Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco: Discover the Top Attractions & Activities in this SF District

Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is a popular neighborhood on the northern side of the city. This neighborhood is home to some of SF's most famous attractions, such as Pier 39, the ferries to Alcatraz Island, and dozens of interesting and original shops and restaurants.

In addition, you will find a number of museums, such as the Maritime Museum, the Aquarium of the Bay, and the USS Pampanito. You will also find popular attractions such as Ghirardelli Square, and the Cannery in this exciting area.

Not surprisingly, this neighborhood initially got its name from some of its first inhabitants: the fishing community. They lived and worked here for a number of years.

Today, you will still find remnants of the fishing community around the neighborhood. However, tourism is now the key industry of this thriving San Francisco district. 

Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Table of Contents

• Is Fisherman's Wharf a Tourist Trap?
• Bay Cruises
• Ferries to Bay Area Destinations
• Shopping
• Attractions & Museums
• Tours
• More Activities
• Events
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• How to Get Here
• Parking

Is Fisherman's Wharf a Tourist Trap?

A question I often get about Fisherman's Wharf is if it is just a tourist trap. It all depends on how you look at it. Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is home to so many fun activities, from bay cruises to museums to family-friendly fun. The entire district is designed for you to enjoy our waterfront while you are here.

You could say that part of it is a tourist trap, and part of it isn't. You will find plenty of low-quality, high-priced restaurants mixed in with some outstanding places to eat. You will find low-end, cheap souvenir shops mixed in with shops offering higher-quality items.

When my family visits, they always want to head down to this district. I also enjoy it because I consistently try new activities, restaurants, and tours to find the best options for you when you visit.

Follow my advice below to find the best things to do, including where to find deals before you arrive, as well as the best places to eat and drink. If you are prepared before you arrive, you will not face any "tourist trap" issues.

There is SO much to see and do here. Click the links above to jump ahead to the section(s) that interest you the most.

>> Best ways to get from SFO to Fisherman's Wharf

Cruises Around the Bay

One of the most popular things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is to head out on the water for a cruise. There are so many options to choose from every day. 

The most popular is the standard 60-minute Bay Cruise. This one takes you around the SF Bay, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and back in just one hour. It's the fastest and easiest cruise on the list.

If you are looking for something more in-depth, you will have plenty of options, from those that last 90 minutes to up to 4 hours. The list below includes the most popular options, plus some of my favorites. 

Most of these cruises offer snacks or beverages on board. Depending on which ticket you bought, the drinks may be included. If they aren't, there is usually a cash bar. All offer bathrooms, and there is plenty of seating.

60-Minute Bay Cruise Adventure

As I mentioned above, this is the most popular tour overall. It runs several times daily and is offered by both the Blue & Gold and Red & White Ferry companies.

It's an hour-long tour that will take you from Fisherman's Wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge. You then cruise under the bridge a second time, past Alcatraz, and back to Fisherman's Wharf.

Click here for a recap of my most recent trip.

>> Find tickets for this cruise!

90-Minute Sailing Tour

The 90-Minute Sailing Tour leaves from Pier 39 three times a day. The tour is on a smaller, traditional sailboat called the Privateer that accommodates up to 30 passengers. This tour offers a close-up look at the waterfront attractions and includes two drinks with each ticket. 

>> Check availability for this tour.

Bridge to Bridge Cruise

The Bridge to Bridge Cruise is also a 90-minute cruise on a large boat. You will see top attractions and learn all about SF's history. It's operated by the Red & White Fleet Company. Click here to read about my experience on this cruise. 

>> Get tickets for this cruise.

California Sunset (or Twilight) Cruise

The California Sunset Cruise is one of my favorites. It's operated every day by the Red & White Fleet. This 2-hour cruise includes wonderful views, narration along the way, and a hearty appetizer buffet.

You can buy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on board.

It's called the Sunset Cruise during the Summer months (April-October) and the Twilight Cruise (November-March).

>> Find tickets for the California Sunset or Twilight Cruise.

Escape from the Rock

The Escape from Rock Cruise is a 90-minute cruise that includes additional time and information about Alcatraz. It does not stop at Alcatraz, but instead provides additional narration about this top attraction as you tour around it.

Unlike the other bay tours, you'll make a full circle around the island to see the prison from all angles as you listen to chilling tales about escape attempts and more.

>> Find tickets for the Escape from the Rock Crusies.

Sunset Sail on the Privateer

The Sunset Sail is another cruise offered on the Privateer. This 30-passenger sailboat leaves Pier 39 daily for this sailing trip.

