Neighbourhoods
Fisherman’s Wharf: sea lions, ships and the Alcatraz ferry
The back story
About Fisherman’s Wharf: sea lions, ships and the Alcatraz ferry
Fisherman’s Wharf is the city’s busiest waterfront, from PIER 39 and the Alcatraz ferry at Pier 33 to the historic ships of Hyde Street Pier and the cable car turnaround.
PIER 39 and Alcatraz
PIER 39 has the sea lions, the Aquarium of the Bay and the bay cruises; the Alcatraz ferry leaves from Pier 33 just to the east.
Hyde Street Pier
At the western end, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park keeps its historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, beside the Argonaut Hotel.
Come for the sea lions; stay for an Irish coffee at the end of the cable car line.
Ghirardelli and the Buena Vista
Ghirardelli Square stands above the waterfront, and the Buena Vista at Hyde and Beach pours Irish coffee where the Powell–Hyde cable car turns round. Lombard Street’s crooked block is a short ride up the hill.
Our advice: book Alcatraz first, then plan the rest of the Wharf around your ferry time.
Why it's on our list
- PIER 39 and Alcatraz
- Hyde Street Pier
- Ghirardelli and the Buena Vista
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Fisherman’s Wharf: sea lions, ships and the Alcatraz ferry before you go.