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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.
This hotel is a perfect choice for family trips! Located at Fisherman's Wharf, just minutes away from Hyde Street Pier and Ghirardelli Square. With a kids' play area and babysitting services, parents can relax at the fitness center or enjoy sailing. Free WiFi and a 24-hour business center make it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Unwind at the Blue Mermaid Restaurant for seafood or sip a drink at the bar. Rooms feature iPod docks and minibars, making you feel right at home!
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
Staying at Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, just steps away from the waterfront, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience and stunning ocean views. The building itself has such character—rich with history and charm—making it feel like you’ve stepped into a bygone era. All amenities are well-maintained and thoughtfully arranged, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. While the experience is fantastic overall, I’d recommend this hotel for solo travelers or couples seeking a quiet, intimate stay. It truly shines when you’re not sharing the moment with a big group. If you're looking for a memorable, authentic San Francisco getaway, this place delivers on every level.
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.
Staying at Hotel Zephyr Fishermans Wharf was a fantastic experience, especially because of the location just steps away from Pier 39. Even late at night, I felt completely safe—there was always a security guard stationed right in front of the hotel. The rooms are spacious, well-designed, and clean, with plenty of options to choose from. It’s clear that comfort and safety were top priorities in the design. I loved how convenient it was for exploring downtown San Francisco and nearby attractions. Highly recommend this place for travelers who value both comfort and security.
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.
The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.
We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.
On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
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