In addition to plenty of seating to catch the romantic twilight views, your ticket also includes two beverages (champagne, white wine, beer, soda, or water). 

>> Get tickets for this sunset cruise.

Whale Watching

If you have never been whale watching, then this is one of the best things you can do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. Our whale watching cruises leave several times a day.

You will spend a couple of hours watching and waiting to see whales, dolphins, and other sea animals. Make sure to take advantage of this fantastic experience. 

>> Click here for more details on these tours, including which species you can see at the time of your visit.

Wine Tasting Cruise

Head out on the boat named "Wine Therapy" for a 90-minute sightseeing and wine tasting cruise around the bay. During your ride, you can purchase wine at the bar (no wine included in your ticket price).

The boat holds up to 24 guests and offers a more intimate experience aboard a classic yacht with spectacular views of the SF Bay and a friendly, professional guide who is knowledgeable about both the wines and the region.

The cruise runs most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the busy season.

>> Find tickets to go on the "Wine Therapy" wine tasting cruise.

Ferries to Destinations Around the Bay

You can also catch a ferry to places beyond San Francisco. All of the following ferries depart from Pier 41 in Fisherman's Wharf.

Angel Island

The Angel Island ferry will take you over to this large island for a day of outdoor fun. The cruise takes only about 30 minutes. You must buy a round-trip ticket, as return tickets are not sold on the island.

On the island, you can learn more about its history as an immigration station at its various museums. You can also hike, bike, picnic, and take beautiful photos of the gorgeous Bay Area.

>> Click here for information on visiting the island and the ferry schedule.

Sausalito

The most popular ferry from Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is to Sausalito. This quick ferry ride is another one of my favorites, as you get great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

It lets you off just to the north of downtown Sausalito, so you can easily walk to most activities and attractions in the quaint waterfront village.

You can also find a list of the best things to do in Sausalito here.

Tiburon

The third ferry from Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is over to Tiburon. This small seaside town is a short ride away, too.

It's smaller than Sausalito, but also offers some shopping and waterfront dining.

>> Click here for details on this ferry ride. 

Shopping in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

Shopping at the Cannery

Leavenworth and Jefferson Streets

The Cannery is another historical marker in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. It originally housed one of the largest canning factories on the West Coast. You can still see signs of the old factory in its courtyard.

This beautiful old building is now a place where you can grab some lunch, do a little shopping, or sit outside and enjoy a drink or two in the large courtyard with 100+ year-old olive trees.

>> Learn more about shopping at the Cannery.

Shopping at Ghirardelli Square

Beach and Larkin Streets

One of the best things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is to spend some time shopping at Ghirardelli Square. Here you will find about a dozen boutique shops and also several places to buy their tasty chocolates.

>> Click here for more information.

Shopping Along Jefferson Street

The shopping along Jefferson Street is where you will find T-shirts and other souvenirs. This is the area that I consider a tourist trap, as you will find high prices at many of these places.

However, they are convenient and perfect for small SF gifts if you are in a hurry and need to buy things quickly.

Shopping on Pier 39

On the Embarcadero at Grant Avenue

Another top place to go shopping is on Pier 39. On the pier, you will find several shops selling local goods. You will find souvenirs, gifts, and other fun items that will remind you of your time here in San Francisco.

>> Click here for more details about Pier 39.

Fisherman's Wharf Attractions & Museums

In addition to all the other things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco, you will also find a variety of fun attractions. They range from the family-friendly Aquarium of the Bay to the interactive Maritime Museum. 

Aquarium of the Bay

Pier 39

One of the best kid-friendly things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is the Aquarium of the Bay. This aquarium focuses on the plants and animals that live in the SF Bay.

This incredible aquarium allows you to take a close-up look at jellyfish and to see the animals from all angles in its walk-through aquarium. Click here for pictures and more information about visiting.

>> Find tickets in advance online.

Cartoon Art Museum

781 Beach Street

One of the newest additions to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is the Cartoon Art Museum. It recently moved from its downtown location in the SOMA District.

Here you will find original cartoon drawings from famous artists as well as some of the best Sunday morning comic strips. It's a wonderful place to visit for those who love cartoon art and comics.

>> Learn more about the tickets to the Cartoon Art Museum. 

Hyde Street Pier

2905 Hyde Street

NOTE: This historic attraction is currently closed for a massive restoration project, which involves completely rebuilding the pier. The estimated reopening date is 2027.

