Pier 39 Reviews

There doesn’t seem to be as many seals as there used to be but there are still plenty there. Some just lay around on the docks but there are ways a few frisky ones to entertain the crowd. It does get crowded but wait your turn to see them, it is definitely worth it.

While on a business trip, I decided to explore the area and stumbled upon Pier 39. I really enjoyed myself as there is something for everyone.

There’s a Christmas store, reasonably priced souvenir shops, jewelry stores, and an abundance of food options.

The view from the pier is absolutely breathtaking.

Plan to spend some time here to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

During our 4 day visit we ate at a number of venues in this precinct. Do not visit here with an expectation of culinary delights. Far from it in fact. I am sure there is a hidden gem amongst the rubble, however I did not experience it. Enjoy the seals frollicking or ask them, they may know where to eat. In fact a lot of the locals were of similar proportion to them. I. Fact nothing in SF stood out as decent eating.

We came specifically to see the Sea Lions and try the famous bread bowls at Boudin's. The sea lions did not disappoint. The bread bowl was delicious but we wish we had filled it with something other than the clam chowder. It was strong and uneatable.

It was a 5 minute walk from our hotel there’s plenty to do and see nice restaurants and some decent shops selling souvenirs (that weren’t tacky) and decent sweatshirts and T-shirts.
Good views of the Golden Gate Bridge Bay Bridge and Alcatraz.
There was a good saxophone player plus other musicians and plenty of street food available.
The sea Lions were a great watch too.
Nice and relaxing after the Hustle and Bustle of New York.

This is a place that I can return to over and over again. It's always fun and exciting while feeling safe. Everything is walkable. There are activities for all ages. Love the sealions. Crowds are manageable.

Lots to see and do around the Pier and you can find tours and activities all around this area. Worth a few hours to wander around.

This was not the first time I had been to Pier 39 as I used to live in the Bay Area back in 2008-2011. This visit was to get dinner on the Pier with a colleague whilst on a business trip to San Francisco. The Pier has places to eat, drink and shop, some of which is quite tacky in terms of Tourist Gift Shops. The restaurant we ate in was very good and it was nice to walk along the pier to the end after dinner, although by this time most things were closed or closing. We parked in the Pier 39 Parking Garage which was $10 an hour to park!! All in all Pier 39 is worth a visit but it is not a place that I would say is much more exciting than 'Average'.

Highly, highly touristy, but you’d be amiss not to walk around here a little bit. The water views are one-of-a-kind, and many yummy food choices are at your disposal. San Francisco’s piers are some of the safest places in the city, so no worries about safety, at least during the day. I found it to be pretty clean as well. From Pier 39, you can also take ferries to Alcatraz or marine animal tours if you so desire.

The atmosphere is really cozy with lots to see and experience. And then you just have to experience the sea lions - it's crazy how many there are!

Pier 39 in San Francisco is a must-see when visiting the city. Although there are a bit too many souvenir shops, which can make the selection a bit monotonous, there are plenty of opportunities to get something to eat. But remember your wallet, it's a bit more expensive than most places.

Saw the sealions 5 years ago in the morning and today in the afternoon. This is like a free zoo, where you see them in their “natural habitat”

It is a lot of fun to just walk around and take in the atmosphere. Seeing the sea lions just hanging out was the best part - they were so interesting and made loud honking noises. The pier was crowded, some homeless people begging but overall I did feel safe. Everything is extremely overpriced - a small bottle of water is $4.25 - insane prices. Some free small museums worth a visit.

San Francisco's Pier 39 encompasses the Wharf, waterfront, marina, Embarkadero, multiple restaurants, the ferry to Alcatraz, Aquarius, and barking sea lions. Accessible from everywhere via the trolleys and buses, there's plentiful parking garages every few blocks also. The huge market is the major attraction bookended by tents of local artisans, and performers. Eat, drink, shop, explore the Pier is an all day adventure.

Very nice and cozy to see the animals busy. They make noises and they are very mobile. Good to look at.

A very busy area with lots of restaurants and things going on. Be aware that restaurants close at 9.00 pm.

A cult place in San Francisco where you can observe wolffish quite closely. The area is very touristy so avoid hours of influence, especially on weekends.
The place has many restaurants and shops including the shop of Alcatraz prison.

Beautiful shopping center in San Francisco that visited on a beautiful day and full of sun as today is even more pleasant. Restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, Christmas shop, rides and.... sea lions in perpetual siesta in the bay....

The lobsters tails were burnt and the white wine glass was tasteless and anonymous. Really disappointing.

Absolutely not to be missed, it is a very important meeting point for San Francisco. In the evening people meet there to visit the shops and eat in the many restaurants present

Great safe feeling large pier area with lots of souvenir shops mostly selling similar stuff, restaurants and views of the bay. However the absolute best bit is watching the sea lions basking on the pontoons. They’re very vocal and an absolute joy to watch. The odd one is also found on a boat pontoon away from the others clearly enjoying some alone time!

Sea lions. Very cute, loud and stinky. Very much worth the visit! There are a lot of shops and restaurants along the pier that make this an interesting few hours visit.

We dropped by here to see the sea lions and were not disappointed. There were at least 100 sea lions at the end of the pier with plenty of places to view them.

Aside from sea lions, the pier had plenty of other things including souvenir stores, restaurants, arcades, and candy stores. The place was quite busy during our visit and packed with plenty of other tourists. There is a parking lot across from the pier connected via a pedestrian bridge that was $10/hour.

The sealions are a must-see! But in truth pier 39 is more than just a tourist attraction, its a bustling heart of San Francisco's fishing industry infused with attractions and restaurants to keep tourists coming by. 9.0/10.0

A lively waterfront pier with shops, bars and restaurants and a great beachy feel. The shops tend to sell the typical tourist t-shirts, sweatshirt/hoodies, baseball caps etc but there are a few more local arts and craft stores with goods not coming in from China or Indonesia. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, cafe's and speciality food outlets to enjoy. It has a really buzzing, vibrant feel to the place, even tho' it was quite a cold, but sunny day. It's really close walking distant to the Cruise ports so very easy to step off ship and find some local life.

It's gone downhill...............

Since George Floyd Riots, COVID and "defund the police"........the place has gone downhill and is dirty, seedy, and poorly managed.

Was just there.......Waited in line 15 minutes to use the mens public bathroom.......

I was there in 2010 and it was nice. Not anymore....

There is no police presence and the pier area is now dirty, smelly, noisy and mostly attended by younger people who don't mind the nastiness of this place. Cars driving by blasting music and revving engines.....randon rappers blasting their music, random street performers (not even talented) performing stupid nonsense exhibitions all over the place. Smells of human feces and urine and no police anywhere to be found.

This is a liberal democrat city and they defunded the police (to appease the rioters) and now it's a lawless shi*hole......

A fun, scenic spot for an outdoor walk with plenty of shops and food options to explore. Be sure to arrive after 10 a.m., as most stores open then, and there’s not much available earlier. One of the highlights is the chance to see sea lions swimming or sunbathing nearby, which adds a unique touch to the experience. Overall, it’s a lively place to enjoy San Francisco’s waterfront!

Having gone to SF a long time ago, this visit was extremely disappointing. I probably won't come to this place again. The Maritime Museum was very disappointing. Fisherman's Wharf is so commercialized that it's nothing more than a bunch of restaurants and cheap souvenir shops. How sad it's become.

Had a fantastic time at pier 39. Yes, it can be expensive, but only if you let it. We had a great breakfast at Eagle Cafe. Lots of shopping. Loved watching the sea lions. We got there mid morning, I would recommend this time as when we'd finally had enough, late afternoon, it was really quite busy.

Seals are awesome! Loved watching them. Is the pier a cheesy tourist spot? Absolutely. Worth a visit however. Lots to shop and look at. Carousel for the littles. We visited twice. At night, it was quiet and I felt self but kept my head on a swivel. During the day, much busier, all tourists. Walked back to our hotel from here without incident.

An unexpected and surprising first taste of America, a must for every traveler. Tourist, but experience to do,!beautiful view on alcatraz.

This is a place that has been ruined by over tourism and is filled with mostly made in China type stuff.
On the plus side there is security so I felt very safe and it was clean and kept up.
There is also a elevator to see the shops and restaurants on the upper level if you have mobility issues which was very helpful.
All in ll I'd say it is worth a stop but not a long one.

Even the rain didn't spoil this trip. I have been here many times and always love going back. I especially like the aquarium and watching the seals and other marine life.

Over busy.
Over crowded.
Over priced, so over priced!
Over smelly.
Over tacky.
Over loud.
Over rated
There are far nicer areas in San Francisco
$7.25 for single scoop ice cream. Over $8.25 fire a small scoop at B&Jerrys, doesn't say a lot for their pricing ethics

If you go to San Francisco you just have to visit here. Plenty of shopping for the Wife and places to eat. Also of course the famous sea lion colony. Its a great place to wander while waiting for your bay cruise or Alcatraz visit

Pier 39 is an iconic tourist destination in San Fran, but if you accept that it is designed for tourists and take it at face value, you will have a great time. There is a multitude of restaurants to choose from, lots of shops and a couple of rides (including a huge carousel) for the little kids. There are often street performers too. Great for any time of day but we personally loved it at night with all the pretty lights and the fun atmosphere.

