Pier 39
Photo: Dllu · CC BY-SA 4.0
About
Entrepreneur Warren Simmons developed Pier 39 on the site of a former cargo pier and opened it on October 4, 1978, as a shopping and entertainment complex at the edge of the Fisherman's Wharf district. The pier's sightlines take in Angel Island, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge, all visible from its outer decks.
The pier became far more famous after California sea lions began hauling out on its marina docks in September 1989, in numbers that later peaked at close to 1,700 animals; the barking colony remains one of the city's most reliable free wildlife sightings. The Aquarium of the Bay and a two-story carousel are among the paid attractions layered on top of the free waterfront walk.
Because watching the sea lions costs nothing and the animals do not care what language a visitor speaks, Pier 39 tends to work as an easy, low-pressure outing for a family still adjusting to a new city, with paid options like the aquarium available if there is room in the budget.
Visitor information
Admission Walking onto the pier and watching the sea lions is free; the aquarium, carousel, and individual shops charge their own admission or prices.
Getting there The historic F Market streetcar line stops right at the pier, and it is within walking distance of the cable car turnaround at Fisherman's Wharf.
