If you are in San Francisco, and want to see the interesting places, then the Fisherman’s Wharf is the best spot for you to visit. It is one of the busier tourist areas, especially during the day, and people come here from over the year. Most of the visitors come here to taste some sea foods, watch the sea lion near the water side, and walk along the waterfront. Some visit there with their families, friends, or some come here alone to spend some quality time by the bay. From the street function and local markets to unique places and boat rides, the area is full of energy from the morning to night. Now in this guide, you will find everything which you need to know about Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, including its top attractions, things to do, and food area, best time to visit and important tips.
Where Is Fisherman’s Wharf Located?
Fisherman’s Wharf is situated on the northern waterfront, next to the San Francisco Bay. It covers Jefferson Street and Beach street, which starts close to Ghirardelli Square and ends at Pier 35. This place is very easy for all the visitors because most of the known places like Lombard street, North Beach, and Pier 39 are close by. Thanks to its main area, you can easily get to Fisherman’s Wharf by cable car, bus, or taxi or even you can easily arrive there by walking if you stay around this place.
History of Fisherman’s Wharf
The history of this place began in the 1800s, when the italian fisherman first settled here. They used wooden boats to grab the fishes and sell them in the public area. After some time, this place was changed into a busy fishing space. And now, this place has become the best spot for all the visitors. Gradually, there restaurants, and gift shops started to show up, this turned it into the most visiting place it is today. Even now, you can still see fishing boats and seafood stalls that recall all the visitors about the past history of this place.
Top Attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf
The top Attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf, which you must see at once.
Pier 39
Pier 39 is the main spot at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco and the must visiting spot for all the visitors. There you can see the sea lions and water animals. Most of the visitors come here to watch them play, bark and rest, which is mainly enjoyable for all the families and kids. There you also get the restaurants, cafes, and gift shops, which make your trip more exciting. The fee for entry in this place is totally free of cost, Also, you can arrive there by bus or cable car.
Ghirardelli Square
The Spot is a history area around the Fisherman’s Wharf. In the past year, this place was a chocolate area, but now it is a well known park with all the facilities. The main thing is that all the visitors can enjoy the ice cream and chocolate treats. No entry fee is required to visit there. There you can simply arrive by walk or by cable car. Most of the people visit this place for rest, enjoy the view and take some memorable pictures with their cameras.
Musée Mécanique
Musee Mecanique is a unique place at Fisherman’s Wharf. This place is home of a huge collection of antique arcade games and coin-operated machines from the past 1900s.There you can visit and play these games, which make your trip more exciting. No entry fee is required, but you need coins to play this game. You find this gallery around Pier 45 and you simply arrive there by walking from other places.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
This old park is best for all the visitors who want to explore the maritime history of Fisherman’s Wharf. There you can see the old ships, visitor center and maritime galleries. Some ships can be put up with tickets, while others can be viewed from outside for free. The place is well-maintained and you can easily arrive there by walking or using public transport.
Best Things to Do at Fisherman’s Wharf
There are so many activities available to enjoy in this place, which make your trip more exciting.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Taste the fresh marine food there is the best thing to do at Fisherman’s Wharf. This place is known for its clam chowder offered in sourdough bread bowls, fresh crab, shrimp, and fish. So many stalls sell their seafood that is well cooked and fresh. The price option all depends on the dish, but you can find both reasonable and high price dishes, which you want to eat depends on you.
Take a Bay Cruise
A cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf is a memorable experience for all the visitors. This cruise passes under the Golden Gate Bridge and circle around Alcatraz island. The price of the ticket all depends on the type of cruise, but basic tours are reasonable. This is the best way to enjoy the beautiful views and take some pictures in the camera.
Visit Alcatraz Island
Visiting Alcatraz Island is the best place for sun activity around the Fisherman’s Wharf. This place is known for its history, which you definitely explore. Ticket options include a ferry ride and an audio tour. Prices are higher than regular tours, so book your tour in advance. Ferries take off from around the piers, which make it very easy for all the visitors to keep around the Fisherman’s Wharf.