Was as touristy as I was expecting lotsa flashy op shops selling ticky tacky San Fran souvenirs and clothing spattered with the usual foodie haunts you would expect on a pier in good ole USA. One saving ,maybe two the seals were worth a pic and the mini donuts above average. Gotta admit dud by SF cap , hot sunny day my excuse 😎. Still a stroll along the pier is warranted if just for a peek.

Great side trip if you are in the downtown SF area, especially when the weather is nice. Unsurprisingly touristy, but still lots of shops, restaurants, and entertainment in the area. Reminds me of Seattle's wharf.

One can easily spend 2-4 hours at Pier 39 enjoying views (from afar) of Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge, sea lions up-close lying on pontoons and Alcatraz; dining and shopping.

Other than views, Pier 39 comprises many restaurants and eateries including the San Fran Hard Rock Cafe and souvenir shops. Generally pricing for souvenirs are comparable within Pier 39, however we later found out that if you venture into Chinatown (around Clay St), you will find more souvenir shops there that sell similar items for slightly cheaper prices. Pier 39 is some 30 mins stroll from Chinatown Clay St; or also accessible via the Hop-on Hop-off bus.

Pier 39 also has a 'performing' stage for street performers right at the end of the pier walk, with some benches available for seating. You can also stand on the second level of the pier (up a flight of stairs) to view the free performances.

Definitely a place to visit!

There is a certain charm in the pier 39, for some reason coming here even though years apart there is a certain charm and vibe. We took the cruise out from pier 27 to Alaska, so decided to visit pier 39 again, lots to see and watching sea lions in the pier is just a must, lots of shops here as well …. You name it they got it here…… ferris wheels, fisherman wharf is definitely worth the visit.

There are so many different shops you can explore - my family definitely overdid the shopping! The food there is great, and stop by to see the sea lions as well.

Loved our visit!! There is so much to see and do in one area! If you're looking for some great souvenir stores, this place is a must!!! I collect Christmas ornaments from every place I go and bam! they had a Christmas store full of goodies! There are plenty of places to eat as well! If your in San Francisc, the Pier 39 is a must to visit!!

This is primarily a tourist area so if you’re looking for authentic San Francisco dining, look elsewhere. Restaurants here can get quite busy though there is a mix of table and quick service. There are multiple shops, small amusements, and the famous seals.

Note - seal viewing ebbs and flows based on the season, but even when they’re not piled up on the barges you can many times spot them in the water.

This is actually a bit of a classic tourist trap. Super busy, lots of expensive restaurants and shops, of course it is part of San Francisco, but certainly not our thing. The sea lions are of course the most famous attraction, you must have seen them.

Very cool space, with lots of restaurant and shopping options and a beautiful view of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz. Worth the visit!

If I’m ever having a bad or sad day, I make the three block trip down to Pier 39 to horses fed by the tourist.

How can you not feel romantic about San Francisco after watching the scene.

Definitely among the places to see in San Francisco: a mixture of amusement park with shops and restaurant is the active art of beached sea lions on display.

We loved wandering Pier 39!

From some cute little stores, fantastic views of The Rock and the Golden Gate Bridge (if it's sunny) it's a great spot to wander and have a drink.

Seeing the Sea Lions at k-dock is definitely a highlight - they are so entertaining!

Of course it is iconic and we always visit when in Frisco.
Great during the day with views of the Golden gate, Alcatraz and Saucalito
and perfect at night to wander around and to eat or drink.
The Sea Lions are loved by all of course

All very beautiful but inaccessible for an average wallet let's say for parking they ask for a week's salary .. then we talk about Greece here you can't find anywhere parking to see the attractions except you give the lig 50 dollars ...

We visited in the pouring rain so there was no one else around. I'm sure it's normally a busy vibrant place.
It was worth visiting just to see the sea lions and it's a must visit if you're in the city

Beautiful Pier with lots of attractions and places to eat. Lovely atmosphere, great food an things to see. The sea lions are delightful and I could be there watching them for hours.

Crowded, expensive and commercial. Kind of what I picture Disneyland would be like. The sea lions hanging out were the highlight but even that was a couple of minutes. I was out for a long walk so it met my expectations as somewhere to let my eyes wander. But not much more.

Pier 39 is best known for viewing sea lions, and there are usually some to many about depending on time of year. It's a nice walk up/down the Embarcadero as it's somewhat in the center and lots of shops and food options abound.

Crowded and overpriced but lots of activities. Magic shop and juggling performances for the kids, tasty craft beers and local seafood for the adults. Lots of sea lions barking and fishing nearby. Brown pelicans flying overhead.

Good place for seafood however there were not many things to do. Unfortunately, I have not seen sea lions, my bad luck.

This review is regarding Valaho's Orchard fruit and veg stand in Pier 39.

Today, I visited this stand and bought some fruit for my daughter and her friend. The man serving us at the register was a very mean person. In short, he told my daughter that she wasn't pretty when he complemented her little friend and said "I wasn't talking about you, I was talking about her. Maybe if you eat up all your fruit then you will be one day." This made her cry and was one of the meanest things to do to an innocent little 8 year old girl. I went back without my daughter and confronted him. He offered no apology. Comments like that stick with people for life and he did a lot of harm today to a very lovely, kind girl. I will never shop here again.

This is a pier. Yep that's it. It's a pier. Same as pier 38 and pier 40. It's a pier. Nothing to see here. Move on !! Dont waste more than 5 minutes here

This dock is just fantastic. The sea lions give us a great show. Lots of shops and restaurants, a little expensive it must be admitted.

Beautiful place on the pier, you can see the free seams sunbathing, there are also a lot of shops maybe for gift ideas

One of the many piers in San Francisco - but special! Many excellent restaurants (my tip: Bubba Gump Shrimp Company at the end of Pier 39 with fantastic views of Alcatraz and the other piers including sea lions), many (souvenir) shops and a very own atmosphere, especially in the evening.

I think it's the most beautiful place in San Francisco ever and the sea lions are a plus. It's really lovely and enjoyable

Pier 39 is not only the most famous jetty, perhaps, owr San Francisco. It's also a place where there's so much to shop for, we're talking about San Francisco souvenirs that can only be found here. You will get to visit the jetty, and lots of stalls, great items and reviews. You will definitely love this place.

For me, it is the most picturesque place in San Francisco.
It is full of businesses, shops and places to eat. It ends where there is a big carousel and then the bay.
There are always a lot of people but it is a very nice walk.

It’s a beautiful rocking place, a must go if you are visiting San Francisco. A happening place where one gets absolutely absorbed

My husband and I visited Pier 39 while visiting San Francisco on a cruise ship It’s a fun and safe place to visit Full of restaurants shops cookie shops and ice cream what more can you ask for Even the famous sea lions A must do

Ultra touristy but a great vibe and some decent shops. Loved seeing the Sea Lions and buying gifts for folks back home.

Visited the Pier a couple of times during our stay.
A must see, so you can tick if off your list of places in San Francisco.
The sea lions were there but they get turfed off the Pier every now and then, so be patient
All the shops and food places are very expensive, though, as is most of San Francisco
Go early to escape the crowds

We took in Fisherman's wharf during our vacation in the Bay Area. We enjoyed a lot of bakeries, restaurants, and museums in the area and then we headed to Pier 39. We were very disappointed.

Our first obstacle was a bunch of street vendors who were cooking on small grills. It didn't look very safe to eat and you had to get through them to get to Pier 39.

The pier has a lot of chain restaurants and the shops weren't that special to us. Our ice cream stop was disappointing and we didn't find anything that was very interesting. It is much better to just take a seat periodically along the wharf and people-watch. Hit Boudin Bakery and Scoma's for food and then visit the Visitors Center and Maritime Musueum.

We were a couple at Pier 39 on a beautiful, sunny day in March. It wasn't particularly busy and you could see a lot of sea lions. There were probably 30-40 animals there, warming themselves in the spring sun. It was really worth seeing and a beautiful experience. There is a strong wind there, so you should think about warm clothing even when it's sunny and 15 degrees.

Lots of people taking photos, selfies or videos of 4 pontoons overloaded with sea lions. Difficult to find a place to view the sea lions due to the mass of people against the railings.
Good restaurants along the pier but nothing really special.

A classic case of been there, done that but won't do it again.

Definitely Fisherman's Wharf's most touristic spot.
The pier offers several eateries, shops, and of course - the mandatory viewing point of the sea lion colony.
Avoid after dark hours.

Area for tourists, well organized with the presence of various shops and bars, restaurants, I chose Bubba Gamp (my favorite film is Forrest Gamp), here you can also shop for souvenirs at any price (low, always high for us or high ) but at least good quality, even if a lot of it comes from China. It feels like you're walking along an old wooden pier.

I’m glad we went here. Seeing the sea lions is a must. There is also street entertainment and lots of restaurants. Worth a visit.

Very nice walk, the place is very appreciable. There is a lot of restaurant and shop (souvenir or not). Very lively

We did a return trip to Pier 39. We've been there many times. The sea lions was the primary reason for our visit as they are at a 15 year high in the number you can see from the ara.

The Pier was bustling with activity and hasn’t changed much since my childhood. It’s still filled with overpriced shops and gimmicks, but the sea lions remain a delightful highlight. The Christmas tree, with its programmed light show, was a fun and festive touch.

I traveled here in the summertime of last year. Nothin to dislike about this place. I liked hearing the sounds the seals made.

A must see. Decent shops and restaurants on a quaint pier area. Also could have spent hours watching sealions. Nice atmosphere.

Lots of shops, lots of crowds, sea lions sunbathing. If you want to rest a little from the tourist escarpments you can stop here, the temple of tourist shopping.