The Hyde Street Pier is home to five historical vessels. On a visit here, you will get the chance to see one of the first ferries to bring cars between Marin and San Francisco, which ran before they built the Golden Gate Bridge.

For a small fee, you can also step aboard three of the five boats for a closer look. You are also welcome to stroll up and down the pier at no cost.

>> Click here for pictures and to learn more. 

The Escape Game

145 Jefferson Street

Up for a thrilling challenge to work out in a group?

The Escape Game offers six different escape rooms, including ones you might expect, like a train car and a submarine, but also San Francisco-themed rooms such as Alcatraz Prison and a scene from the Gold Rush. 

Each puzzle is rated for difficulty, can accommodate up to 8 players, and allows your group to try escaping for up to 60 minutes with unlimited clues. 

You can reserve your tickets, game time, and room online or by phone. This activity is recommended for ages 13 and up. 

Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze

Pier 39

Get lost in Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze on Pier 39. This family-friendly attraction will test your patience as you hit dead ends, infinite hallways, and endless circles. How long will it take you to complete the maze? 

Maritime Museum

499 Jefferson Street

One of the best things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is to learn more about this popular district's history. The Maritime Museum takes you all the way back to the early days of this area and shows you how it became the famous district it is today.

Its interactive exhibits and videos will keep you engaged as you learn. This museum is free and open daily.

>> Click here for details on visiting. 

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum

175 Jefferson Street

You have always heard about Ripley's travels and discoveries; now is the time to see some of them yourself. This Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum offers you the chance to see what this early adventurer found during his travels.

You will see pictures, statues, and other exhibits that will get you wondering if they are real or not.

The museum is open every day except certain holidays. 

Sea Lions at Pier 39

Pier 39

One of the most fun and lively Fisherman's Wharf attractions is the sea lions on Pier 39. Watch from the pier as these large, playful creatures jockey for position on the docks and swim around the area.

They are loud and funny and offer a unique experience during your visit. 

SS Jeremiah O'Brien

Pier 35

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a Liberty Ship that was built for WWII. It is one of only two that still remain. The ship is open to visitors, and it gives you the chance to walk through most of this historic vessel.

>> Click here for pictures and more visiting details.

USS Pampanito

Pier 45

Another historic vessel on Pier 45 is the USS Pampanito. It's a WWII Balao Class Fleet Submarine.

During your visit, you will get to step inside most of the vessel's rooms to see how it was operated and what the living conditions were like onboard.

>> Click here for pictures and to learn more about what it's like to visit. 

Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco Tours

You will also enjoy the variety of tours in and around Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. These are some of the most popular options.

Alcatraz Tours

Pier 33

If this is your first visit to San Francisco, or if you have not yet had a chance to head to Alcatraz, then this is a must-do! This former federal prison was home to famous criminals including Al Capone and Robert "The Birdman" Stroud.

During the tour, you will learn all about these prisoners and other top events that occurred on the island. Click here for more details.

Here are some great combo tours.

Bike Tour Across the Golden Gate Bridge

Another one of the popular things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is to rent a bike and ride over the Golden Gate Bridge.

After you leave the district, you will ride along the SF waterfront, up and over the bridge, and then make your way to Sausalito.

From there, you have a choice to either ride back or return to SF on the ferry. Click here for more details on this tour.

>> Learn more about other cycling tours offered in SF here.

>> Buy tickets for the Bike Tour across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Electric Bike Tour

If you aren't quite ready for an entirely self-propelled ride over the bridge to Sausalito, then you should check out the electric bike option. These give you a battery-powered push, so you don't have to pedal the entire way.

In general, you need to be 16 years or older to use the bikes. A few companies allow riders who are a little younger, so ask around if someone in your group is under 16.

Keep in mind that you are not allowed to use the electric motor while on the Golden Gate Bridge. However, it's a great way to get up and over the hills without overdoing it along the way.

Fire Engine Tour

Starts at the Cannery

The Fire Engine Tour is a fun, family-friendly option. This 90-minute tour leaves from the Cannery in Fisherman's Wharf and takes you through the Presidio. You will then ride over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and back.

You then return to your starting location. Your one-of-a-kind open-air vehicle is a Big Shiny Red Mack Fire Engine.

>> Find tickets in advance on Viator.

Fisherman's Wharf Free History Walking Tour

Starts in Ghirardelli Square 

One of the best ways to really get to know the district is to head out on this weekly free walking tour. It starts in Ghirardelli Square, where you learn all about this famous chocolate factory and the man that created it.

