Pier 80 isn’t just a dock—it’s a cultural heartbeat. Once a gritty industrial hub, it now pulses with art galleries, pop-up markets, and breathtaking rooftop views over the bay. Sip coffee on a weathered bench, watch cargo containers transformed into vibrant installations glow under sunset light, and catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance—where urban grit meets poetic beauty

This hotel is the perfect blend of family-friendly and business-savvy! Located near Fisherman's Wharf, it's just a short walk to Ghirardelli Square and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. With childcare services and a game room, kids will have a blast while adults unwind with massages and facials. Don't miss the free evening reception to mingle with other guests, or relax at the bar after a busy day. The rooms are luxurious, featuring designer toiletries and Italian Frette linens—pure comfort!










Everything you need to know about Pier 80
The Embarcadero Hotel is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Pier 80. Its modern industrial design features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The hotel provides complimentary parking, 24-hour concierge service, and easy access to scenic waterfront trails and seaside cafés, making it ideal for travelers seeking a blend of urban charm and coastal serenity.
The most convenient option is taking the BART subway from SFO Airport to Embarcadero Station, a 30-minute ride, then a 5-minute walk to The Embarcadero Hotel. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft takes about 20–25 minutes depending on traffic. Both options offer reliable, comfortable travel with scenic views of San Francisco’s cityscape and bay en route, enhancing your arrival experience.
Though originally an industrial site, Pier 80 has been transformed into a vibrant urban oasis offering diverse outdoor experiences. Stroll or bike along the Embarcadero Waterfront Trail for stunning bay views and sunset vistas. Try guided kayaking tours to explore the harbor from the water. Weekends often feature outdoor markets and live street performances, blending art, food, and music—perfect for immersing in San Francisco’s dynamic culture.
Yes, the area around Pier 80 features a family-oriented urban park with interactive installations like large murals, climbing structures, and open green lawns perfect for kids to play. Nearby Marina Green Park offers shaded seating, picnic areas, and playgrounds, plus sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and passing boats. It’s an ideal spot for parents to unwind while children enjoy safe, engaging outdoor fun.
Head to The Ferry Building Marketplace, a 15-minute walk from Pier 80, featuring award-winning eateries. Must-try: Fort Mason Café’s California-Mediterranean breakfast and Milk Bar’s inventive desserts. For fresh seafood, visit Dungeness Crab Shack, serving freshly caught crab dishes with bay views. All restaurants emphasize locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the true essence of San Francisco’s culinary scene.
Pier 80 itself is a favorite among photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when golden light accentuates its steel structure. Head to the Embarcadero Promenade for reflections of the Golden Gate Bridge and moving boats. The open lawns and waterfront benches at Marina Green Park also offer ideal backdrops for portrait shots and skyline compositions—perfect for capturing San Francisco’s iconic light and atmosphere.
Near Pier 80, the top recommendation is The Embarcadero Hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront. This boutique hotel blends modern design with industrial-chic interiors, offering select rooms with panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and the distant Golden Gate Bridge. The rooftop lounge features live music and craft cocktails, perfect for evening relaxation with sea breezes.
For a more immersive harbor experience, consider Pier 80 Waterfront Apartments, ideal for families or extended stays. These apartment-style units include kitchenettes and private balconies, providing direct access to the marina atmosphere. With free parking nearby and multiple bus routes within a 30-minute walk, transportation is convenient. Whether you're watching ships depart, joining a sailing tour, or enjoying sunset views, this area delivers a genuine maritime lifestyle.
The easiest way from downtown San Francisco is taking Muni Bus Route 21 or Trolley Buses (Line 22) to the "Pier 80" stop—just a 15-minute ride. Alternatively, take the BART to Embarcadero Station and transfer to a free shuttle bus to the pier area. For a scenic option, walk south along Embarcadero Way (~25 minutes), passing waterfront views and historic buildings.
If driving, use Google Maps to navigate to "Pier 80 Parking Lot," with daily rates at $10 and credit card payment accepted. Weekends often feature Bay Wheels bike-sharing stations at the entrance, making cycling a sustainable and enjoyable choice. Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning light for photography or romantic strolls.
Pier 80 offers a rare blend of industrial heritage and vibrant urban life. Visitors can join sailing tours led by experienced captains, exploring San Francisco Bay with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island. The pier frequently hosts outdoor markets and art exhibitions, showcasing local sculptures, paintings, and handmade crafts—some even offer live creation workshops.
Don’t miss The Dockside Grind, a waterfront café serving specialty coffee and light bites with panoramic bay views. Evening jazz performances add to the laid-back charm. Nature lovers will appreciate the area as a prime birdwatching spot, home to gulls, ducks, and kingfishers. For deeper insight, book a nautical history tour to learn about the pier’s legacy and San Francisco’s port evolution.
Ultimately, Pier 80 is more than a dock—it’s a living museum where culture, nature, and city life converge.
Yes, Pier 80 offers several family-friendly amenities. A dedicated children’s play area features soft padding and shaded shelters, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy safe play. Nearby, free public restrooms and water fountains ensure convenience for caregivers.
Every Saturday afternoon, the pier hosts Family Day events, including hands-on craft workshops, storytime sessions, and mini maritime education talks led by local volunteers—perfect for learning through fun. The adjacent waterfront walking path is ideal for biking or jogging as a family, with benches and informational signage along the route.
Just steps away, Pier 80 Park provides picnic areas and open green lawns suitable for group gatherings. Seasonal events like family movie nights are held on the pier plaza, featuring outdoor screenings with projectors and blanket rentals. Overall, it’s one of San Francisco’s most welcoming urban oases designed specifically for families.
See what other travelers say about Pier 80

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 Axiom Hotel was an absolute delight! Right outside the door is the trolley bus terminal and subway station, making transportation to anywhere in San Francisco incredibly convenient. The hotel itself is spotlessly clean with a fresh, modern vibe. I was especially impressed by the spacious bathroom—so much room compared to other hotels I've stayed in. One standout feature is the water dispensers on every floor; you can refill your bottle anytime instead of relying on bottled water. It's eco-friendly, cost-effective, and super practical. For travelers who value convenience, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches like this, Axiom Hotel is a top-tier choice. I’d stay here again without hesitation.