Our recent West Coast tour began with a flight to San Francisco, followed by a stop at Pier 39, on our way out of San Francisco. This was a lunch and shopping stop for our tour group. I’d been there once before, but to me, an introvert, it was really kind of overwhelming. It’s noisy and boisterous, with a carnival like atmosphere—I realize that to many, that is a plus. There are tons of choices for food, entertainment (including a carousel & daily shows), and shopping with every kind of shop imaginable. It’s so touristy, so everything is predictably expensive. And of course, there are the floating platforms filled with sea lions that attract quite a crowd. We were able to find food without any trouble. We enjoyed people-watching, and could see that many were having a great time.

Pier 39 is full of restaurants bars , fast food joints and amusements. Lots of junk jewellery for same. The seals are good to see as is the view of the bay.

Tons of Tourists, a mix of local and chain shopping and a bunch of food options. People watching is the sport here, along with grabbing a view of the sea lions. Interesting to see but also easily avoidable. Get your souvenirs here.

Wonderful visit, all full of little shops, restaurants, attractions....and the sea lions sunbathing (the very little) if it comes out...many people, very lively and picturesque, it is worth visiting

From this pier, which offers a lot of shopping facilities, you can also see Alcatraz Island from a close view.

I don’t know. Maybe I’m getting older. But to me Pier 39 isn’t what it used to be. There’s a bunch of casual dining shots within the pier. There’s also a bunch of souvenir shops. Honestly, it feels more like a tourist trap than anything else. Parking can be hell – it’s best to Uber there. Everything is way overpriced as opposed to other parts in the city.

On the flip side, the view from the pier is great. The place is definitely hopping/vibrant. The Alcatraz tour is a short walking distance away. Plenty of sea lions/seals to watch and observe. For the most part, it was pretty clean.

If you have kids, they’ll enjoy the action. However, it’s one of those events you go to once and you won’t need to go again

Free activities. Good for a walk. Enjoy the sunset and see the sea lions. Many good restaurants around the area.

Lots of places to eat and shop. Basically, an outlet mall on the shorefront. Seems like there were more places to eat than shop. The views are excellent.

A mixture of a fair and a shopping center. The sea lions on the shore are a real attraction. Definitely worth a visit.

Anyone who appreciates animals living in the wild will be amazed at the Live, Not Domesticated, Seals on the Piers here. The .day we were here it was mild and we ate on the Patio of one of the Restaurants. Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl is Extraordinary. Absolutely a Must Do when in San Francisco.

We spent an afternoon at Pier 39. There are many shops as well as many food and catering stands. And of course we can't leave without meeting the sea lions who took possession of the place.

**Warning! Be Alert!**

Watch out for the guy in the white shirt! He will be out on the pier trying to scam people and tourists with the "Shell Game."

This con game can often be witnessed in San Francisco on warm afternoons, usually between Pier 33 and Pier 39—a prime spot to catch tourists coming off the Alcatraz tour boats at Pier 33. It's called the shell game, and sadly, many people mistake it for a game of skill. However, it's a con that has been refined over hundreds of years to non-violently rob you of your money.

What many people don't realize is that the shell game operator (the one who mixes up the shells) is rarely alone. He is almost always part of a gang of 4 to 8 people, each playing a specific role in the scam. Some members pretend to be players, making noise, having a great time, and appearing to win lots of money. The hardest part of this con is getting people to stop and play, and this is their main tactic to lure you in. They also have lookouts who warn the gang if they spot the police, as well as others who manage the crowd or handle any trouble.

Unfortunately, the police often seem to overlook this activity, even though they are usually aware that these games are being played. I've been informed by San Francisco police that they know the shell game is occurring, but there's little they can do because as soon as they approach, the hustlers scatter. The police can only cite them for littering, as the hustlers often knock over their cardboard table on the sidewalk before fleeing.

So, **BE AWARE** of the guys in this picture, especially the main one in the white shirt!

San Francisco waterfront is a long stretch. So I would recommend you take the subway (BART) and get off at Embarcadero station. There you'll encounter the Ferry Building with lots of interesting historical facts. That is basically your Pier #1. Then slowly walk your way up to Pier 39...roughly 30-40 minutes depending on your speed. In between there are lots to see and do.

Keep this in mind, Pier 39 is a piece of land that's privately owned...with many shops and restaurants, very commercial...is it a tourist trap? That depends on how you look at it. I think everyone should at least experience Pier 39 when in SF just to see the liveliness of it. At the end of the Pier you'll see the sea lions...lots of them.

To continue with your walk after Pier 39, in just 5 minutes you'll hit Fisherman's Wharf. Now this property the Wharf sit on is city owned. Buildings are older, shops and restaurants look different from Pier 39.

And after the Wharf, if you're really up to the challenge, walk another 25 minutes (uphill) south bound to Lombard Street and see why people would pay millions to live on this zig zag crazy street.

Thanks for reading

Street food, fruits, sweets, activities for children, sea lions, boat rides... whether you just want to have a walk, watch the sea lions or rest admiring the passers-by or the street artists, you can spend a whole day here without getting bored and enjoying your vacation.

You need more than a day; so much to see and do. See the seals, Alcatraz, good food, souvenirs for everyone, great picture spots. Try to get your souvenirs on the side streets or Chinatown, much cheaper than pier 39. You can take a ferry to islands across the bay and Sausalito.

It was only a handful of seals located at Pier 39 this week. The weather was cool sunny and not a lot of crazy people hanging around. Here is a pretty fun place to go.

Visited the pier on several occasions as it’s a really lively, clean and entertaining area. Many varying shops line the sides of the pier with restaurants and memorabilia to name but two. There’s jewellery shops too. Take a look over the balcony in the direction of the Golden Gate and you will see the Seals too.

We were apprehensive ahead of our trip from the UK as it was difficult online to find out details about which car parks would be able to accommodate the large vehicle we had hired (Chevrolet Suburban). This needed height clearance of 6ft 7in. The pier 39 car park can accommodate vehicles of this height and length. It is also open 24 hrs which was great as we had a 5am collection for a tour. Price is what you would expect from a park on top of the main tourist attraction, but this does cap at a daily price.
Hope this helps someone else who may be trying to find the same info ahead of a trip.

The Pier 39 is nearby the Fisherman’s Wharf. You have some chances to watch sea lions with a proper distance. You can also find some seafood restaurants. Both day and night time are good for visiting.

Tourist pier full of clubs and shops. There is also the hard rock café. Of note is the massive presence of sea lions. The shops close early. PS - there is a supermarket a stone's throw away where you will find many identical items at a lower price

We then went down to pier 39, to have a good lunch at Bubba Gump Shrimp co. restaurant. Then out along pier 39 to view a couple of hundred seals barking and relaxing on rafts.

When we took the cruise boat it was also out along this pier

You absolutely must see...
Food, shops, music, seals, view of Alcatraz and the bridge. Several attractions such as the heart and the sound steps, shows...
A Christmas shop 🤩
Don't miss it!

Great restaurants and shops at Pier 39, but the highlight is the playful, squaking sea lines! Fun to walk around for several hours!

Pier 39 is located in the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood on San Francisco's north coast and is the tourist heart of the city. Here you will find expensive souvenir shops and restaurants. The local population and high-quality gastronomy, on the other hand, are less likely to be encountered. It is still worth a visit, because the best sightseeing is free: At the end of the pier, dozens of sea lions often sunbathe on floating platforms. A beautiful sight that is hardly clouded by the intense smell of the animals.

Tip: Early in the morning there's very little going on. Shortly after 09:00 we were almost alone at the pier (see pictures) and could watch the sea lions in peace.

I specifically search Pier 39 for sea lions. As soon as I arrive along the pier I am enchanted by the beauty of these animals. You feel them, you see them one step away from you. It was very exciting. The place is also very beautiful. Very touristy but there is a restaurant right where there are sea lions that make delicious crab. It is located on the upper floor. All the fish is excellent. The oysters were very fresh and not that expensive compared to other goods (they cost 21 dollars a dozen). Music, people celebrating. A beautiful day

There were quite a few sea lions here when we went but not hundreds! It was still really cool to see them swimming, lying down or fighting! There are some wall mounts on the sea lions which were interesting.

Very busy at weekends, the sea lions smell VERY fishy but a great place to see them.
A lot of souvenir shops, restaurants. The place to visit when in SF

We had a great time. We were able to get close up to seals basking on the pontoons. Lots of restaurants and eateries to choose from. Well priced. Plenty of retail places if you're inclined to shop. A great vibe.

Had to be visited during our trip to SF. Lots of eateries and shops but the highlight are the sealions. I could have sat there all day watching them basking in the sun, honking at each other. Beautiful animals!

Eighteen years on and sadly this area has lost its way and identity. We expected some changes but not this contrived money trap. The wharf once felt like one and even locals ate and drank here... The sea lions thankfully were wonderful to watch.
There is hardship on the streets everywhere and that is hard to see and you do not feel at all safe.

Horrible tourist trap with tacky amusements and fast food. Would not recommend at all. Felt like being in a cheesy seaside town.

Has plenty of food and shopping options. Such a beautiful place to visit, had great weather and ate at bubba gump, highly recommended

Stay away, not only the Pier 39 area, but the city in general. we have traveled there in the past many times. what is happened there since the last time we were there is so sad to see.
don't go to San Fransisco I was there with my family and felt very unsafe most off the places we visited. Even the botanical gardens in day time was lined with cars with broken windows. Crime all over the place and homeless people all over. Saw several naked mentally ill people in the streets. Do your self a favor stay away and visit somewhere else. again it pains me to write this as I used to love this city.