Walk Along the Waterfront
Walking around the waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf is a very easy but fun way to enjoy this place. There you can see the boats, enjoy sea views, and see the street functions. Entry is free and best for all the people who want to spend some time with their loved ones.
Best Time to Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
The best time to visit Fisherman’s Wharf is all dependent on you, but most people visit there during the late spring to early fall. At this time the climate condition was good and most of the nearby places are open, so you can easily explore all the places. However, during the summer it is more crowded there. If you want to spend some time in a calm area without any hassle then visit in the early morning or during the weekdays. The winter month is cooler but still the best option for visiting there. If you want less crowd and reasonably priced rooms, then winter is the best option for you.
How to Reach Fisherman’s Wharf
Arriving in the Fisherman’s Wharf is very simple due to its right transport options.
By Cable Car
The Cable car line is a well-known and best way to arrive in this place. From there, you can easily see the best views and experience this place.
By Bus or Tram
So many buses and streetcars are directly connected with different parts of the city to Fisherman’s Wharf, this option is very easy and cost-effective.
By Car
You can also arrive there by car, but the parking options are limited there. so, the best option is using public transport, which is a better option for you.
Where to Eat at Fisherman’s Wharf In San Francisco
If you talk about the food, then this place is best for you. Here are some points, which you must try at once.
Popular Seafood Restaurants
This dining space at Fisherman’s Wharf is known for their clean foods. There you can visit to try some new style foods, which you have never tasted before. Their restaurants offer the best food items like clam chowder, crab, lobster and so many seafood options, which you must try there. Most of the people visit there by walking easily without any hassle. Also, if you want to taste the best seafood then definitely check out this place.
Casual Street Food
Casual Street food is a good option for all the visitors who want quick and yummy food. At this place there you can easily get the seafood, cups, snacks and sandwiches, and dessert in local stalls. These options are mainly reasonable and allow you to eat when you explore these places. There you can easily get the local street stalls over the city.
Shopping at Fisherman’s Wharf
Shopping at this place is just more than fun and comfortable. There you will easily find the best markets, gift shops, and art galleries, which sell the famous items of this place.
Souvenir Shops
These shops sell things like magnets, T-short, mugs, and postercards, which you must experience. The price options are reasonable, so you can easily visit there and buy the best gift for your loved ones.
Local Art and Craft Stores
Some stores focus on handcraft work items, local artwork, and different types of works. These stores are great if you want something special.
Where to Stay Near Fisherman’s Wharf
When you visit Fisherman’s Wharf San Francisco, then the first question that comes to your mind is where you should stay.So, Here are some options that you should check out when you visit there.
Budget Hotels
Around the Fisherman’s Wharf there you can also find the best budget resealable hotels with all the facilities. This option is best for those who want to spend some time without paying too much.
Mid-Range Hotels
If you choose the Mid-Range hotels, then there you get all the amenities, clean rooms, in the best locations. However, these hotels are best for families and couples.
Luxury Hotels
Luxury hotels around the Fisherman’s Wharf provide the best service, bay views and comfortable rooms. These rooms are good for those who want more comfort with all the amenities.
Safety Tips for Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf
This spot is safe, but still you have to follow some safety tips there for a comfortable trip.
- Watch around the place, mainly in busy places.
- Keep you things safe, especially in the crowded places
- Don’t walk alone in a quiet spot after the sunset
- Be careful and follow the all the rules when crossing the road
- Make sure you have an urgent number during the trip.
Travel Tips for Fisherman’s Wharf
Here are some things, which you should carry before the trip
- Wearing shoes that are good for walking
- Bring a light jacket as per climate condition.
- Arrive early to avoid busy times.
- Make sure to book your Alcatraz tickets early.
- Use public transport in place of driving.
- Keep some cash for small stalls and games.
- Plan your day to cover nearby attractions together.
Final Thought
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the most exciting places that show the spirit of the city. With its history, well-known places, yummy seafoods, and beautiful waterfront views, you get everything in this place, which you want to explore. Whether you are visiting for a day or staying around the place, still Fisherman’s Wharf has good options to make your day special. If you want to enjoy the best of San Francisco in one spot, then Fisherman’s Wharf should be definitely on your wish list.