Fisherman’s Wharf

Located along the SF Bay, just north of North Beach, Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the top tourist neighborhoods in San Francisco. While you won’t find a lot of locals in the area, it is one of the busiest areas of the city, especially during the summer months. Its waterfront location and large amount of cool attractions makes it a great place to check out if you are visiting San Francisco. 

The streets of Fisherman’s Wharf are lined with shops, restaurants, tourist kiosks, bars and more, so even if you aren’t planning on seeing anything specific, it is a great place to spend the day. However, you may want to plan ahead if you want to check out some of the more popular activities. 

Perhaps the most popular place in the Wharf is Pier 39, a waterfront shopping area, perfect for people of all ages. The area is always busy with visitors shopping at over 90 stores, grabbing food at one of the 14 full-service restaurants or snacking around at some of the unique food kiosks and cafes. The end of the wharf looks over the San Francisco Bay with amazing views of Alcatraz, The Golden Gate Bridge and more. And speaking of Alcatraz, Pier 39 is where you grab the Alcatraz Cruises ferry to tour the famous federal penitentiary. Another fun feature of Pier 39 is the two-story carousel that features hand-painted San Francisco Attractions, 1,800 sparkling lights and 30 animals to ride. If that isn’t enough for you, there is also a very special feature right next to Pier 39, the San Francisco Sea Lions! These massive, barking sea creatures randomly showed up after the 1989 earthquake and took over the docks.

While you could probably spend a full day at Pier 39 alone, there are plenty more things to see and things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are into museums, you can check out the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, The Cartoon Art Museum, Musée Mécanique and more. If you are in the mood for some grub, you will have quite a few options. For a quick, uniquely San Francisco meal, you can’t go wrong with the many seafood stands selling fresh Dungeness Crab & Clam Chowder or stopping by Boudin Bakery to try some of the famous San Francisco sourdough bread. An, of course, if you haven’t been to an In-N-Out Burger, you should definitely stop by the famous California burger joint. If you are in the mood for a sit down meal at a restaurant, the infamous Scoma’s is always a good choice. After your meal, skip the dessert and head over to Ghirardelli Square. The famous chocolatier has a shop where you can purchase a variety of chocolates, or grab a tasty ice cream sundae. 

If you are in the mood for a drink, there are some great bars in the area as well. However, if you want to try something spectacular, you need to check out The Buena Vista’s famous Irish Coffee. In fact, the small bar/restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf is credited with bringing the Irish Coffee to America after one of the owners tried one of the alcoholic coffee drinks while on a layover in Ireland. Just outside of the Buena Vista is one of the more popular spots to hop on a cable car to take a ride on the last manually operated cable car system in the world. 

Needless to say, Fisherman’s Wharf has a huge amount of things to do and things to see. If you are visiting San Francisco, you should definitely add it to your list and enjoy some of the best that San Francisco has to offer. 

Annual Events in Fisherman’s Wharf

While Fisherman’s Wharf isn’t really known for having a ton of events, there are definitely a few annual events that are worth checking out.

Fleet Week San Francisco (October):

This is easily one of the biggest events in the city and Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the best place to experience it. Held every October, San Francisco Fleet Week is a celebration of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. You’ll get to see incredible air shows by the Blue Angels, military ship tours, live music, and family activities all around the waterfront. The skies above the Bay come alive with high-speed stunts and flyovers. The main viewing area is along the waterfront between Fisherman’s Wharf and Marina Green, so grab a spot early and settle in for the show.

Fourth of July:

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the best places to be on Independence Day (aside from the Fourth of July Pub Crawl, of course). Every year, the Wharf lights up with a massive fireworks display over the Bay, along with live music, street performers, and special menus at restaurants along the water. The vibe is festive all day long, with families, locals, and visitors gathering for a day of fun by the water. Fireworks start after sunset and are best viewed from Pier 39, Aquatic Park, or anywhere along Jefferson Street.

Sea Lion Birthday Bash (Late January):

Yes, the sea lions at Pier 39 have their own annual celebration. The sea lions first showed up after the 1989 earthquake and have become a beloved part of the neighborhood ever since. Every January, Pier 39 hosts a “Sea Lion Birthday Bash” to celebrate their arrival with educational exhibits, photo ops, and fun for kids and animal lovers alike. It’s a great way to learn about marine life and see the sea lions up close while joining in on the quirky fun.