My wife and I spent a few hours there and really enjoyed it. There are lots of shops, restaurants, street performances, music, and tourists—it was amazing.
The view of the pier is excellent, and sea lions live there, which is fun to watch.
We had a delicious lunch, too.

I liked it very much. It’s a lively place and, in my opinion, a must-visit.

Beautiful city, incredible views, a must visit the Alcatraz prison island, great Lombard Street, lots of culture, delicious food on Pier 39, I will definitely return

Pier 39 offers plenty of eateries and various souvenir shops.
Don’t miss the seals on the pier and the great views out into the harbour.

A great pier with lots of fun. Great vibe. Plenty of places to eat, grab drinks and gifts. For magnets, the last shop has a great range at sensible prices.

What an amazing place to visit the highlight are definitely the sea lions which are a delight to watch at the playful antics they get up to
The pier itself is host to wonderful eateries and fancy goods shops
Street performers entertain the crowds
Great atmosphere

If you are there while the Seal Lions are hanging out there- this is a must visit. Even though the area to view the Seal Lions was crowded everyone was pleasant while you watched and listened to them. We walked down there several times during our visit. It is windy and cold down there.

Typical Pier to visit, with tourist shops, restaurants and the inevitable sight of sea lions.

You better get your wallet and card ready here! Lots of capitalism is going to entice you on this place! Only thing free here is the viewing of the sea lions! You also get a closer look of alcatraz here. See images and videoa for further information

Pier 39 has far too many tacky souvenir shops. The highlights were the sea lions and Musee Mechanique close-by.

Before visiting the city we made a list of places which we wanted to visit. This place was between those with mark - definitely. We were looking forward especially to see the sea lions. Oh boy, we did already hear them at Ferry Arch. When we came to the actual Pier 39 it was very busy and crowded but it didn't discourage us. We didn't manage to get to the end of the Pier through the crowd but we saw and took great photos and videos of the animals and we spent quite a long time watching them. We visited also some shops - KWAK with funny ducks (we found one in Montreal where we bought one item), Cable Car Store where we bought few good quality gifts, Christmas shop with great offer, Sock Market is great and we had French crepes which were delicious. Yes, it is very crowded but not overcrowded , probably some shops/ restaurants are more pricey then elsewhere but hey, this happen everywhere where is something special and here it is. We enjoyed every minute there.

Pier 39 is full of life, music, scents and surprises. Between shops, street artists, restaurants and the inevitable view of Alcatraz, you can breathe a unique atmosphere. Sea lions sunbathing on the platforms are irresistible. A dip in Californian energy.

Colors, life, and sea lions!
Pier 39 is full of life, music, scents and surprises. Between quirky shops, street performers, restaurants, and the classic view of Alcatraz, the vibe is truly unique. And the sea lions sunbathing on the docks? Totally irresistible. A dive into pure Californian energy.

I can't remember how many times I have been to Pier 39 and it is still the same enchantement. The atmosphere, the shops, the amazing restaurants are a must do in SFO.

I know it's a tourist hot spot but I loved it! Especially early in a morning when there was no-one around. The cafes were perfect for breakfast, the shops were lovely, there were some really good restaurants for lunch and dinner, plenty of places to sit and relax and obviously the sea lions too! It was clean and tidy and no idiots messing about - it was just a great place to be!

We came here to see the sea lions and were not disappointed. Loads of them in the sunshine. A must see here!

After going to Alcatraz, we spent some time exploring the shops at Pier 39. The area felt very safe. We parked our car in the parking garage across the street ($25 for whole day). We saw several police officers standing around or riding a bike. There were numerous street vendors selling food and souvenirs. The shops offered a wide variety of items and delicious food. We enjoyed the candy store, the left hander’s store, Mrs. Fields cookies, and numerous clothing shops.

Yes, Pier 39 is a tourist trap, but it's so convenient and nice. There are lots of food options, many of which have counter service and then they bring food to you or you can do take out. Makes it convenient for families/groups who can't agree on one place to eat but want to eat together. A bonus is that it's easy to find a spot to eat with views of the water. The souvenir shops are some of the best I found in SF and prices were consistent with shops around SF. They also have a few specialty shops. As far as entertainment, there's a carousel ($7 per ride), 4D movie thing, bungee cord jump thing and more. My favorite entertainment was the seals and pelicans on the pier. The seals were so entertaining, you could literally watch them for hours.

Worth a walk around but $8 for a hot dog, really! Good view of the harbour if you walk straight past the expensive fun fair. Sea Lions the best bit and they were noisy smelly and argumentative :-)

If you go to fishermans warf in San Fran pier 39 is a must with bars cafes shops restraunts galore and the views on a clear day are fantastic and dont forget the seals and pelicans.

Another iconic must see while in San Francisco. While on the big bus tour, stopped at Pier 39 and spent an hour plus touring around the Pier and of course seeing their world famous guests. Was just an enjoyable place to be, and a great way to get a great view of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and of course the seals and sea lions, who certainly put on a show for you.

Been before and loved it so time to visit again.

Places to eat, places to drink, places to buy tack, sorry souvenirs, places to sit plus seals and pelicans.

A wonderful pier and a must if you visit San Francisco.

The Pier 39 Area is filled with what I call Tourist Traps, Souvenir Shops, restaurants and the Sea Lions. Even though this place is packed and feels like a carnival I still think its worth a visit if your staying the the area, especially to see the sea lions they can be very entertaining, all thought they are stinky.

Another enjoyable time in San Francisco. I could sit and watch the sealions all day. Has great spots for food and shopping.

Very touristy area but it has a nice feel to it. The shops are expensive for souvenirs and you can probably get cheaper food elsewhere, but we enjoyed what we ate and watching the sea lions was awesome. Really great to see them lounging around and making so much noise.

Crowded? Check. Touristy? Check. Food EVERYWHERE? Check. But hold on....that's part of the point! We don't always want to walk into a "tourist trap" but this one is worth your time. Firstly, Pier 39 is a great place to walk and people watch. You don't have to eat or buy anything, just enjoy the scene. There are tons of unique little shops and an overall happy mood. Soak that in and find any place you can. Second, you can see The Rock while walking the Pier. Third, SEA LIONS! You can watch them flopping in and out of the water, barking, sleeping, and just relaxing in the sun. It smells about as good as you'd expect, but the nose adjusts quickly enough. Watching these animals is highly entertaining and a place where a lot of crowds gather. Be nice, be patient, you'll get a spot where you can see them soon enough.
You probably don't need to make the Pier your entire day (unless you want to, of course), but walking it is worth the time. I'm glad I did. A brief stop that brought a lot of smiles.

Before the pandemic , there are lot of sea lions .
right now just a few . SAD!

Good place to watch the sunset

Great place to take a walk and chill out , plenty of eating and drinking places,
Watching the sea lions lying about.
Just watch your step on the old wooden decking areas.
Thoroughly enjoyed the walkabout.

Visit the colony of California sea lions that lounge on the docks. Prime viewing season is from late July to mid-May when you can expect to see hundreds of these playful marine mammals.

A fun and lively spot for all ages, Pier 39 features a festive atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and street performers lining the wooden walkway. Enjoy the views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge (visible on clear days), and the bustling harbor.

Beautiful and varied places, you can see Alcatraz and the beautiful seals. You can also find restaurants, souvenir shops, and clothes.

Every visit to Frisco involves a visit to 39
It is of course an Icon.
Lovely views of Alcatraz.
Sea the sea lions and eat and drink.
Love it

San Francisco night is complete by visiting Pier 39 (per ⁇ the most famous Pier in the world). In it you find all major chains of restaurants in the USA (Hard Rock Cafe, Bubbagump Schrimp etc). Besides the shopping tour is very worth it, a lot to see, enjoy and, if you're with dimdim, buy!

My husband and I walked around and saw lots of fun stores and had a fun time. Bought some gifts and enjoyed the beautiful evening.

We are from the UK and had heard quite alot about Pier 39, unfortunately for us it was a bit of a tourist trap, however we did enjoy the Clam Chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.

Directly at Pier 39 and thus at the port. The ambience is very good if you - like us - have a seat at the window. Food (predominantly seafood) was one of the Unpacked in San Francisco.

At first glance you would say this is just about making money and a Honey trap for tourists however it gave so much more
From the history to Sealions to sunsets it was beautiful …. See beyond the people!

So much fun watching the seals even though they are just being lazy, relaxing. Didn't realize there were so many. Fun stop between activities.

To do during your stay, lots of varied shops, large choice of restaurants, of course, the main attraction, the sea lions

... is more like a long, little Disneyland.

There is souvenir shop after souvenir shop and food stall after food stall.

Packed to capacity, even on rainy days and at a cool 12 degrees.

There are also quite nice shops here such as a shop for left-handers, for magic tricks, for CBD, for posters and billboards, for coffee and more coffee (with biscuits), for minerals, for honey, for socks, for X and for Y.

Directly adjacent: the Aquarium by the Bay

Sea lions apparently find the hustle and bustle quite nice and have settled here. However, in order to take decent photos of the sea lions, you need a good telephoto lens.

First Visit to San Francisco and was expecting more from Pier 39! A lot of restaurants and some cheap shops. Not that many restaurants that suited us and all very expensive. Shops tourist stuff and worth a wander but only once!
Breeding season for the seals so not many to see on our visit.

