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Pier 39 is San Francisco’s playground of charm and energy—vibrant street markets, live music drifting through the air, and seaside cafés where every view feels like a postcard. Don’t miss the sea lions snoozing on the docks, or a scenic boat ride that takes you past gulls and golden light. Every second here feels like a scene from a dream.
Everything you need to know about PIER 39
Marriott San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf is a top choice, offering unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay from its rooms. Located steps from Pier 39, it provides complimentary shuttles to the pier and features a rooftop bar perfect for sunset cocktails while watching sea lions bask on the docks. Guests can also easily access the California Academy of Sciences and Sea Life Aquarium within walking distance, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts seeking authentic maritime experiences.
The most convenient option is taking the Muni Metro T-Third Line or N-Judah Line to the Embarcadero Station, then walking just 5 minutes to Pier 39. Alternatively, transfer at Civic Center Station from Powell Street to reach the pier via bus. For a scenic route, consider renting an electric bike along Market Street—this allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the Financial District and the Bay while cycling directly to the waterfront, ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, immersive journey.
Don’t miss the daily sea lion show between 10 AM and 4 PM, where dozens of Pacific sea lions lounge and play on floating platforms—perfect for photography. Enjoy live street performances featuring folk, jazz, and local artists throughout the day. For a unique perspective, take a bay cruise tour departing from the pier, passing by Angel Island and the Golden Gate Strait, offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t forget to explore the artisan markets and street vendors selling souvenirs, fresh crab cakes, and iconic San Francisco sourdough hot dogs, making it a sensory-rich experience.
Marriott Marquis San Francisco Bay Area is a top choice for its unbeatable views of Pier 39, Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco Bay. Just a 5-minute walk from the pier, this hotel offers panoramic windows in every room, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and bustling harbor life from the comfort of their accommodations.
The hotel also provides complimentary shuttle services to major attractions across the city, making it ideal for travelers seeking convenience and luxury. Don’t miss the rooftop garden—perfect for evening cocktails with a view of the illuminated city skyline and the iconic bay.
Nearby highlights include Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood Market, where you can savor fresh-caught lobster and oysters. The lively atmosphere, street performers, and sea lions on the docks make Pier 39 one of San Francisco’s most iconic experiences.
The easiest way to reach Pier 39 is by taking the Muni Metro Line 41 Embarcadero, which stops directly at "Pier 39" station—just a 15-minute ride from Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf. This convenient transit option connects well with downtown San Francisco’s main hubs.
Alternatively, rent a Bay Wheels electric bike near the pier; the ride takes only about 8 minutes and offers scenic views along the waterfront and past vibrant murals. For those who prefer walking, it’s a pleasant 25-minute stroll from Union Square, passing landmarks like the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park and Columbus Avenue.
Parking is available but limited—especially during weekends—so public transit or biking is strongly recommended to avoid traffic delays.
Must-try experiences at Pier 39 include watching the playful sea lions lounging on the wooden pilings—often barking and splashing in the waves. Take a harbor cruise to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island up close, offering unforgettable views from the water.
Don’t miss dining at Sea Lion Cafe, known for its signature salmon burger and chocolate lava bomb—a warm, gooey dessert that’s a local favorite. Live street performances by musicians and artists fill the air daily, with a special Friday night music festival featuring folk and jazz acts.
For photography lovers, visit the pier’s viewing deck at sunset—the golden hour casts a radiant glow over the bay and city skyline, creating perfect conditions for stunning shots. Also, pick up souvenirs like sea lion plush toys and limited-edition maritime pins as keepsakes of your visit.
Yes! Pier 39 is a top destination for families, featuring interactive exhibits like the Junior Sailor Adventure Zone, where kids role-play as young seafarers and learn navigation skills through hands-on games.
Just steps away, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park offers free admission and engaging touch-screen displays, plus a simulated ship bridge cockpit—ideal for children to explore maritime history in a fun, educational way.
Every Saturday afternoon, the Sea Lion Discovery Day features guided tours led by naturalists explaining sea lion behavior and conservation efforts—engaging and informative for all ages.
Family-friendly amenities include shaded picnic areas with stroller-accessible benches and restrooms. For a relaxed outing, book a family-friendly harbor cruise that includes kid-sized drinks, snacks, and interactive trivia—making learning about the bay both entertaining and memorable. The entire area is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, ensuring inclusive enjoyment for all.
See what other travelers say about PIER 39
The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk to Fisherman’s Wharf and super convenient for exploring downtown San Francisco. Even though the resort fee is included, the daily complimentary coffee in the morning was a nice touch and really made the day start right. The room was spotlessly clean, and while the showerhead is mounted from the ceiling (which takes some getting used to), everything else about the stay was excellent. Great value for the price, and I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area.
Stayed at the JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square and found the service to be decent overall. However, the soundproofing was disappointing—noise from the hallway and neighboring rooms carried through easily, which disrupted sleep quality. What really frustrated me was that I accidentally booked an extra night and wanted to check out a day early. Unfortunately, the cancellation policy didn’t allow it—even one day in advance—and I ended up losing nearly $2,000. It felt like a big waste, especially since no warning was given about the strict policy. A more flexible cancellation option would have made a big difference for unexpected changes. Would’ve appreciated better communication or options for guests facing minor schedule adjustments.