Crab Season Kickoff (November):

Crab season in San Francisco is a big deal and Fisherman’s Wharf is at the center of the celebration. Starting in November, local Dungeness crab starts showing up on menus all over the Wharf. Many restaurants offer special menus, and some years feature festive events or chef demonstrations to honor the start of the season. It’s a great time to visit if you love seafood and want to experience a delicious local tradition.

Pier 39 Tree Lighting Celebration (Late November):

Right after Thanksgiving, the holidays officially kick off at Fisherman’s Wharf with the Pier 39 Tree Lighting Celebration. The plaza is decorated with lights, ornaments, and a massive Christmas tree. The event features live music, santa sightings, arts and crafts, and a countdown to the lighting of the tree. It’s festive, family-friendly & one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit in San Francisco.

Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival (Currently on hiatus):

The Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival was a beloved Fisherman’s Wharf tradition for over two decades, but it hasn’t taken place in several years. It featured chocolate tastings, dessert demos, pairings with wine or beer, and live music at Ghirardelli Square. If it returns, it’s definitely worth a visit for chocolate lovers.

Where to Eat in Fisherman’s Wharf

The food scene here is unreal—fresh seafood, cozy cafes, and sweet treats galore. You’re right by the water, so there is a lot of seafood options, but you can also find In-N-Out Burger, Gary Danko and a whole bunch of tasty places to eat. Whether you want a quick bite or a fancy meal, you’ll find it. Below are some great places to check out:

Scoma’s Restaurant

What’s Good: This place is a Wharf classic since 1965, tucked right on the water with its own fishing boat bringing in the catch. It’s all about seafood—think crab legs, shrimp cocktails, and their famous cioppino (a big, hearty seafood stew loaded with fish, clams, and more). The vibe’s a little upscale but still comfy, with huge windows showing off the bay.

Must-Try: The cioppino or the lazy man’s Dungeness crab (all the meat, no cracking!).

Drink Tip: Pair it with a crisp white wine (they’ve got a solid list)

Why Go: It’s old-school SF with top-notch food and killer views.

Scoma’s Restaurant
1965 Al Scoma Way
San Francisco, CA 94133

Fog Harbor Fish House

What’s Good: Right in the middle of Pier 39’s action, this spot’s all about sustainable seafood and bayfront seats. The clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a crowd-pleaser, creamy and packed with flavor. They’ve also got grilled fish, crab cakes, and a killer seafood pasta. It’s family-friendly but nice enough for a date too.

Must-Try: The mixed grill (fish, shrimp, scallops—all fresh) or the chowder.

Drink Tip: Grab a local beer or their house sangria

Why Go: Great food, awesome views, and you’re steps from the sea lions.

Fog Harbor Fish House
Pier 39
San Francisco, CA 94133

Boudin Bakery & Cafe

What’s Good: This is the place for San Francisco sourdough. The bakery’s been around since 1849, and you can smell the bread baking from a block away. Get a clam chowder bread bowl, a turkey sandwich, or just a fresh loaf to tear into. The cafe’s casual—grab a seat or take it to go and eat by the water.

Must-Try: Clam chowder bread bowl

Why Go: It’s iconic, affordable & the sourdough is delicious.

Boudin Bakery & Cafe
160 Jefferson St
San Francisco, CA 94133

The Buena Vista Cafe

What’s Good: This spot’s famous for inventing the Irish coffee in the U.S. back in 1952, and it’s still the coziest place to sip one. The bar’s got a vintage feel—think dark wood and cable cars rumbling by outside. They serve food too, like fish and chips or burgers, but the drinks steal the show. It’s lively but chill, perfect for a warm-up after a foggy day.

Must-Try: The Irish coffee—whiskey, coffee, and cream done right.

Drink Tip: Stick with the Irish coffee, but they’ve got beer and cocktails too.

Why Go: It’s a piece of SF history with a drink that hits the spot.

The Buena Vista Cafe
2765 Hyde St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop

What’s Good: Chocolate lovers, this is your spot. Ghirardelli’s been making chocolate in SF forever, and their ice cream shop is a Wharf must. The hot fudge sundaes are massive (think scoops of vanilla with rich chocolate dripping over it). They’ve got shakes, hot chocolate, and candy to grab too. It’s touristy but so worth it.

