Why go
Pier 39 is defined by the form, materials, and setting of Pier 39. Another layer comes from the sightlines that connect Pier 39 with its surroundings. Plan Pier 39 by remembering to confirm public access to Pier 39 and local conditions. After Pier 39, choose a geographic companion near Pier 39; this keeps Pier 39 geographically coherent and avoids forcing Pier 39 into an unrelated crossing.
What to look for
- Look closely at the form, materials, and setting of Pier 39.
- Notice the sightlines that connect Pier 39 with its surroundings.
The full story
The pier is located at the edge of the Fisherman's Wharf district and is close to North Beach, Chinatown, and the Embarcadero. The area is easily accessible via the historic F Market streetcars. California sea lions have always been present in San Francisco Bay. They started to haul out on docks of Pier 39 in September 1989. Before that they mostly used Seal Rock for that purpose. Ever since September 1989 the number of sea lions on Seal Rock has been steadily decreasing, while their number on Pier 39 has generally increased. Some people speculate that sea lions moved to docks because of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, but the earthquake occurred months after the first sea lions had arrived at Pier 39. It is likely that the sea lions feel safer inside the Bay.
Useful to know
- For Pier 39, confirm public access to Pier 39 and local conditions.
- Pair Pier 39 with a geographic companion near Pier 39 when the route and opening conditions align.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Outdoor visit · 30–45 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.