I was a bit nervous going in, having read mixed reviews online, but I couldn’t have been more impressed. This historic building has been thoughtfully restored with elegant, timeless decor that feels both classy and welcoming. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep—and our room was surprisingly quiet despite being in the heart of downtown. The shower pressure was outstanding, and the bathroom felt spacious and well-designed. The staff were exceptional, especially the team at the on-site restaurant who went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Right outside the door is a cable car stop, and there are multiple bus routes just steps away—getting around the city is effortless. Overall, this was a standout stay, and I’d absolutely book again without hesitation.
Staying at the BEI San Francisco, Trademark Collection by Wyndham was a fantastic experience. Located right in the heart of downtown, it’s incredibly convenient for both sightseeing and business trips—everything is just a short walk away. The room was spotless, modern, and designed with a clean, minimalist aesthetic that feels both professional and comfortable. Housekeeping was thorough, and I appreciated the courier pickup service, which made handling packages during my trip super easy. The hotel has strong security measures in place, which added peace of mind throughout my stay. One thing to note: the area around the hotel can get busy at night, especially with people experiencing homelessness. While the hotel itself is safe, I’d recommend avoiding long walks outside after dark, particularly if you're traveling solo. Overall, this is a top-tier mid-range option in a prime location—excellent value, great convenience, and very well-run. Definitely a solid choice for travelers looking for comfort and accessibility in San Francisco.
Staying at Hotel Union Square San Francisco was a great experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Union Square, making it super easy to explore shops, restaurants, and the iconic cable cars on foot. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and spotlessly clean, with all the essentials like a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee maker—perfect for both business travelers and tourists. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the rooftop bar more than makes up for it—amazing views, especially at night when the city lights sparkle below. There’s also a small convenience store nearby where you can grab water, sandwiches, soft drinks, pizza, and snacks—very convenient for late-night cravings or quick bites. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, always ready to assist. The only minor downside is that there are a few people experiencing homelessness on the sidewalk directly outside the hotel, which is something worth noting but doesn’t detract much from the overall stay. All in all, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a central location in San Francisco.
The property itself is a great stay overall—located right in downtown San Francisco, just steps from MUNI transit lines and surrounded by safe, walkable neighborhoods. I stayed nearly three weeks and really enjoyed the space, kitchen amenities, and cozy lounge area. It feels more like a home away from home than a typical hotel. That said, there's no on-site staff, so any issues aren’t addressed immediately. For example, late one evening around 7 PM, water started dripping from above into my closet. I reported it via text, and while they did call back to assist, the situation ended up requiring me to clean up the mess myself. They offered a room change, but with only two nights left, relocating wasn’t practical. So I had to manage it on my own. If you're looking for quick service, daily housekeeping, or immediate support, this might not be the best fit. But if you value independence, quiet comfort, and a central location without the usual hotel noise, this place delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer self-sufficiency and don’t mind handling small hiccups personally.
Staying at Hotel Bijou in San Francisco was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—right in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transit and all the major attractions nearby. The room was spacious, clean, and well-maintained, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. While I found it a bit challenging to communicate in English, the check-in process was smooth, and everything else went seamlessly. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt welcoming and peaceful. It's rare to find such a great value in this price range, so I’d highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting San Francisco.
Hotel Triton in San Francisco offers a fantastic stay overall—great location, clean rooms, and friendly staff. While the breakfast is quite simple, it's sufficient and satisfying for a quick start to the day. What really stands out is the excellent value for money, fast Wi-Fi, and the convenient access to public transit. The entire experience felt seamless and comfortable, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and plan to return on my next visit to the city.
Staying at Palihotel San Francisco was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a well-balanced mattress that made for a restful night’s sleep. Located just a short walk from the subway station, it’s super convenient for getting around downtown and exploring all the city has to offer. I loved strolling around the neighborhood in the evening—great vibe, plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The staff were welcoming and helpful, even upgraded my room without any extra charge. Clean bathroom, excellent hot water, and thoughtfully chosen toiletries added to the overall comfort. This place truly delivers great value for money. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit San Francisco!
Hotel Fiona is an absolute must-stay whenever I visit San Francisco. This artist- and writer-themed hotel offers a unique experience with each room thoughtfully designed around a different creative theme—walking into one feels like stepping into a living art exhibit. The lobby even has heating in the summer, which brings a smile to my face (after all, Mark Twain famously said 'The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco'). Despite that quirky detail, the hotel delivers comfort, charm, and excellent value. It's perfectly located, easy to get around, and consistently exceeds expectations. For anyone seeking a distinctive, inspiring stay with a touch of literary and artistic flair, this place is truly unbeatable.
Staying at Yotel San Francisco was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel strikes the perfect balance between modern design and warm hospitality. The moment I walked in, I was greeted with a sleek, inviting atmosphere that set the tone for the whole experience. My room was spotless, well-lit, and thoughtfully designed—compact but surprisingly comfortable, with a great bed and excellent soundproofing. Located just steps away from the metro, getting around downtown San Francisco was a breeze. The breakfast spread was impressive: fresh fruit, local coffee, delicious pastries, and plenty of options for every taste. What really stood out, though, was the staff—friendly, efficient, and always ready to help. Whether it was checking in early or asking for recommendations, they went above and beyond. It’s rare to find such a welcoming vibe in a city as fast-paced as San Francisco. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at SoMa House was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel is immaculately clean, quiet, and offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of San Francisco. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. I appreciated how welcoming they were, making me feel right at home. Location-wise, it’s perfect: just steps away from public transit and close to all the city’s must-see spots. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place delivers comfort, convenience, and excellent value. Would 100% stay again.
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