Must-Try: The “Earthquake” sundae with eight scoops & toppings galore.

Drink Tip: Hot chocolate with whipped cream

Why Go: Sweet treats in a historic square with a fun vibe.

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop
900 North Point St Ste 52
San Francisco, CA 94109

Franciscan Crab Restaurant

What’s Good: This place is all about crab, served up in a sleek dining room with panoramic bay views. Whole roasted Dungeness crab is the star, messy but delicious. Or go for crab enchiladas if you want something different. The menu’s got oysters and fish too, and the bar’s a chill spot for a drink if you’re not starving.

Must-Try: Whole crab with garlic butter—crack it yourself and dig in.

Drink Tip: Local IPA or a martini from the bar.

Why Go: Crab heaven with some of the best views in the Wharf.

Franciscan Crab Restaurant
Pier 43 1/2
San Francisco, CA 94133

Wipeout Bar & Grill

What’s Good: Want something laid-back? Wipeout’s got a surf-shack vibe with burgers, fish tacos, and nachos piled high. It’s right by the water, so you’re eating with a view of the bay and those noisy sea lions. Perfect for a casual lunch or a beer after wandering around.

Must-Try: Fish tacos or the Wipeout Burger with fries.

Drink Tip: A cold draft beer or a fruity cocktail—margaritas are solid.

Why Go: Easygoing eats with a fun, beachy feel steps from the action.

Wipeout Bar & Grill
Pier 39
San Francisco, CA 94133

Crab House at Pier 39

What’s Good: Crab lovers, this is your jam. It’s a no-fuss spot with killer crab dishes—whole roasted crab with garlic sauce, crab chowder, even crab-stuffed mushrooms. The view’s awesome, overlooking the marina, and the vibe’s casual and friendly. They’ve got other seafood too, but crab’s the king here.

Must-Try: “Killer Crab”, which is a whole roasted Dungeness with secret spices.

Why Go: Straight-up crab goodness with a prime Pier 39 location.

Crab House at Pier 39
2 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Quick Tips for Eating & Drinking at the Wharf

• Timing: It gets busy, especially weekends and summers. Lunch around 11:30AM or dinner before 6PM beats the rush.
• Cash: Most spots take cards, but small stands (like crab shacks) might not
• Dress: Keep it casual. Jeans and a jacket work everywhere (SF weather’s chilly!). If you do get cold, stop in and grab one of the famous San Francisco fleece jackets at any of the big tourist shops in the area. It’s kind of a right of passage for visitors to underestimate the drop in temperature once the fog rolls in and need an emergency jacket to keep warm. Even a lot of locals have ended up with one of these jackets in a drawer somewhere.
• Views: Ask for a window seat at sit-down places like Scoma’s or Franciscan

Fisherman’s Wharf Nightlife

Depending on you definition of nightlife, Fisherman’s Wharf is probably not the place that you would head to for a crazy bar scene or lively nightclubs. It’s not as wild as a lot of the other San Francisco neighborhoods, but it’s got its own chill, waterfront charm that’s hard to beat. At night, the Wharf is a place to enjoy a delicious meal or grab a drink ot one of the cool bars around the area. If you are looking for a little more energy, you can easily head to North Beach or The Marina, which are pretty close.

Fisherman’s Wharf Bars

The Buena Vista Cafe

This spot’s a San Francisco legend, famous for bringing Irish coffee to the U.S. back in 1952. It’s got that old school charm with dark wood, big windows & cable cars clanging by outside. The Irish coffee (whiskey, coffee, and cream) is the star and bartenders line ‘em up like an assembly line, plus it’s cozy as heck on a foggy day. They’ve got a full bar too, plus decent pub grub like fish and chips. It’s touristy, sure, but locals sneak in for the vibe.

The Buena Vista Cafe
2765 Hyde St
San Francisco, CA 94109

SF Brewing Co

Tucked right in the heart of Ghirardelli Square, SF Brewing Co is a craft beer lover’s paradise with a laid-back, brewery-meets-beer-garden vibe. This spot’s huge—12,000 square feet—with a custom brewing setup pumping out small-batch beers you can’t find anywhere else. You can pour your own pint from their self-serve beer wall (charged by the ounce—pretty cool, right?), or grab a flight to sample stuff like their hoppy IPAs or malty amber ales. The bar’s got a woody, relaxed feel inside, but the outdoor patio’s where it’s at with fire pits, picnic tables, and views of tourists wandering by. They sling tasty pub grub too, like burgers and pretzel buns, perfect with a cold one. It’s a bit touristy being next to the chocolate haven, but locals sneak in for the brews and chill atmosphere.