It's a short walk to the end of the pier, and fun for all ages. I didn't realize, coming from the west, that right on the otherside was a lot of shopping, so be sure to sneak between the halls to get back out to get the most out of this minor side trip.

I loved it, there are several restaurants and shops, I really liked it to spend the afternoon. We went in November and it was cold, so you have to bring a good coat.

An unmissable place with lots of entertainment, restaurants and gift shops. the spot is great for walking and also seeing sea lions.

Nice to walk around, nothing special, just many souvenir stores and Seafood restaurants. We did try the Classic Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bread not many clams in it, You can view many Sea lions sunbathing on the wooden deck and also have a view of the United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz Island from the dock,

A girls trip with our teenagers. Was a great time. It’s always great to see and experience, nature its raw and natural form.

A lot of Pier 39 is very family-oriented, such as the double decker carousel. However, I thoroughly enjoyed watching the sea lions lounge and play.

It is the most lively and safe area of the city, full of attractions and clubs of all kinds, in the evening everything closes quite early and in the morning until almost lunch there is nothing open. Beautiful view of the Golden Bridge from afar and cute all the animals on the platforms

Brilliant vibes along this vibrant area. There are lot of shops either side of the roas leading up to the Pier. There are so many shops and restaurants on two levels of the Pier. Nice to have a wander around. The highlight for us was the sea lions! A must do visit.

Definitely a place to visit in my opinion as it's 5 minutes from Fisherman's Wharf. They've got some shops and restaurants, but honestly it's just kind of fun to walk down on the bottom and walk back up on the upper walkways. Sea Lions in the back corner are definitely a touristy thing to do.

Pleasant efficient staff. A good sized piece of fish [Sole] with Garlic Potatoes. All in all an excellent meal. Which is why we went a second time!

Several of the piers are fascinating, but Pier 39 is quintessential. Take a leisurely stroll among the shops. Perhaps buy a baked treat. Or even savor some fresh seafood. Don't miss the playful Sea Lions!

A well-kept and well-kept pier full of refreshment points, free and spotlessly clean toilets and souvenir shops, as well as the iconic Hard Rock Café.
It's worth walking around, mingling with the crowd, sipping a coffee in the paper cup, but above all to get to the real protagonists of this place: the sea lions.
They have illegally and pleasantly occupied the boat moorings at the back and spend the day lounging on the floating platforms pampered by the waves

Walk to see the trip, the whole bay is nice to visit. You can also take a boat to the Devil Island where there is no prisoner prison. There are many shops here, you can walk slowly, walk slowly, and there are public toilets.

You can't leave San Francisco without seeing the sea lions at Pier 39. They go up and down the floating platforms, swim or bask lazily in the sun regardless of the numerous tourists.
The area is lively and full of shops. Pay attention to the prices, not exactly affordable.

You must have visited pier 39 and Fisherman's wharf.
It's busy and touristy but still fun.
Just the 4th of July, saw a gigantic fireworks display.
Not many sea lions, too busy and too loud for sure.
And you see Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

It's one of the Piers of Fisherman's Wharf. The most busy because of the sea lions that stay around there. A multitude of restaurants and fast snacks. Very good for dinner and stroll in the early evening.

Walked all the way around. Walked down each day as we stayed not far away, to look around and just soak up the atmosphere.

Great visit. Lots to see and especially lots of delicious places to eat. We went during the week first which was nice and quiet compared to the weekend when it was extremely busy. The sea lions were sunbathing and fighting on the wooden deck and the pier gave great views of the bay, the bridge and Alcatraz.

I don't know that I'd call this a must-do, but it's fun as a time-filler. Lots of kitchy/tourist shops in the wharf area, including a Xmas shop. The seals are definitely fun to watch (and listen to); when they get to barking, it gets pretty loud! It's amusing to watch them jockeying for space when they want to lie in the sun. There are also some cool seal statues all around the wharf area down there, so see how many you can spot when you're there.

A very interesting and cool experience. Lots of shops, restaurants, and other food options.

I went later in the evening so the sea lions weren’t as heavily populated! Bummer.

Lots and lots of people so be prepared to be patient and wait in lines and what not.

You can't go to SF and not spend time at Pier 39. We ended each day there, no matter where we'd been. Plenty of places to eat, great shops, you can watch the seals and pelicans or chill with a cocktail and great views across the bay. We ate at Bubba Gumps which was fantastic. Also found a great fruit stall where we bought the most amazing nectarines and tangerines to take back to our room for next mornings breakfast. The shops are great, some typical touristy ones but also a shop for left handed people which was fun, great candy stores with a wide variety of taffy and a hot sauce shop. There is also regular entertainment, games places and a Hard Rock if you want something familiar. Walk along to Fisherman's Wharf where there are other great shops, bars, restaurants. Boudins sourdough, Applebees, seafood places and the Argonaut Hotel (Vanderpump Rules) but also, the turntable for the cable car and Buena Vista bar from When a Man loves a Woman.

Pier 39 is an amazing place to visit, from the Sea Lions, to watching the pelicans fly, shopping, eating and exploring. Its a must see

This is a must see if in San Francisco. I was here June 2024 with my partner celebrating our 20 years together and had to visit Pier 39. We loved the store ms especially the Christmas shops and the few eateries dotted about etc means there is plenty available. Watching the sea lions is such experience and they are real characters. They draw a good crowd but we were able to get a good view of them. Certainly a must if you ask if you’re ever in San Francisco.

The sea lions were hilarious. There was plenty of room but they all tried to squeeze onto the same raft. Lots of barking and shoving others into the water. Free entertainment. Close to a variety of restaurants and shops.

My kids had been talking about seeing Sea Lions for weeks before our trip. It was definitely worth stopping by. Would recommend if in the area.

Absolutely loved seeing the sea lions in their natural habitat. They are incredible. Lots of fun little shops and places to eat. Would recommend

Pier 39 was not far from our cruise terminal and we had some free time off the ship so decided to have a wander. Two floors of food and drink outlets, shops, entertainment offers something for everyone. The views across the bay are incredible and then the sealions are a must see. You can hear them before you see them - a great experience to see them so close

Theme park athmosphere, shops and restaurants. Nice and relaxing place at any rate, to spend some time looking for souvenirs and grabbing something to eat.

Nice place with nice views (alcatraz island, the sea lions). You find good places to eat and walk.

Lots of barking but lots of photo ops also. The sea lions ignore you as they relax and sun bathe, but are perfect for pictures.

Stopped by after our Alcatraz trip, very touristy but atmospheric place, had a great lunch, plenty of choice to fit all tastes and budgets. Definitely worth a visit.

This place has a lot to see & do, however it’s a big tourist trap where everything is way overpriced. Be prepared to shell out some serious cash here or bring a cold rag to cool down that credit card. The clam chowder bread bowls are good though so give them a try.

This purports to be a traditional set old old timber buildings on a pier, but in reality it is a clever development of old style buildings that has been very well executed to provide a tourist destination.

It is a mix of retail outlets and restaurants and is well worth a visit. It is a decent location to pick up some souvenirs in a pleasant environment.

The whole location, the whole coastal way is quite charming, and that pier is the most popular and full of tourists to hang out and watch a herd of seals and sea lions residing there. It should be on the top priority list.

Walked around the pier after having a late lunch. Fun to watch the sea lions (along with many other people)

One of the most characteristic spots in San Francisco. It feels more like being on calamity island from the movie “Jaws” than in an American city and it feels like being in a Universal studios attraction, instead of a metropolis with skyscrapers and houses everywhere. Tourist spot and reference point for tourists who can wander among souvenirs and sea lions beached in a quay below the pier. To see

What a great opportunity to view sea lions. There is also an information board detailing the difference between seals and sea lions.

A leisurely stroll along Pier 39 to see the happy looking sea lions is a must if visiting San Francisco. There are the usual tourist shops, stalls, funfair, arcade and street dancers etc... along the way to add to the fun. Can get very busy on the weekend but we had the sun! Beware of the wind along the Pier though and don't forget the spf!

Thtge california have the best pires and thus pier is the best in all af them
This place have the best wether and the best view and the beat..

It was a lively place. There was a street juggler, and he was very good. I enjoyed the shops and food. It was a prefect day.

Pier 39 is a must-visit destination in San Francisco, offering a vibrant mix of attractions, shopping, dining, and stunning bay views. At first glance you will see a row of piers' lined up on the bay, in the distance you can see the "Golden Gate Bridge" to the left , and the abandoned max security prison "Alcatraz" in the middle of the bay behind directly behind the pier. You can take a tour of the bay, and also get a tour Alcatraz, with the "California Sea Lion's" presence. Pier 39 is an exclusive region of California, and the Untied States, and I highly recommend you visit.

Pier 39 is at the Fisherman's Wharf tourist area. This pier is large with lots of shops, Boudin bakery cafe which is fantastic, and at the end of the pier you can watch sea lions. Its a fun but very busy area.

Great place to visit , shop and eat.

Fun place to spend a few hours.

Street performers abound and folks are nice.

Very touristy.

Nice location on the bay in front of Alcatraz but only full of shops for tourists of gadgets and souvenirs; lots of people.

Had a great time. Loved the tourist shops. Had the best funnel cake from aunt fanny's, great service. A delicious clam chowder at chowders, excellent service there too! Loved the seals, love the view of alchatraz and the bridge. Great tourist fun!

This is a mall with shops lined up on both sides of an area that juts out like a pier.