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.

Had a fantastic stay at Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco! The room was the perfect size for solo travelers—cozy and well-designed, though couples with lots of luggage might want to keep that in mind. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk from Union Square and surrounded by great transit options, making exploring the city super easy. I also appreciated having access to a relaxed common area before check-in and after check-out—ideal for unwinding or waiting without rushing off. Plus, the $15 breakfast credit at the on-site café was such a nice touch; it made my mornings more enjoyable and added real value to the experience.

Hotel Zetta San Francisco is an absolute gem for the price. The value for money is outstanding—everything from the staff to the room amenities delivers more than expected. The service stands out: friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful from check-in to check-out. While the decor isn’t luxury-level, it’s clean, modern, and well-maintained—perfectly suited to its pricing. What truly impressed me was the bedding: incredibly comfortable, soft, and made for a restful night’s sleep. Located just steps away from public transit, it’s easy to explore downtown and nearby attractions. Plus, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. If you're looking for a cozy, convenient, and affordable stay in San Francisco without sacrificing comfort or service, this hotel is a top pick.

I stayed at Jackson Court during a busy trip that included a visit to Yosemite National Park. I checked in one day, left the next morning for Yosemite, and returned two days later to check back in. The staff were incredibly accommodating—they gladly stored my luggage while I was away, no questions asked. When I returned late at night, my room was ready and waiting, even Kate had been notified to greet me personally. It felt so thoughtful and welcoming after a long journey. The seamless experience made all the difference, especially with such a packed schedule. I truly appreciate how well-organized and guest-focused the team is—this hotel deserves every bit of its perfect score.

I had an absolutely wonderful stay at this hotel! The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment I arrived. Every morning, free coffee and hot cocoa were available in the lobby—such a nice touch. They also offered flavored water, which was refreshing and appreciated. There’s a washer and dryer on one of the upper floors, perfect for longer stays. My room came equipped with a microwave, coffee maker, blender, and fridge—great for preparing meals or snacks. The housekeeping team was also very kind and professional. The entire place felt clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. It truly felt like a five-star experience without the high price tag. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit San Francisco—highly recommend!

Staying at Inn San Francisco was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean, with every corner spotless and well-maintained—no dust, no mess, just pure comfort. The bed was incredibly cozy, making for a restful night's sleep and a refreshing morning. The staff were beyond friendly and attentive, always smiling and ready to help with anything. Their warmth made the whole experience feel personal and welcoming. The Wi-Fi connection was lightning fast—perfect for streaming or working remotely—and the air conditioning kept the room perfectly cool without being too cold. Parking was convenient, and the location is ideal for exploring downtown San Francisco. With great dining options nearby and excellent value for money, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back!

This backpacker hostel is a hidden gem in San Francisco—small but full of charm and great energy. Even though it's compact, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The owner is super friendly and organizes daily activities like local tours, game nights, and group dinners, so you never feel alone on your trip. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and the shared spaces are always tidy—definitely above average for a hostel. It’s perfectly located near public transit, just a short ride from major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: there’s a fantastic Hunan restaurant right downstairs—authentic flavors and great value. Just mention the hostel name when ordering, and you’ll get a discount! If you’re looking for an affordable, social, and well-run stay in SF, this place is absolutely worth booking. I’d definitely come back.

Staying at Green Tortoise Hostel was a fantastic experience! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the main attractions and right next to the BART station, making it super easy to explore San Francisco. The dorm rooms are clean, well-organized, and surprisingly quiet for a hostel. The beds were comfortable, and I slept really well. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local tips that made our trip even better. What really stood out was the value—affordable rates without compromising on quality or comfort. It’s perfect for budget travelers who still want a welcoming, social atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting SF, especially solo travelers or backpackers looking for a memorable stay.

I stayed at Rodeway Inn Civic Center for one night and was genuinely impressed. The location is super convenient—just a short subway ride into downtown San Francisco, with plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby, making it safe and easy to get around even at night. The room was clean, well-maintained, and the bed was comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The air conditioning worked efficiently without any noise issues. Staff were friendly and helpful during check-in, which went smoothly. For the price, this hotel offers excellent value for money—perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a decent stay. I’d definitely consider returning on my next trip to San Francisco and would recommend it to friends.

I’ve stayed at this hotel multiple times now, and it consistently exceeds my expectations. In a city like San Francisco where space and value are at a premium, the experience here feels truly exceptional. The staff is warm, attentive, and genuinely goes the extra mile—on one occasion, I was upgraded to a larger room with a stunning view, which made the stay even more memorable. The location is unbeatable: just steps away from Union Square, with easy access to public transit, shopping, dining, and major attractions. What stands out most is the incredible value for money—luxury amenities, top-tier service, and a welcoming atmosphere all wrapped up in one. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a home away from home. Definitely my go-to choice whenever I’m back in the city.
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