SF Brewing Co
3150 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Red Jack Saloon

Just a quick hop from the Wharf’s main drag, Red Jack Saloon is a no-frills dive bar with a salty, old-school sailor feel. Think dim lights, a jukebox cranking tunes, and a crowd of regulars who’ve been coming forever. The bar’s got the basics covered. Cheap beers, stiff well drinks, and maybe a whiskey shot if you’re feeling it. It’s cash-only, so hit the ATM first, and don’t expect fancy cocktails or a big menu (though you might snag some bar snacks if you’re lucky). The vibe’s gritty and unpretentious, so way less touristy than the Wharf core, more like a hideout for locals who want a quiet pint away from the sea lion chaos.

Red Jack Saloon
131 Bay St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Players Sports Grill & Arcade

Smack in the middle of Pier 39’s action, Players is your go-to if you want a sports bar with a side of fun. It’s got big TVs everywhere showing the sports paired with a solid lineup of beers on tap and standard bar drinks (margaritas, anyone?). The food’s classic pub stuff—burgers, wings, nachos—and it’s loud and lively, especially when a crowd rolls in for kickoff. The real kicker? An arcade upstairs with Skee-Ball, hoops, and old-school games, making it a hit for families or anyone who likes a little play with their pint. It’s tourist central, sure, but the energy’s infectious & the bay views from the patio don’t hurt.

Players Sports Grill & Arcade
2 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Music Venues and Comedy Venues near Fisherman’s Wharf

Live music and laughs aren’t far off from Fisherman’s Wharf. Just a short walk away in North Beach, Cobb’s Comedy Club isn’t too far and brings in big names, while Bimbos offers a little bit of everything. Back at the Wharf, street performers on Pier 39 often add a fun, spontaneous soundtrack to your night.

Pier 23 Cafe Restaurant & Bar

Just outside the Wharf, this waterfront dive has a funky, weathered charm with picnic tables outside and a bar that’s seen some stories. They host live bands most nights—jazz, blues, reggae, etc. on a small stage inside or out on the patio. The sound carries over the water, and the crowd’s a mix of locals dancing and visitors soaking it in. It’s got a killer patio overlooking the bay, serving up beers, Bloody Marys, and stiff cocktails. The seafood’s great too (fish tacos, anyone?), but the bar’s the real draw—casual, loud, and packed with locals & visitors alike.

Pier 23 Cafe Restaurant & Bar
23 The Embarcadero
San Francisco, CA 94111

Cobb’s Comedy Club

Cobb’s Comedy Club is a San Francisco staple for laughs, tucked in the lively North Beach neighborhood just a short stroll from the Wharf. This spot’s been cracking people up since the ‘80s, with a cozy, 400-seat setup that feels intimate but big enough for a buzzing crowd. They pull in top-tier comediansas well as local talent tearing up the mic. The vibe’s classic comedy club with dim lights, a small stage and a bar slinging drinks like beer, wine, and cocktails to keep the good times rolling. It’s a perfect night out if you’re near the Wharf and want some humor with your evening.

Cobb’s Comedy Club
915 Columbus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133

The Saloon

This tiny dive is a blues mecca with live bands jam almost every night, and the place shakes with energy. It’s cramped, sweaty & loud, with a dance floor that’s basically wherever you can squeeze in. Legends like John Lee Hooker have played here, and the gritty charm’s unchanged since the 1800s. Cash only, cheap drinks, pure soul.

The Saloon
1232 Grant Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133

Bimbo’s 365 Club

A short hop from the Wharf, this vintage venue’s a step up in polish. It’s been around since the 1930s, with plush red curtains, art deco vibes, and a big stage for everything from indie rock to jazz to cabaret. The sound’s great, and the calendar’s packed with cool shows.

Bimbo’s 365 Club
1025 Columbus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133

Sweetie’s Art Bar

This funky little spot mixes art, drinks, and live music in a cozy package. It’s got a bohemian feel with local art on the walls, a pool table + a small stage for acoustic sets, jazz, or open mic nights. The bar’s quirky, with craft cocktails and a welcoming crowd of locals and creatives. It’s not a full-on venue, but the music’s a sweet bonus to the artsy vibe.