It was a sunny holiday afternoon, and there were a lot of people out, so be careful of pickpockets.

There was a long queue for the women's restroom.

This is also the famous sea lion spot.

Even before we could see the area, we could hear the roaring of sea lions, like the kind you hear at a zoo.

There were so many people that we couldn't see anything, so we climbed up onto a platform and were finally able to see them. Everyone seemed to like sea lions, so the front row never became empty while we were watching.

You could spend several days exploring and enjoying the many aspects including restaurantes, shows and sites. General la crowded but there are places to hide away and still enjoy

Loved Pier 39 and it’s not just a lame tourist spot. Cute restaurants and shops and a great atmosphere. Clean and safe during the day and at night

The sea lions are next level and watching them sun bake I could have done that all day long.

Family friendly tourist attraction offering souvenir shops, restaurants and eateries, entertainment, an aquarium, a carousel and many other activities. However, the highlight is watching the dozens of noisy but entertaining sea lions who hang out next to the pier. Probably the best place along the Embarcadero for a tourist to visit.

Such a lovely place and a must see. This was our 2nd time there and it is still one of my fave places to visit. The only thing I did not like is the smell of weed everywhere which is sickening

Busy, crowded and still worth it. Went 3 times, watched the sea lion antics every time. It is touristy, but the views and food worth it. Or sit and people watch. Lots of families and everyone we met was so polite and friendly.

We went mainly to see the sealions which were great! Lounging around very casually. You know where they are as there is a big crowd opposite them on pier 39.

It's a lovely area to walk around - its busy but not oppressively so. Loads of restaurants, street vendors and souvenir shops and stalls. Has a really nice vibe.

Definitely worth a visit.

I loved this place I went there twice during the day and in the evening. Different atmosphere to do. It is a friendly place filled with small shops, bars, restaurants built on a pier by the water. I love the idea it's very nice the walk both during the day and at night and it's super safe it's a meeting place for sharing.

There’s a certain charm in cities that seamlessly blend the thrills of urban sophistication with the wonder of childlike discovery. San Francisco’s Pier 39, perched on the edge of its photogenic waterfront, might just be the epitome of this balance. While it’s often a whirlwind of selfie sticks and churro stands, it also offers an authentic slice of Americana—a rare feat in a world of sterile tourist traps.

For parents traveling with children, Pier 39 delivers an experience that oscillates between the delightfully kitsch and the refreshingly enriching. Our family, comprising two young adventurers aged 6 and 4, found it an ideal base camp for a day’s exploration.

Arrival:
Approach by foot if you can—the brisk Bay air and glimpses of Alcatraz set the tone. If driving, be prepared for the usual West Coast parking challenges. The multi-story garage is efficient, if a touch utilitarian, but does the job.

First Impressions:
To a seasoned traveler, the primary-colored signage and carnival-like atmosphere may feel over the top. Yet, look past the clam chowder bread bowls and you’ll see a thoughtfully curated ecosystem where local artisans rub shoulders with global brands.

With Kids in Tow:
Start with the sea lions. Situated at the end of the pier, these gregarious residents have mastered the art of entertainment. For our boys, it was love at first bark. The pier’s Sea Lion Center provides fascinating context about their habits, subtly educating amidst the spectacle.

The Aquarium of the Bay is a must-visit. Its underwater tunnels—where leopard sharks glide overhead—elicited gasps even from our normally unflappable six-year-old. A gentle reminder: book your tickets ahead to avoid queues.

And then there’s the carousel. It’s whimsical, beautifully crafted, and—most importantly—slow enough to allow a tired parent a moment to breathe.

Dining:
Lunch is a necessary indulgence at Fog Harbor Fish House, where the clam chowder and Dungeness crab are as authentic as the views. Kid-friendly portions were appreciated, as was the staff’s tolerance for spilled juice.

A Note on Retail:
The pier’s shops tread the fine line between novelty and necessity. We left with a few plush sea lions (thanks, kids) and a new appreciation for saltwater taffy.

Verdict:
Pier 39 isn’t understated, nor does it try to be. It’s unapologetically vibrant, designed for the wide-eyed and wonder-filled. For families, it’s a place where travel ceases to be a chore and becomes what it ought to be—a joy.

Would we return? Absolutely, though next time we’d aim for an earlier start to sidestep the mid-afternoon crowds. After all, adventure always favors the prepared.

Characterized by the continuous call of sea lions who, undeterred, have their quay night and day!
Very quaint and folkloristic, walking among the many souvenir shops, restaurants, fast food and various attractions.
Impossible not to go!

All along the ocean is wonderful in San Francisco, every Pier is quaint. Pier 39 is the most beautiful because in addition to all or various shops and places to eat, it welcomes sea lions that are really many and beautiful to see so closely.

The main attraction of this dock is to go to the end and observe the sea lions that are laid on wooden pontoons, in total freedom. The show is worthwhile and admission is free. There are many restaurants and the promenade very nice. Probably one of Fisherman’s Wharf’s must-sees.

When we got dropped lot more crowd. We just got into the merry mode and got energised. At the entrance we had good coffee at coffee house. Did lot more shopoing in shell centre and bought unique collections. We went near by sea shore and had a wonderful sea view and the west side city view too. We spent lot more time with lot of fun.

But if you come by car, be ready to spend more on parking or prepared to walk long distance to park your vehicle far away

Also we travelled from sanjose to SFO and on our way back lot of traffic and we happened to wade through among busily moving vehicles.

Fun to see the Sea Lions. They are behind the shops. The Pier is full of beautiful little touristy shops but thats the beauty of Pier 39. Best visited during a weekday rather during the weekend as it is extremely crowded. Eat chocolate treats from one of the many shops and clam chowder from Boudin.

I visited SF in the beginning of September and found so many sea lions from Pier 39! So surprised that they are huge! Impressive.

We visited during the early afternoon. Tulips were planted everywhere making a lovely view.
Very crowded and touristy but that should be expected. Many options for food, from a snack to a full meal. Everyplacecseems to offer chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Of course you'll want to see and hear the sealions basking in the sun. There is an elevator available to get to the upper deck of the pier. Lots of typical tourist shops but a fun way to spend time

The pier is like an amusement park. There are countless shops and restaurants. The sea lions are another highlight of the pier. You should see this!

Fabulous pier with lovely restaurants.
Something for everyone.
The seals can keep you occupied for a good few hours with their antics. Maybe have a nice glass of wine and watch the world go by!

If you love sea lions, this is the place for you! The tourist shops are cute with a varied range, lots of places to eat, the bathrooms are clean, it's a lovely lovely place to spend a few hours. I'm so happy we went!

Pier 39 is a must see when visiting San Francisco From the shops to the restaurants there is so much to see The variety of shops carry nice merchandise and there is a great variety of restaurants to eat Never forget the seals on the backside

As a local, I visited Pier 39 with friends after many years of not going there.
It’s not worth 5 minutes of your time. There was nothing interesting (except the sea lions). It’s very touristy and most of it is selling cheap, worthless souvenirs. There are street performers that are entertaining but it’s so commercial and tacky that I would never go back.
As an alternative, Walk from the Ferry Building to Fisherman’s Wharf - it’s flat and you’ll go past Pier 39. You can also take the F street car between the destinations.
The Exploratorium, an interactive science museum, is along the way and worth visiting but is $$$$.

We had a fantastic time at PIER 39 in San Francisco! The lively atmosphere, stunning waterfront views, and variety of attractions made it a memorable visit. We enjoyed watching the sea lions, exploring the shops, and trying out the delicious food. It's a great spot for families and anyone looking to experience the best of San Francisco. absolutely Highly recommend!!!

This place, while very touristic, is briming with excitement. There are many great restaurants, gift shops, even a mini fair with a merry-go-around. And, most important for our son was there were many sea lions to watch.

Pier 39 gets super crowded on the weekends so we made sure to go during the week. It was busy, but not terrible. It was fun to see the boats going to and from Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. We enjoyed watching the sea lions bark from their own little landing. Although the price to go on a boat was steep, souvenirs were reasonably priced. There were many places to warm up with clam chowder and coffee. Lots of great places for quick snapshots of the bay.

The seals are only part of what is down there and there are plenty of good eateries and shops to browse in the area. There’s also entertainment in the people that are down in the area at certain times as well…….

Pier 39 is super touristy and definitely more of a family attraction, however it still has it's charms. Amongst the souvenir shops and kitschy restaurants are great views of Alcatraz Island and the Bay as well as the always-endearing sea lion observation area. There is a parking garage, but it's also right next to the F line streetcar.

Super touristy dock and always very lively, full of souvenir shops and restaurants, like an open-air shopping center. In addition, it has a nice merry-go-round and some friendly sea lions.

It's the coolest pier in San Francisco in my opinion. Very lively and full of cool shops. Seafood restaurants have many as well. It's a very good astral. Sea lions are a grace, but they're loud and fight rs. There were many when I went.