You will then walk along the waterfront, stopping at specific locations as you learn the significance of each stop.

>> Click here for details on this and other free walking tours in SF.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours are another one of the popular things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. These bus tours allow you to hop on or off at any stop along the route.

It's an easy way to get to the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, and our famous Painted Ladies of Alamo Square.

>> Find options on GetYourGuide and book your tickets today.

More Things to Do Around Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

You will also find plenty of activities in Fisherman's Wharf. They range from family-friendly options to spending time sampling local wines.

Get Your Thrills at the 7D Experience / Flyer Thrill Zone

Located on Pier 39

The 7D Ride Experience is just one of the fun attractions offered at the Flyer Thrill Zone. It is part video game, part movie where all of the audience works together to destroy the bad guys.

The Flyer is a unique moving theater experience in which you strap into your seat, the floor drops away, and you soar into the air. You'll feel like you're really flying over SF's most famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Muir Woods, and more.

This space also offers three more activities: the Laser Maze Challenge, San Francisco-themed escape rooms, and virtual reality wingsuit diving.

>> Click here to learn more. 

Take a Cable Car to Union Square

Hyde & Beach and Taylor & Bay

During your stay with us, you MUST take a cable car ride. You can easily do this from Fisherman's Wharf to downtown San Francisco and vice versa. There are two lines that you can choose from.

The first is near the waterfront at Hyde & Beach. The second is back a few blocks from the water on Taylor and Bay. Both will take you to and from Union Square.

>> Click here for pictures and more details.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood at a Local Restaurant

You will find a variety of places to sample fresh seafood in the district. Some of my favorites include Scoma's (1965 Al Scoma Way) and the Fog Harbor Fish House (on Pier 39).

You will also find some great options throughout the outdoor market on Fish Alley (along Jefferson Street near Pier 47).

Soar with Frequent Flyers

Located on Pier 39

Frequent Flyers is a bungee trampoline that will safely take you up to 20 feet in the air. All jumpers must be between 30 and 230 pounds. You will find this fun activity at Pier 39. 

Entertain Yourself at the Musée Mécanique

Pier 45 

Musée Mécanique offers you the chance to play old-fashioned games. This arcade features coin-operated games as old as the late 1800s, as well as popular video games from the 1980s and 90s. It's free to enter, but you must pay to play the games.

>> Find out more about this fun attraction

Compose with Your Feet on the Musical Stairs

Pier 39

Act like a kid again on the musical stairs on Pier 39. These stairs feature both sounds and lights, so you can create new music each time you step on them. This free activity is open during regular Pier 39 hours.

Have Fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade

Pier 39

If you love sports and modern video games, then you must spend some time at Players Sports Grill & Arcade. They have over 30 screens with live sports, 80+ games in their arcade, and plenty of food and drink to keep you busy all day long.

It's near the waterfront (with views!) on Pier 39. 

Ride the San Francisco Carousel

Pier 39

One of the highlights of Pier 39 is its historic carousel. It's a working carousel, so both your kids and you can hop aboard for a ride. Watching it colorfully spinning away during the day or at night is also fun. You will find it in the central plaza on Pier 39.

Savor Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl

One of the most popular dishes in this district is Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl. My favorite place for this is Boudin Bakery (you can't miss it on Jefferson Street).

I also love checking out the selection along Fish Alley. Most of it is white, creamy New England chowder.

>> Click here for more of my favorite places to enjoy clam chowder in SF.

Sample Ghirardelli Chocolates

If you are near the western end of Fisherman's Wharf, make sure to stop by one of the shops at San Francisco's historic Ghirardelli chocolate factory to sample their amazing chocolates.

Usually, during the day, someone will greet you with a sample square. You can then either buy more, sit down for an ice cream treat, or continue to stroll around the plaza and the other retailers at Ghirardelli Square. 

>> Find out what else Ghirardelli Square has to offer.

Sip Irish Coffee at Buena Vista Cafe

The Buena Vista Cafe is the first location in the US to serve up Irish Coffee. In the decades since they started serving it, they have now become famous for this tasty treat.

If you plan only to have one of their famous Irish Coffees, then step up to the bar to order there.

You can also grab a seat at one of the family-style tables (shared with others) to order a meal.

>> Click here for more details on the Buena Vista Cafe. 

Take in the Views Along the Waterfront

Another one of the fun things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is just to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. This district gives you some great views of Alcatraz Island and Angel Island.

You can also see the Golden Gate Bridge and many other waterfront attractions.