Sweetie’s Art Bar
475 Francisco St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Attractions in Fisherman’s Wharf

Pier 39

What’s Up: This is the beating heart of Fisherman’s Wharf—a lively pier loaded with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The real stars? The sea lions that flop onto the floating docks and bark up a storm. It’s free to watch them lounge and argue, and it’s hilarious every time. You’ve also got street performers, an arcade, and killer bay views toward Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s touristy, sure, but that’s part of the charm.

Highlights: Sea lion show (they’re wild, so it’s whenever they feel like it!), the carousel, and sunset views from the pier’s end.

Why Go: It’s the Wharf’s main hangout—fun, loud, and full of energy.

Pier 39
The Embarcadero &, Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Alcatraz Island

What’s Up: Okay, it’s not on the Wharf, but it’s a Wharf-launched must-do. Alcatraz is that famous island prison sitting in the bay, and the ferry ride from Pier 33 is your ticket to explore it. The audio tour’s the best part—ex-inmates and guards tell wild stories about escapes and lockups while you wander creepy cells and the yard. The boat ride itself is awesome too, with close-up views of the city and bridge.

Highlights: The cellblock audio tour, the solitary confinement cells, and the ferry’s photo ops.

Why Go: It’s a haunting slice of history you can’t get anywhere else. Book early—it sells out!

Where: Ferries leave from Pier 33

Aquarium of the Bay

What’s Up: This place is a deep dive into the bay’s underwater world, right at Pier 39. You walk through clear tunnels with sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming all around you—it’s like being underwater without getting wet. There’s a touch pool with starfish and sea urchins too, which kids (and adults!) love. It’s not huge, but it’s packed with cool sea critters and info about the local ecosystem.

Highlights: The shark tunnel, jellyfish exhibits, and hands-on tide pool.

Why Go: It’s a chill, fun way to see what’s swimming out there in the bay.

Aquarium of the Bay
PIER 39
The Embarcadero &, Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Hyde Street Pier (San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park)

What’s Up: Step back in time at this pier, where you can climb aboard historic ships from SF’s seafaring days. The Balclutha, a massive 1886 sailing ship, is the star—you can explore its decks and imagine life on the high seas. There’s also the Eureka, an old ferry, and smaller boats to check out. The visitor center’s free and has cool exhibits on the city’s maritime past, like shipwrecks and gold rush stories.

Highlights: Walking the Balclutha’s deck, the steam engine on the Eureka, and bay views from the pier.

Why Go: It’s a hands-on history lesson with awesome old boats.

Hyde Street Pier
2905 Hyde St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Musée Mécanique

What’s Up: This quirky spot is a treasure trove of vintage arcade games and mechanical oddities. Think coin-operated fortune tellers, dancing puppets, and ancient pinball machines—all from the early 1900s to mid-20th century. It’s free to wander in and gawk, but bring quarters to play (most games are 25¢–50¢). It’s loud, weird, and totally charming, tucked in a big shed by the water.

Highlights: “Laffing Sal” (a creepy laughing doll), the toothpick carnival diorama, and old-timey photo booths.

Why Go: It’s a blast from the past that’s cheap and endlessly entertaining.

Musée Mécanique
Pier 45
San Francisco, CA 94133

Ghirardelli Square

What’s Up: This historic brick plaza used to be a chocolate factory, and now it’s a sweet spot to hang out. The Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop is the main draw—think massive sundaes and hot chocolate—but the square itself is chill, with benches, a fountain, and bay views. There are a few shops and eateries too, and it’s a great place to rest your legs after exploring the Wharf.

Highlights: The “Earthquake” sundae, the old factory sign lit up at night, and people-watching by the water.

Why Go: Chocolate plus a laid-back vibe—it’s a Wharf classic.

Ghirardelli Square
900 North Point St
San Francisco, CA 94109

SkyStar Observation Wheel

What’s Up: This giant Ferris wheel popped up at the Wharf a while back and stuck around—it’s 150 feet tall and gives you unreal views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. Each ride’s about 12 minutes, and the enclosed cabins keep you comfy even if it’s windy. It’s a little pricey (around $18 for adults), but the photo ops are worth it, especially at sunset.

