If you’re leery of touristy spots, you might wonder if there are fun things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf and if it’s worth checking out. The answer is a resounding yes! Sure, it’s one of the most visited spots in San Francisco, but there’s good reason for that. This iconic waterfront district features history, stunning bay views, delicious dining, and unique attractions all in one lively area that’s fun for both locals and visitors.
So whether you’ve got just a few hours or the whole day, here’s what to do at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Experiences for Any Timeframe
When you look into just how much there is to do at Fisherman’s Wharf, you might ask yourself how long you should plan to spend in the area. Well, that’s up to you. Here are a few of the top things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf based on how much time you have available.
Just a Couple of Hours? Focus on Pier 39
Some visitors confuse Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, assuming that they’re the same thing. The fact is that Pier 39 is just one part of the larger wharf area, but because it’s where you’ll find many of the top attractions it gets a lot of attention. If you have just a short time to spend, visiting Pier 39 is one of the best things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Start With a Meal at Eagle Cafe: This favorite dining spot is a Bay Area icon, having opened its doors in 1928 up the street at Embarcadero & Powell. Serving up delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch favorites, it’s a can’t-miss way to start your day. Plus, you’ll enjoy unbeatable views while you dine!
- Visit the Sea Lions: No trip to Pier 39 is complete without stopping by the sea lion docks. These playful (and noisy!) residents have been sunbathing here since the early 1990s.
- Stroll Through the Shops: You’ll want a reminder of your time on Pier 39, so pick up a souvenir at one of the fascinating shops. An Alcatraz prison t-shirt or miniature cable car make great mementos.
More Time To Spend? Here’s What Else To Do
Now it’s time to dive into what things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf when you have more than just a couple of hours. In that case, venture beyond Pier 39 and spend more of your day at Fisherman’s Wharf exploring all it has to offer.
- Visit Hyde Street Pier: Here you’ll find a collection of historic ships for a glimpse of San Francisco’s storied maritime past. Walk the decks and step inside for an immersive experience.
- Check Out Musée Méchanique: This quirky museum houses one of the world’s largest private collections of coin-operated arcade games. Bring some quarters and try out these relics of the past.
- Stop by Ghirardelli Square: If you’ve got a sweet tooth, visiting the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is a must. Indulge in a hot fudge sundae and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this charming spot.
Spending the Day at Fisherman’s Wharf? Here Are More Great Things To Do
If you’re lucky enough to have more time, here’s more of what to do at Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Take a Bay Cruise: See San Francisco from a new perspective with a boat tour, and take in stunning views of the skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. Book a tour of the latter in advance if you want to visit the famed prison site.
- Discover the Aquarium: Back on Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay lets you walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks and rays. You can even get a hands-on experience at the touch pools.
- Catch the Sunset: Find a spot along the waterfront to watch the sunset over the beautiful bay, or better still, book a table at one of Pier 39’s top dining spots to take in the sight. It’s a breathtaking way to wrap up your day at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Final Thoughts
Believe it or not, these ideas have only scratched the surface of the many things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf. You may even need to plan another visit!
No matter how much time you have to spend on the Wharf, starting your exploration with breakfast, brunch, or lunch at Eagle Cafe is the perfect kick-off. From favorites like Chilaquiles to classic dishes like Clam Chowder in a sourdough bowl to delightful signature cocktails, our menu has something to please every palate. Stop by today and see why Fisherman’s Wharf and Eagle Cafe are must-visit spots in San Francisco.