a short 5-minute bike ride from North Beach. The roads to Fisherman’s Wharf are mostly bike lanes, but if you are nervous about biking the streets yourself, you could choose to book a private guided bike tour instead. This bike tour will help you explore all the best neighborhoods in San Francisco!
If you would rather go by car, be aware of the high prices for parking! Even if you are lucky enough to find a parking spot, parking in this area is pretty expensive.
Want to see the city and have free time to explore Fisherman’s Wharf? Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods ends in Fisherman’s Wharf, giving you plenty of time to explore before or after your tour of the area’s most notable landmarks and Muir Woods!
Events in Fisherman’s Wharf
Independence Day, 4th of July
Celebrating Independence Day on the 4th of July is an American tradition. This Holiday is celebrated with live music and a spectacular firework show viewed from Aquatic Park, Ghirardelli Square, and Pier 39 every year, and make Fisherman’s Wharf a great spot to celebrate this iconic holiday.
Fleet Week
SF Fleet Week is an annual event that draws thousands of people to the city. It is an exciting event that features the Blue Angels, an airshow over the Bay and Fisherman’s Wharf, and ship tours, all weekend long!
Annual Crab Feed
No visit to San Francisco in January is complete without experiencing the Annual Crab Feed! The annual Crab Feed Event is an extravaganza where you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat crab feast combined with bands, dancing, and other family-fun activities. These feeds diverse benefit causes, such as the needy, pets, vets, and much more. Make sure to make reservations! The feeds tend to sell out quickly.
Fisherman’s Wharf is just the beginning. See the real San Francisco with a tour that connects you to the heart and soul of the city: Dylan’s Famous Tour. We handle the details so you can focus on having an incredible experience.