Highlights: Seeing the Golden Gate Bridge from above, night rides with city lights, and a smooth, quiet spin.

Why Go: It’s a fun, quick way to see the Wharf from a whole new angle.

SkyStar Observation Wheel
2860 Taylor St
San Francisco, CA 94111

Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Stands

What’s Up: These little outdoor stalls aren’t fancy, but they’re a Wharf icon. Fishermen haul in fresh Dungeness crab daily, and these stands steam it up right there—served hot with butter or cold with cocktail sauce. You’ll see the big pots bubbling and smell the seafood a block away. Grab a crab or shrimp cocktail and eat it on a bench by the water—it’s messy but so good.

Highlights: Fresh-off-the-boat crab, cheap shrimp cocktails, and the salty air vibe.

Why Go: It’s the raw, real taste of the Wharf—no frills, just flavor.

The Cannery

What’s Up: This cool old brick building used to be a fruit-canning factory, and now it’s a mini hub with shops, a courtyard, and a bit of history. It’s quieter than Pier 39, with boutique stores like Lola of North Beach (cute SF gifts) and a relaxed patio where you can sip coffee or a beer. The architecture’s neat—red brick and big windows—and it’s steps from the water.

Highlights: The shady courtyard, peeking at old canning photos inside, and a chill break from the crowds.

Why Go: It’s a low-key spot with character and a taste of the Wharf’s past.

The Cannery
2801 Leavenworth St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Aquatic Park Cove

What’s Up: This little curved beach and park area is a hidden gem at the Wharf’s edge. It’s got grassy steps to sit on, a sandy shore, and calm water where locals swim (brrr—it’s cold!). You’re looking out at the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, with old ships from Hyde Street Pier nearby. It’s perfect for a picnic, a stroll, or just watching boats bob around.

Highlights: The view with a sandwich in hand, watching brave swimmers, and the historic bleachers.

Why Go: It’s a peaceful spot to unwind with postcard-worthy scenery.

Quick Tips for Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf Attractions

• Timing: Mornings are less crowded (for the most part). Hit Pier 39 or Alcatraz early. Afternoons get busy, especially weekends.
• Tickets: Book Alcatraz and the SkyStar ahead online. Most other spots are walk-up.
• Weather: Fog’s common so bring a jacket.
• Walking: Everything’s close. Wear comfy shoes and wander between them.

Shopping in Fisherman’s Wharf

Shopping in Fisherman’s Wharf can be a lot of fun. It’s got that perfect mix of touristy fun and San Francisco charm. You can stroll along the waterfront, the smell of fresh crab in the air, popping into quirky shops with everything from souvenirs to chocolates. It’s not about high-end boutiques here, it’s more like a treasure hunt for cool keepsakes, local goodies, and stuff you won’t find anywhere else. It kind of feels like shopping in Chinatown, where you can find some unique and interesting things that you just don’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re grabbing a gift for someone back home or treating yourself, the Wharf’s got a laid-back, lively vibe that makes shopping feel like part of the adventure.

Pier 39 Shops

This is the shopping hub of the Wharf—two levels of over 50 stores packed with fun stuff, all surrounded by sea lions and bay views. You’ll find everything from SF-branded tees at Only In San Francisco to quirky socks at The San Francisco Sock Market. There’s Lefty’s for left-handed gear (so random, so cool), plus jewelry, toys, and candy shops like Candy Baron. It’s tourist central, but that’s the point—grab a hoodie, a magnet, or some fudge while you’re dodging street performers and snapping pics.

Pier 39 Shops
Beach St & The Embarcadero
San Francisco, CA 94133

Ghirardelli Square Shops

This old chocolate factory turned shopping plaza is a sweet deal, literally. The Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop is the star, where you can load up on chocolate bars (peppermint bark, anyone?) or gift boxes after scarfing a sundae. Beyond that, there’s Lola of North Beach with cute SF-themed gifts and ElizabethW for fancy soaps and scents. It’s smaller than Pier 39 but classier, with brick charm and a chill courtyard to rest your feet.

Ghirardelli Square Shops
900 North Point St
San Francisco, CA 94109

The Cannery at Del Monte Square

Housed in a cool old brick building that used to can peaches, The Cannery’s a quieter shopping spot with a local twist. You’ll find boutique shops like The Shell Cellar (shell art and ocean trinkets) and Jackson & Polk for unique gifts and apparel. It’s got a shady courtyard to relax in, and the vibe’s less hectic than Pier 39—more like a hidden gem for wandering and browsing.

