San Francisco Sailing Destination: Pier 39
Although a tourist mecca and ground zero for the San Francisco waterfront sea lion population, Pier 39 still shines as one of the top overnight locations for visiting yachts.
To venture here from most of the central Bay marinas, the voyage is relatively short and very scenic.
Getting to Pier 39 requires navigating in from the north past Alcatraz Island, east past Fort Mason, or west if sailing from the Ferry building/Treasure Island area. When a strong ebb or flood is running, you will notice a significant set of your course either west or east as you approach the waterfront. It is wise to check your tide tables/aps and current predictions for the time you expect to arrive at Pier 39. This will help you plan your approach and might save you some fuel if powering for long distances.
Pier 39 is noticeable from the water as lying between the long, nondescript piers to the east and the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf to the west. You will notice two things upon your final approach:
~ The entrance to the west basin where the quest docks are located is behind an extending seawall just to the right of all the flags flogging over the hundreds of tourists heads watching you sail towards them.
~ There will be a cacophony of sea lion calls and belches heard from just inside the west basin.
A caution….. Be diligent about checking for Blue & Gold fleet vessels coming out of the west basin before entering! There is only enough room for ONE vessel at a time.
You might find a 600 lb sea lion waiting to greet you on your assigned dock (usually on “I” dock furthest from the entrance). The guest docks are great. They are very wide and at least 45 to 50’ in length. They have added new power pedestals and new rub-rail to all their guest docks.
After tying up, walk around to the north end of Pier 39 and you will find the Harbor masters office just on the east side to check in and get your keys. If after 1700 hrs. You will have to go to the guard/security shack located on the street directly in front of Pier 39 on the Embarcadero.
The walks from here are endless and in every direction you will find fantastic sights, sounds and smells of San Francisco's world famous waterfront. Or just stay close and people watch the thousands that walk by every hour.
Pier 39 requires advanced reservations. Click HERE for guest slip information Phone number is: 415 705-5557.
Pier 39 is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. Located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, this lively pier offers a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining options. In this blog, we’ll explore the history, attractions, and favorite restaurants of Pier 39.
History of Pier 39 Pier 39 was built in 1978, and since then, it has been a major tourist destination in San Francisco. It was originally designed as a modern urban market and shopping center, but it has since evolved into a multifaceted entertainment destination. Today, the pier features over 100 shops, restaurants, and attractions, including an aquarium, a carousel, and a variety of street performers.
Attractions at Pier 39 One of the main attractions at Pier 39 is the Aquarium of the Bay, a facility that houses over 20,000 marine animals from the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters. Visitors can stroll through underwater tunnels and observe a variety of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish.
Another popular attraction is the sea lion colony that resides on the western end of the pier. Visitors can watch as these playful animals bask in the sun and interact with each other on floating docks.
For those looking for a more interactive experience, there are a number of activities available, including virtual reality experiences, 7D cinema rides, and a mirror maze. Visitors can also take a spin on the pier’s classic carousel, which features 1,800 twinkling lights and 32 hand-carved horses.
Favorite Restaurants on Pier 39 Pier 39 is home to a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Here are a few of our favorites:
Fog Harbor Fish House: This restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and has a spectacular view of the San Francisco Bay. They offer a variety of dishes, including clam chowder, fish and chips, and Dungeness crab.
Boudin Bakery: This bakery is famous for its sourdough bread, which has been made using the same recipe for over 150 years. Visitors can watch as the bakers create their artisanal loaves, and then enjoy a sandwich or salad made with the bakery’s signature bread.
Eagle Cafe: This historic restaurant has been serving up classic American fare since 1928. The menu features dishes such as corned beef hash, chicken fried steak, and homemade apple pie.
Wipeout Bar & Grill: This lively restaurant is a great spot for drinks and casual dining. They offer a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as a full bar and outdoor seating.
Planning Your Visit to Pier 39 If you’re planning a trip to Pier 39, there are a few things to keep in mind. The pier can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s a good idea to arrive early and plan to spend several hours exploring the various attractions and restaurants.
Parking can also be challenging, so consider taking public transportation or a rideshare service to the pier. The F Market & Wharves streetcar and the Powell-Mason cable car both stop at Pier 39, making it easily accessible from other parts of the city.
Finally, it’s worth noting that many of the activities and attractions on Pier 39 have admission fees, so be prepared to pay for tickets for some of the experiences you want to have. It’s a good idea to check the pier’s website ahead of time to get an idea of what activities and attractions are available, and to plan your visit accordingly.
Conclusion Pier 39 is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting San Francisco. Whether you’re interested in