There are many reasons why Pier 39 is the most visited destination in San Francisco. Here are five of them: (1) see the whiskered sea lions, (2) take a 60 to 90-minute-long bay cruise that includes the best close-up view of the Golden Gate Bridge, (3) see the largest predatory shark in San Francisco Bay at the Aquarium on the Bay, (4) ride the carousel and browse the shops and (5) have a bowl of clam chowder with crab meat and a plate of fish and chips at Fog Harbor Fish House, named the "most exceptional restaurant in San Francisco" in 2024. Located within the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, at Beach Street & the Embarcadero, Pier 39 opened in 1978, a 45-acre complex bordered on the west by Ghirardelli Square. It features two levels of dining, entertainment, shopping and attractions, all surrounded by magnificent waterfront views of San Francisco Bay and the city. By the numbers, it features 12 full-service restaurants, 90 shops and attractions, a five-acre waterfront park and a 300-berth marina. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., it is a must stop for anyone touring San Francisco, from the Oakland Bay Bridge to the Golden Gate Bridge and everything in between. I heartily recommend two other stops -- The Fudgery, which has been making hand-paddled fudge on a marble slab since 1980 (buy three slices and get one free) and Alcatraz Book Store, which has featured the widest selection of Alcatraz related books, souvenirs, videos, photographs and apparel since 1973.

My daughter and i strolled the shops on the pier and ended up at bubba Gump shrimp. Lots of shops to go through so take your time here.

Nice viewpoint and lots of wandering and shopping. Honestly everything is average and overpriced so hard for me to get to exited.

Unmissable place to eat, take a spin even buy. With good,views of the bay, lots of hustle and bustle but very pleasant to travel. Mostly acceptable prices and views of sea lions which in our case were only about 10 examples at most. Good place to take a break more or less halfway through the Golden Gate

Quite the long wait to find parking in the parking garage, lots of traffic. It took over 30 minutes to find parking at the top of the garage.
Scenic views. Watching the sea lions was the best part of the day.
The shops were okay. I did some souvenir shopping; I thought they were reasonably priced, but I didn't shop around.
I ate a good early dinner at Wipeout Bar and Grill. I bought tasty fudge at The Fudgery.

Nice place, nice shops and restaurants. It's a shame about the many drug addicts and homeless people hanging around there.

Great shops, bars, restuarant and views to the Bay, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Close to the city and dock to go to Alcatraz Island and Sassilito.

Definitely check out the sea lions if you’re in town. They don’t do much other than lay about and bark, but they’re fun to watch for 15 minutes!

A good buzz with plenty of shops to browse through and restaurants to enjoy the seals really drew the crowds and gave great entertainment

Yes, the pier is nice, with sea lions, tourist restaurants etc. but San Francisco seems like a ghost town, very few people around except tourists, many closed shops, crazy prices... many homeless. Shooting after sunset is not a good feeling
but why go, for a tram, a bridge and a pier? Guys, Americans are great communicators... ahhh the climate is horrible

I liked my visit to this place. Several restaurants and shops are located there in addition to being a lively place. The view is impressive and we even had the chance to see wolffish.

A San Francisco must-see, Pier 39 has tons to do and isn't just a pier. Tons of fresh seafood, including what would be considered "fair food" including funnel cake, giant pretzels, and more plus the Sealions!

We loved wandering around Pier 39. It might seem like an overglorified boardwalk, but it's so much more than that. The stores were fun and full of interesting things to explore, and the energy was upbeat and excited. This place is definitely a tourist attraction and the stores reflect that, but we also saw people going for a jog, wandering around the shops, and just having a good time. There were good views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge from here, and there were a lot of benches where we could just sit and people-watch. There's plenty to do for everyone - we really liked the carousel and the coffeeshops.

Not our first time and won’t be our last. We had fun explaining the ward and Ghirardelli square. The sea lions are great to watch. Go to Alcatraz if you have the time.

We really enjoy wandering around Pier 39 every time we are in San Francisco. There are nice shops, plenty of restaurants, ice cream shop, a rubber duck store and a vintage carrousel. The sea lions are here too! Often we catch a busker performance in front of the carrousel. This time it was a clown magician. The area is clean and we always feel safe here. It gets quite busy on weekends and when cruise ships are in port. But, so worth a visit!

Beautiful area of the city, full of restaurants and various attractions.
The continuation of the walk is also worth the visit.
Impossible not to pass if in the area

We stopped at Pier 39 almost every day of our trip to San Francisco. It is a safe, fun, and touristy place to eat and shop. Our kids also loved the carousel ride.

Our kids loved to watch the sea lions which have taken up residence next to the pier.

We visited San Francisco on a Tuesday and decided o go to Pier 39 to look around and see what was going on. Has been about 20 years since the last time had visited Pier 39 and first thing we discovered was not quite as many street performers and people during the week as one weekends. We looked around and visited some of the shops, grabbed a quick bit to eat and a ice cream for lunch and watched the site. There are quite a few places to eat, both walk up food as well as restaurants, lots of gift shops, and not to far from Fisherman's Wharf. There is a fair amount to see if you want to walk around so would plan to send a couple of hours and longer if you want to stop and eat someplace. The better places to go, see and eat are towards the back of Pier 39, as well as upstairs.

Go and see the sea lions. The rest of the pier is very touristy and not the main attraction. You can go down the side of the pier to the sea lions and avoid the whole tourist area.

I really loved visiting the pier, great to see all the shops and resturant, we ate at hard rock and we loved it. It was a bit cold, so bring a jacket.

A true carnival setting along with a variety of seafood dishes. Since I've always loved Forrest Gump, I had a great time at the Bubba Gump restaurant.

We loved watching the sea lions - a better view if you go upstairs onto the next level up. Fabulous Christmas tree at the entrance with its own musical light show . Loved the food at Wipeout .

We heard about this from brochures and other information and knew we had to stop and see it. As we got off our tour bus and headed down Pier 39 we knew we are getting close could we could smell them. LOL We could also hear them as they were very noisy. We got down to the viewpoint in man there were a lot of them. We took a few snapshots and also a short video to show the folks back home. But definitely recommend this to anybody wanting to see the sea lions up close and also get to see the beautiful Pier 39.

Pier 39 is a great place to eat and visit. Offering all sorts for food especially sea food. Has some entertainment at the end of the pier with a large merry go round and other small arcades.

One of the main tourist attractions in San Francisco.
Very cool place with several restaurants, cafes and shops.
One of the main tourist attractions in San Francisco, I liked it so much that I went twice more.
I recommend.

walk through the pier, see the seals, right along the prom from the Alcatraz boat.
lovely stroll through the shops

The sea lions are on the left side at the very back of the pier and are the main attraction. It is worth enduring the crowds and watching the fights. Otherwise the pier is completely overcrowded and offers souvenir shops, restaurants and a fairground atmosphere. It is certainly colorful, loud and hectic, but if that doesn't put you off, you will get a lot in a small space.

A bit brash and overwhelming, but the sunbathing seals were a great sight and sound to behold. Worth the walk.

Pier 39 captures San Francisco’s energy in one spot — sea lions basking in the sun, the scent of chowder bread bowls, and views stretching to Alcatraz. We spent a few hours wandering the shops, catching street performances, and enjoying a glass of California wine by the bay.

It’s definitely touristy, but the atmosphere is lively and fun. The only downside was the crowd: even midweek, it felt packed and noisy. Still, the sea lions alone make it worth it.

Tip: Go early or near sunset for fewer people and the best light over the bay.

The sea lions are fun to watch, but the pier is also packed with restaurants and shops, among other things. It reminded me of the Boardwalk in The Lost Boys. Full of charm.

Kids will love the seals! See the seals, grab some AMAZING mini donuts at Trish’s, go to the upper level for a great view. Don’t waste your money here on souvenirs - head 15 minutes into SF to Chinatown for fun kitschy stuff at a fraction of the price.

Pack a jacket - proximity to the bay makes it 5-10 degrees cooler than the rest of the city.

Pier 39 is a smaller version of the pier of Santa Barbara, without the ferry wheel. It has restaurants, souvenir stores, cafes and at the far end a lookout over the bay. It is crowded on the weekends and a must-see in San Francisco. The good thing is you don't need to spend anything if you don't want as it is Free!

There are many restaurants in Pier 39 and the aquarium is a great place to see animals that live in the bay. The sea lions sit on docks and you can watch them from the boardwalk.

One of the best places in san francisco if you want some entertainment and nice eateries and restaurants. Different things to see and to enjoy. Outside you can admire the sea lions having their break...

I loved visiting Pier 39! This place is so different to downtown and that's a good thing.
No sign of much homelessness and drug use here.
It is touristy yes and we felt very safe.
Loved the vibe: people everywhere, lots to eat & drink and shop.
There's a magic show several times a day.
Lovely carousel for the kids and young-at-heart.

Great feeling being by the water. Lovely marina, cool sea lions and you can have a meal upstairs while enjoying the sea lions without the crowds on Dock K.
I was drawn to Mrs. Fields cookies being a chocolate addict! Haha!

One of the nicest Piers anywhere! Something for everyone in the family.
I'd actually hang out here with my girlfriends.

A family arcade would round things off perfectly here!

Piece of advice: Make a restaurant reservation if you're planning to eat during the lunchtime hours. We tried to get into Bubba Gump Shrimp Co and there was a 45-minute way for seats.

Had a great time exploring Pier 39. There is an array of shops and food vendors. It has something for everyone there. The area is lovely and clean. A great way to spend a few hours. We visited twice and it was moderately busy both times. A must do if you are in San Francisco. Public transport is nice and close.

Friday Saturday and visit.
There were many restaurants and souvenir shops.
I enjoyed the spiciness of finding a hot sauce shop and tasting it.
Lastly, when I went to see the sea lions, there used to be a whole raft of them, but because of the warming, there were about 10 of them.
It was disappointing not to see the sea lions, which they return to a little in winter.

Great to visit and see all the different shops, eating places and souvenirs.
Great views of alcatraz
The sea lions are great to see, they are good fun.