The Cannery at Del Monte Square
2801 Leavenworth St
San Francisco, CA 94133

The Shell Cellar

This little shop is a Wharf classic, all about ocean-inspired goodies. Think seashell jewelry, wind chimes, and funky shell art—stuff that screams “I went to the coast!” It’s small, family-run, and packed with handmade treasures you won’t see in chain stores. Prices are fair, and it’s a great spot to grab a nautical gift or a little something for yourself.

The Shell Cellar
Pier 39
Ste. 232
San Francisco, CA 94133

Only In San Francisco

This is your go-to for all things SF-branded. Hoodies, tees, mugs, and keychains with the Golden Gate Bridge or cable cars plastered on them—it’s got the full tourist checklist. The staff’s friendly, and the selection’s huge, so you’re bound to find something fun to take home. It’s right in the Pier 39 mix, so you can pop in while munching on a snack or watching the sea lions.

Only In San Francisco
Pier 39
San Francisco, CA 94133

Anchorage Square

This shopping nook’s a bit off the main drag but worth a peek. It’s got a mix of stores like NFL/College Shop for Bay Area sports gear (think 49ers hats and Giants jerseys) and smaller gift shops with trinkets and apparel. It’s less crowded than Pier 39, with a courtyard feel that’s nice for a breather. You’ll find some random gems here if you poke around.

Anchorage Square
500 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94133

Art & Culture in Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

This is a two-for-one history jackpot! The Hyde Street Pier lets you step onto real old ships—like the Balclutha, a tall sailing ship from 1886 that’s sailed around the world, and the Eureka, a chunky steam ferry packed with vintage cars. It’s like walking into a seafaring time machine, with the bay breeze as your soundtrack. Then, across the street, the Maritime Museum’s Art Deco building (think 1930s ocean liner vibes) is free to enter and full of nautical goodies—ship models, old photos, and stunning murals by Hilaire Hiler that cover the walls with sea life and California history. It’s a chill way to soak up the Wharf’s fishing and sailing roots.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
900 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Musée Mécanique

This place is a wild trip back in time—a huge collection of over 300 vintage arcade games and mechanical toys from the 1900s. You’ve got coin-operated pianos, fortune tellers, and creepy-cool stuff like “Laffing Sal,” a laughing puppet that’ll haunt your dreams. It’s free to wander in, but bring some quarters (25¢–50¢) to play the games—they still work! It’s quirky, nostalgic, and a slice of old-school entertainment culture right by the water.

Musée Mécanique
Pier 45
San Francisco, CA 94133

Cartoon Art Museum

Just steps from the Wharf’s core, this small museum is a love letter to cartoons and comics. It’s got everything from classic newspaper strips to modern graphic novels—think original sketches by legends like Charles Schulz and rotating exhibits of new artists. The space is cozy, not overwhelming, and perfect for a quick art fix. It’s a cool way to see how cartooning has shaped pop culture, all with a San Francisco twist.

Cartoon Art Museum
781 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Umbrella Alley

This outdoor art spot is a burst of color and local flair. It’s a little alley decked out with vibrant murals by SF artists—like fnnch’s “Fisherman’s Wharf Honey Bear” or Kate Tova’s “Hearts”—plus dangling umbrellas that make it super Instagram-friendly. It’s free to stroll through, and the art changes over time, keeping it fresh. It’s less a gallery, more a living canvas that celebrates the city’s creative spirit.

Umbrella Alley
757 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye

This free museum is a hidden gem run by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It’s all about the science and history of eyes—think old-school eyeglasses, medical tools from way back, and exhibits on how we’ve learned to fix vision over centuries. It’s small but packed with cool displays, blending art (beautiful old instruments) with cultural history (how people saw the world—literally!). It’s a bit offbeat but totally fascinating.

Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye
645 Beach St
San Francisco, CA 94109

Street Performers on Jefferson Street

These folks are the heartbeat of the Wharf’s live culture scene—musicians strumming, acrobats flipping, magicians wowing crowds, all free to watch (though tips are nice!). They line Jefferson Street, turning it into an open-air stage where you can catch spray-paint artists or a guy juggling fire, depending on the day. It’s raw, spontaneous, and pure San Francisco energy.