A complete guide to San Francisco’s popular tourist spot “Fisherman’s Wharf”!

Fisherman's Wharf is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in San Francisco. Originally a bustling waterfront for unloading seafood, it has evolved into a world-renowned gourmet spot, lined with restaurants serving fresh seafood that has captivated tourists from around the globe. Beyond the delectable cuisine, Fisherman's Wharf offers a plethora of attractions including Pier 39 for shopping, an aquarium, game centers, a chocolate factory, and more.

In this article, we will delve into the highlights and ways to enjoy Fisherman's Wharf to the fullest.

What is Fisherman's Wharf?

San Francisco, a once small settlement with a population of only 200, transformed into a bustling metropolis following the California Gold Rush of 1848. It is said that the foundation for the current Fisherman's Wharf was laid by Italian immigrant fishermen who arrived by sea during this time.

As its name suggests, "Fisherman's Wharf," this area was once a bustling hub for fishing vessels, where freshly caught seafood was unloaded.

Over time, numerous seafood restaurants opened their doors, serving the abundant catch, and Fisherman's Wharf gradually evolved into a renowned culinary destination.

While the term "Fisherman's Wharf" typically refers to the area north of Pier 35, in recent years, this district has expanded beyond seafood to encompass a wide range of attractions, including shopping malls, aquariums, and even small amusement parks.

Despite these developments, the harbor remains operational, and visitors can observe the fish unloading process near Pier 47. A popular itinerary involves an early morning visit to the harbor, followed by a seafood breakfast, some shopping, and then capping off the day with a seafood lunch—a truly indulgent experience!

At Fisherman's Wharf, start with Pier 39, where you can find everything.

The main area of Fishermen's Wharf is "Pier 39." As the name suggests, this is a shopping mall built on the 39th pier. With a collection of restaurants, souvenir shops, and attractions, it's always bustling with tourists.

◆Be Amazed by the Sea Lion Colony!

According to locals, sea lions started congregating in this area around 1989, which is thought to be due to the Loma Prieta earthquake that struck northern California in the same year. The sounds of sea lions fill the area around the pier, creating a unique scene.

The sight of sea lions packed tightly on a raft is truly impressive. Since most of the sea lions leave during the summer breeding season, if you want to see a large colony, it's best to visit in autumn or later.

◆Souvenir Hunting at Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe, a popular casual dining spot with over 100 locations worldwide, is hard to miss on Pier 39. Its exterior, featuring a guitar—the store's symbol—is a popular photo spot.

A must-get here is the local pin badge, which has a worldwide fan base. There are several San Francisco-exclusive designs, featuring landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and the Pier 39 sea lions.

You'll also find a wide range of other souvenirs perfect for gifts, including local T-shirts, keychains, socks, and teddy bears.

◆Experience a Variety of Attractions

Pier 39 offers a wide range of attractions, from child-friendly options like an aquarium, merry-go-round, mirror maze, street performances, and cycling, to adult-oriented attractions such as wine tasting, 7D attractions, and jet boat rides.

One highlight is the 3D attraction "The Flyer San Francisco." This ride takes you on a virtual flight over San Francisco, allowing you to experience the thrill of soaring through the sky as the seats move and wind blows in sync with the visuals.

There is no age limit as long as you are 40 inches (about 102 cm) or taller. Adult tickets start at $14 US. There are also various packages available for online purchase that combine multiple attractions, such as a 7D ride, laser maze challenge, and escape game.

Indulge in the famous clam chowder at Boudin

While clam chowder is synonymous with San Francisco, its origins actually trace back to New England on the East Coast. In San Francisco, it's customary to serve clam chowder in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl. You can find it at food stalls and restaurants throughout the city.

Boudin, a bakery founded by French immigrants, is credited with popularizing the San Francisco-style "bread bowl." The slightly tangy sourdough pairs perfectly with the creamy clam chowder. Don't miss this opportunity to savor the authentic flavor.

Must-try recommended gourmet dishes

◆Dungeness Crab

The "Dungeness crab" depicted on the sign at Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's specialties. In the United States, it is called "Dungeness crab" after the port town of Dungeness in Washington State where it is landed.

From simple boiled crab to whole roasted crab, pasta, soup, and roll sandwiches, the menu is diverse. While you can easily enjoy it at a food stall, why not visit "Fog Harbor Fish House" at Pier 39, a specialty crab restaurant?

Although you can enjoy Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf any time of the year, the fishing season is only open for seven months from late November to late June. If you want to try local Dungeness crab, it is recommended to visit during this period.

◆Cioppino

"Cioppino" is a tomato-based soup filled with plenty of seafood. It is a San Francisco local dish created by Italian immigrants and is recommended for those who find "creamy clam chowder a bit difficult."

Among them, the cioppino at "Scoma's," a long-established restaurant at Pier 47, is absolutely delicious! Using fresh seafood landed at the wharf in front of you, the flavor of the ingredients is rich and the meat is satisfying. The popular pasta, fresh oysters, and clam chowder are also worth checking out!

◆Fish and Chips

While fish and chips are a popular fast food in the UK, it's not as widely available or as popular in the United States. However, "The Codmother Fish & Chips" is an exception. Their fish and chips is so addictive, everyone is sure to love it.

The thick piece of cod is packed into a crispy batter, making it very satisfying. The fresh cod is odorless and the flesh is incredibly fluffy. It goes well with both beer and cola, making it the perfect on-the-go snack.

Access information to Fisherman's Wharf

By rental car or taxi, it takes about 30 minutes to reach Fisherman's Wharf from San Francisco International Airport.

While San Francisco has a comprehensive public transportation system including subways, trams, buses, and cable cars, the cable car is definitely the recommended way to get to Fisherman's Wharf. Two of the three cable car lines go to Fisherman's Wharf.

Powell-Hyde Line (Blue): Powell Station to the intersection of Hyde Street and Beach Street (Western side of Fisherman's Wharf)

Powell-Mason Line (Red): Powell Station to the intersection of Taylor Street and Bay Street (Turntable near the central south of Fisherman's Wharf)

The fare is $8, which is a bit expensive, but it's a San Francisco must-do, so you should ride it at least once. It might be a good idea to purchase a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day unlimited ride ticket for better value.

◎For a sweet treat, head to Ghirardelli Square!

If you walk west from the Powell-Hyde cable car line's terminal, you'll spot the brick-built Ghirardelli Square. This was once a chocolate factory, but it's now a shopping center filled with cafes where you can indulge in chocolate treats and souvenir shops.

At the on-site cafe, you can enjoy ice cream, parfaits, sundaes, shakes, and more. They also sell chocolate bars, cookies, cocoa, and other perfect souvenirs. Be sure to visit when you're in the Fisherman's Wharf area.