I recommend making the journey down the Aquatic Park Pier that juts into the bay, where you can get an even closer look at these attractions as well as a look back at the waterfront district itself.

Play with Puzzles at Solve It! Think Out of the Box

Pier 39 

This store and activity area features wooden games that will challenge your mind. It's a fun place to spend time with your kids or those who love mind-bending games. You will find it on the upper level of building P on Pier 39. 

Watch the Street Performers

Throughout Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

Another fun thing about Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 San Francisco is the street performers. Every day, there is a new mix of people, from those creating artwork to those dressed up and ready for pictures. You will find them all along Jefferson Street. 

Taste Local Wines

You'll find a great place to go wine tasting in Fisherman's Wharf called Winery Collective. It's on the western side of the district near the Argonaut Hotel at 485 Jefferson Street and the cable car turnaround.

It's a great place to sample some local wines! 

>> Click here for more wine tasting recommendations throughout SF.

Annual Fisherman's Wharf Events

You will also find a variety of events in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. Some of them are daily performances, and others are impressive annual events that draw in hundreds of thousands of people.

Sea Lions Arrival Celebration

Pier 39

Every January, Pier 39 invites you to join them to celebrate the arrival of the sea lions. These playful creatures started arriving shortly after the 1989 earthquake and continue to come back each year.

The event is free. 

Tulipmania

Pier 39

Pier 39 is also the location for Tulipmania. For two weeks in February, the area around the pier will be covered with thousands of beautiful and stunning tulips.

They also offer daily free walks that leave the entrance at 10 am. All activities are free.

Waterfront Fourth of July Celebration

All of Fisherman's Wharf

The Waterfront Fourth of July Celebration is the biggest celebration each year in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. Around 200,000 people descend yearly on the waterfront for a day full of fun activities, live music, and food.

The day ends with an explosive fireworks display that starts at 9:30 pm. 

>> Click here for details. 

Daily Shows on the Carousel Stage

Pier 39 

Head over to Pier 39 for the daily shows on their Carousel Stage. Every day, they offer free performances from jugglers to comedians. The shows are free, and there are several each day.

Fleet Week

All Around Fisherman's Wharf

One of the year's most impressive events is the Fleet Week celebration in October. Over the weekend, two air shows almost always feature the world-famous Blue Angels.

You are also able to step aboard and check out several US Naval Ships.

>> Click here for details on this year's event.

Live Music at the Entrance to Pier 39

Pier 39 Entrance

Every day, you will also find live music at the entrance of Pier 39. Throughout the day, you can stop by to enjoy local musicians for free. There is no need to register in advance. The performance schedule changes daily. 

Pier 39 Tree Lighting Ceremony

Pier 39 Entrance

Another one of the fun things to do in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is the annual tree lighting at Pier 39. This fun celebration is always the weekend right after Thanksgiving.

After the ceremony, the tree will stay lit until after the New Year. Click here for details on this tree lighting ceremony and others in SF.

Fisherman's Wharf Hotels

If you are spending most of your time at Pier 39 or in the Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco neighborhood, then your best bet is to book a hotel nearby. There are hundreds to choose from, including famous hotels such as the Marriott and the Courtyard. Other great hotels, such as the Argonaut or the Wharf Inn are also in the area.

Learn More: Fisherman's Wharf Hotels

Vacation Rentals Near Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf Restaurants

There are dozens of restaurants in the Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco neighborhood. You will find everything from grab-and-go places to more upscale sit-down restaurants. Here are just some of the great places to check out during your visit.