Visited: 10/06/23

Pier 39 is filled with lots of tourist traps of shops, things to do, and of course the sea lions. I would still recommend a visit to see the Sea Lions, they are most cute taking over the pier and barking at each other.
The attractions on the Pier themselves are very tourist trap and expensive for what they are. We didn't eat here, but some of the prices we saw also feel like a trap.

The day we visited was really busy so crowding was an issue and was hard to walk through in some places where it became a bottle-neck.

Overall it was a nice visit down there, but only for a look around and to say you have been. Sea Lions were the best bit about it.

Very nice to spend a day, go for a walk or eat marine food. A lot of fun outdoors. Must see the sealions.

It is a nice area to walk, there are restaurants and many souvenir shops. We walked from Chirardelli Square to this area and Fishrman Wharf, the walk is simple and pleasant.
There is an area where there are many sea lions sunbathing.

A lot of places to relax and enjoy a good meal and drinks. different choice of food for all tastes and nationalities.

It's a super touristy area. Do make a point to see other parts of town. See the sea lions while you're there.

We love visiting Fisherman’s Wharf since it is one of our favorite places to visit in San Francisco. We love walking around the Wharf and having lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants and ice cream in the ice cream shop and watching the sea lions. We have lived in San Francisco Bay Area for over 36 years and can never get tired of visiting Fisherman’s Wharf. It is a very special place and we love to take our guests visiting from overseas there to enjoy this wonderful location and create memories of San Francisco!!

Cheaper to buy at Pier 39 than Hollywood for sourvenirs.
All you beed to visit in San Francisco is between the golden gate and pier 39 including china town, market street and union square.

Good old Pier 39, never disappoints. Have been here several times, although over many years. Not much changes. Always want to see the Sea Lions, although not many here on this visit, but fun to watch and hard to leave. Lots of shops and eateries to while away the time. Also good view of Alcatraz from the end of the pier.

In order to save money on parking, go to pier 39 parking website and book a parking spot for $20
Otherwise it’s 10$ per hour with maximum $50 for the day. Also It’s much safer in the parking garage than on the street.
Take advantage of the gocity pass. Depending on how long you stay there are many options to explore San Francisco 😊

Great Vibe around the area, sea lions in an abundance, great time had, great resturants to eat at reasonable prices

We visited Pier 39 in May of 2023. First thing we noticed is that it was packed with people. The pier is lined with shops and places to eat that charge an arm and a leg. Here's an examle....We bought a scoop of ice cream in a cup for each of us. It came to over 14 dollars! We couldn't wait to get out of there.

For those who like the crowds and like to spend money, and like trinket shops, this is the place for you.

if you want to enjoy the beauty of the bay, go someplace else.

This was the first time we had been down to this part of the city, in probably more than 10 years. The space between the pier and the old fisherman wharf sign has grown tremendously. There are still the standard tourist, restaurants and stores on the pier and there were even a few sea lions on the docks when we were there the day after Christmas.
Always very busy any holiday or summer time but lots to see within a mile walk along the bay and on their pier.

Very crowded place. Parking is expensive and difficult. Plenty of places to eat and shop. The sea lions are the best part of the pier but you’ll need to be patient and pushy to get close enough to see them and get pictures. Definitely worth a trip one time.

A to-go place for foreign and local tourist with shops and restaurant to dine, and place to walk around. It’s bit old and needs more up keeping to get better environment to walk around. Suggest to keep this place clean and safe for the tourist. So sad to see people sleeping in the streets. Since it’s a main tourist place, expect pricy goods and crowd.

Unfortunately, we went at the wrong time of year to see many sea lions, but it was still so cool to see them on the pier.
the shops and restaurants and things to see were great too, we spent a while wondering around.

Fun to walk through. You can get good photos of the Goldent Gate Bridge and seals. We at at Fog Harbor restaurant and it was delicious. It was fairly windy and a bit cold. We also got a nice latte at the Biscoff place and bought mini donuts which were delicious!

The pier is touristy. It’s kinda fun. The sea lions are the big thing for me. It’s fun watching them. There are informational signs. It was a beautiful day when I was there. Fun.

This is a very nice place that we really loved! The place where there are seals is essential! There are plenty of shops around and you can do great deals!

It was very good and beautiful! I could stay there for days😃 My family and I went out there many times to watch the sea and the seals. It was a fantastic experience😀

If you go to San Francisco, a visit to the pier should absolutely not be missed! a concentration of shops, restaurants and various attractions for all tastes!
I advise!

There is so much to see and do at Pier 39, from shopping, dining, amusements for children, wildlife, sea lions in particular and the pleasant walk along the docks and boardwalks.
The ferris wheel was there when I visited, plus there are attractions such as Madame Tussaud and Ripley's Believe it or Not if that is your preference.
The area can be very busy at peak times.

Visiting the iconic pier 39 at fisherman’s wharf is a must do when visiting San Francisco. Lots of variety of food and clothing stores and hopefully you will see some sea lions at the left hand side at the end of the pier. Great views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

A must-see in San Francisco: Pier 39 with its flagship attraction, the Sea Lions, which opened several years ago.
You will also find shops, boutiques, restaurants and the famous aquarium there.
Ideal for families with children

YES, go here when in San Francisco! It was such a joy to observe the animals hanging around the pier and swimming in the habor next to the pier. You can spice the wildlife experience up with an icecreme from one of the many nearby kiosks.

A wonderful place, touristic and full of attractions. Presence of various souvenir shops, Hard Rock Cafe, Bubba Gump and various restaurants. The view is beautiful and it is possible to admire the beautiful sea lions.
It was a very pleasant morning.

First of all parking: lots of close by parking but don’t leave valuables in the car (signs like this everywhere).
So much to see, to do, to shop and so many food options!
We went there for 4 hours (not enough) at sunset and it was so beautiful!
Bring a light jacket!
If you are lucky you will see the sea lions.
Also of note: it was clean! So clean! Surprisingly clean for such a busy place!

I live very close to San Francisco but I don't exactly visit enough. So I went to Pier 39 with my friends. I have visited San Francisco my whole life, so this place is all too familiar to me.

Go to Trish's Donuts for the best fresh little donuts ever. Walk along the main road to catch street performers, people selling art, and a bunch of other random activities in the carnival esqe alley. Don't forget to lookout into the water to catch a glimpse of some sea life as well. Seagulls, sea lions, and the average tourist is pretty much all the wildlife you will see. Maybe even a large rat if you are vigilant enough.

Its VERY touristy. But still worth coming. For a start there's the close up sea lion views.

There's various things here - a spinning drop ride, carousel, laser maze, mirror maze, "flyer", a musical staircase which plays notes as you go up and down, a bungee trampoline thing and of course loads of shops and restaurants, plus the aquarium too.

Worth a look.

It is a very nice place but it is always very crowded. Several souvenir shops, restaurants, activities and especially the view of the sea lions.Lemtree on site is free. You can also take a Ferris wheel ride with magnificent views of the city ($), play escape games or watch a 7d movie about San Francisco.

This is San Francisco's famous tourist hubs, with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, and many more. There are public parking lots in the area, so finding one should not be hard. As to the shops, they sell pretty much the same thing, so check out and compare the prices first before buying whatever you want. Don't forget to see the sea lions that have been visiting SFO bay since 1990 and try the popular clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. 😀

This is the main tourist area with lots of different souvenir shops, restaurants, etc. it’s got a Hard Rock & Bumba Gumps. This is also where you find the large heard of sea lions.

Who knew that watching sea lions is more fun than watching monkeys? They were so entertaining...they had us in stitches. This was the favorite part of the trip for my daughters. Don't miss finding them...there are a LOT of them at K Dock on Pier 39.

"A place to see"...thankfully I came early on a sunday; not too crowded. Not too many seals out, but there were a few napping on the docks.

Can't add anything to what's already been said. It's a must visit attraction, so good we went back a second time and really do recommend a visit.

This is another San Francisco must do. Super touristy but fun. Lots of interesting and entertaining stores from T-shirts and food to pets and refrigerator magnets. Arcade like environment with rides and food. Seals are almost always in the harbor.

Pier 39 is worth a visit - we were out of season, so not exactly packed with tourists.

Reasonable shopping - food and drink options.

Very relaxing

Iconic stroll through the city. Magnet Stores. Very beautiful view of Alactraz. Possibility of taking a short boat trip at bedtime for 20 dollars.

Built entirely of wood on the oceanfront Fisherman’s remains perhaps the most visited attraction in San Francisco, we have in fact walked I do not know how many times in the days spent in the area or to eat some typical dishes but also to buy gifts or various memories. Interesting to admire the sea lions resting and diving into the sea a few meters away, there are then stranger and more attractive shops such as technological ones or dedicated to socks and a thousand other objects, you can attend shows of magicians and entertainers or musicians performing on the pier. The sunsets over the bay with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background or the island of Alcatraz are a must, practically a continuous fun, except that in the evening the restaurants close between nine and ten.

During my stay in San Francisco I spent an evening and a whole morning in this place that I enjoyed for the restaurants, shops, entertainment and sea lions in the marina in front. Good restaurants, one Italian, the others of local cuisine based on fish, shellfish and the famous Breadbowl Chowder, that is, a custard soup of clams or crab served in a loaf of bread. Lots of people around, taking advantage of the warm October sun to observe pelicans in flight and seagulls in the background of the Alcatraz Penitentiary. Truly a great place to appreciate the best that the Californian city can offer in terms of entertainment!