Head to the waterfront for thrilling rides, captivating street performers and plenty of souvenir shops. But the main draw has to be the resident sea lions.
The star attraction at Fisherman’s Wharf is the noisy colony of sea lions that live and play on the floating docks of Pier 39. Barking, belching, playing and sleeping, these amusing creatures are a big hit with both locals and visitors.
Living at the pier since 1989, marine biologists believe the area is popular with the sea lions because there is an abundance of food as well as the absence of natural predators in the form of orca whales and white sharks. Depending on which time of year you visit, they may be at the pier in abundance or be few and far between. In the summer months, they tend to head south to breed and give birth. A good time to see them is in the autumn – a record 1,701 were counted in the November of 2009!
When you’ve spent some time with the sea lions, head to the nearby Aquarium of the Bay. Its two clear tunnels hold an impressive collection of rays, octopi and sharks, all swimming alarmingly close!
Spread over two floors, Pier 39 is a shopping, entertainment and dining complex which has enough inside to keep you busy for much of the day. Kick back and relax on the many benches offering great views of the bay, or step aboard the Neptune for a 90 minute wine tasting boat cruise.
Located at the northern end of the Embarcadero, Pier 39 is next to Fisherman’s Wharf. You can reach the area on foot or by one of the many cable cars that run up and down the Embarcadero.