• Buena Vista Cafe: This café is an institution in San Francisco. It's known for bringing Irish Coffee to the US. In addition, stop by for some delicious American food served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. See pictures and a recap from my most recent visit. It might even look familiar, as it was featured in the movie "When a Man Loves a Woman" starring Meg Ryan and Andy Garcia.
• Capurro's: This classic restaurant has been open since 1946 and has some of the best Dungeness Crab you will find anywhere. They are proud of their handmade plates of ravioli, which come from a recipe that goes back 3 generations. Even with their family recipe, you'll always get something a little different as they use only the freshest ingredients. You will want to try it every time you visit SF.
• Fresh Fish Stands: If you are looking for something quick, I recommend heading over to the open-air stands near the Fisherman's Wharf sign on Jefferson Street. Here you will find a line of stands with fresh seafood, including crab, chowder, and other seasonal specialties.
• In-N-Out Burger: If a burger and fries are your favorite, then you have to stop by In-N-Out Burger. It is a California fast food chain that serves fresh burgers, fries, and shakes. It is almost always busy, but their food is yummy, and the service is fast, so it is worth visiting here. 
• Scoma's: On the other end of the spectrum is Scoma's. This is a higher-end seafood place tucked away near the water on Pier 47. Their menu is almost all seafood, but they do have some great steaks and other specialties for those looking for something different. Some of their tables also have great views of the bay.
• Boudin Bakery: I know I mentioned this above, but I need to write about it again. If you are looking for some great New England-style clam chowder in the best sourdough bread bowl you've ever had, then head over to Boudin Bakery on Jefferson Street. It's a lively environment, and you can watch the bakers craft the bread right in front of your eyes! 
• The Crab Station at Fisherman's Wharf: Another great grab-and-go seafood place is The Crab Station at Fisherman's Wharf. This small place is set right along the water and is very affordable. I recommend trying the crab sandwich or the crab strips. 
• Ghirardelli Square: If you head over to Ghirardelli Square, you will find a many great places to eat. My favorites are the San Francisco Brewing Company, a brewery with great pub food, and McCormick and Kuleto's Seafood Restaurant, a higher-end restaurant with some great views of the San Francisco Bay. 

>> Additional places to eat around Fisherman's Wharf

How to Get to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

There are a number of transportation options to get to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. Below is a map showing you some of the main stops for most opportunities. The star on the map is Pier 39. The heart is where the ferry picks you up for Alcatraz Island.

Streetcar from Union Square

The F Streetcar is a popular option to get from Union Square to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. The numbers "1" and "4" on the map above show you two of the most used stops along this line. 

• #1 (Embarcadero and Stockton Streets) is almost directly in front of Pier 39. 
• #4 is just about a block north of where the ferry picks you up for Alcatraz. 

This streetcar picks up all the way along Market Street and runs about every 15 minutes. It will take you about 20 to 25 minutes to get here.

>> Additional tips to get to and from Fisherman's Wharf and other districts

Cable Cars from Union Square

Both the Hyde-Powell and the Mason-Powell cable car lines end in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. #2 is the end of the line for the Hyde-Powell line (my favorite since you get some of the best views from the steep SF hills along the way!). #3 is the end of the Mason-Powell line. 

Find out more about both of these lines and other San Francisco historic cable cars. You'll also find some tips on where to hop on, how much they cost, and simple route information for each one. 

San Francisco Taxi or Uber/Lyft

You can also take a taxi to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco. You can pick up a cab anywhere in the city or use an app to get an Uber/Lyft. It will cost you about $15 to $20 from Union Square. Learn more about taking one of the taxis. 

From SFO Airport

Many of you will come directly to this neighborhood from the airport to check into your hotel. Here are your best options to get here from SFO.

Taxi or Uber/Lyft: This is the best option if you have a lot of luggage, are in a hurry, or aren't on a budget. Taking a taxi costs around $55 - $70 (+ tip). This will vary based on the time of day you arrive but, it is a reasonable average estimate.

BART, then transfer: If you are traveling light, our BART metro system is an efficient and cheap way to get into the city from SFO. It costs just under $11 one way per person to get to the Embarcadero station. From there, you can either take the F streetcar for $3 more, or take a taxi, Uber or Lyft to reach Fisherman's Wharf. This option will take about an hour.

>> Use this page for a complete list of all of your options to get from SFO to Fisherman's Wharf

Parking at Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

If you plan to drive to Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco, you will find plenty of places to park. I do recommend planning ahead as it can get confusing with so much car and foot traffic. Here are the best places to park throughout the district.

Pier 39: There is a garage right across the street from Pier 39. It's located on the eastern end of the district and is the perfect place to park for those visiting Pier 39, Boudin Bakery, or cruises around the Bay. You will also get one hour of validation if you eat or buy at certain stores on Pier 39. You must have your ticket validated before you leave the restaurant. The best entrances for the garage are on Beach Street (100-172 Beach St).

Wharf Garage: This large parking lot has room for more than 250 cars. It's located at 350 Beach Street and is perfect for those heading to Pier 39, Ripley's, or anything along Jefferson Street. 

Hyde Beach Garage: This parking garage is on the western side of Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco at 655 Beach St. They also offer valet service as well as EV Charging Stations.

Ghirardelli Square: This is another large lot with space for almost 350 cars. It's under Ghirardelli Square and offers self-parking 24 hours a day. It's best for those visiting Ghirardelli Square, the Cartoon Museum, and other places on the district's western end.

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