Pier 39

Pier 39 is one of the most visited attractions along San Francisco’s waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf. The two-level pier features a mix of souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, cafés, and family-friendly attractions, along with open views across the bay toward Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Street performers and sunset views add to the lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.

Its most famous residents are the California sea lions that gather on the floating docks at K-Dock. They are present year-round, but their numbers peak from fall through winter (September to April), when hundreds often crowd the docks. In late spring and summer, many migrate south for breeding season, so fewer remain at the pier during those months.