You can't leave San Francisco without seeing the sea lions at Pier 39. They go up and down the floating platforms, swim or bask lazily in the sun regardless of the numerous tourists. The area is lively and full of shops. Pay attention to the prices, not exactly affordable.

Visit the colony of California sea lions that lounge on the docks. Prime viewing season is from late July to mid-May when you can expect to see hundreds of these playful marine mammals. A fun and lively spot for all ages, Pier 39 features a festive atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and street performers lining the wooden walkway. Enjoy the views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge (visible on clear days), and the bustling harbor.

We were a couple at Pier 39 on a beautiful, sunny day in March. It wasn't particularly busy and you could see a lot of sea lions. There were probably 30-40 animals there, warming themselves in the spring sun. It was really worth seeing and a beautiful experience. There is a strong wind there, so you should think about warm clothing even when it's sunny and 15 degrees.

... is more like a long, little Disneyland. There is souvenir shop after souvenir shop and food stall after food stall. Packed to capacity, even on rainy days and at a cool 12 degrees. There are also quite nice shops here such as a shop for left-handers, for magic tricks, for CBD, for posters and billboards, for coffee and more coffee (with biscuits), for minerals, for honey, for socks, for X and for Y. Directly adjacent: the Aquarium by the Bay Sea lions apparently find the hustle and bustle quite nice and have settled here. However, in order to take decent photos of the sea lions, you need a good telephoto lens.

We love visiting Fisherman’s Wharf since it is one of our favorite places to visit in San Francisco. We love walking around the Wharf and having lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants and ice cream in the ice cream shop and watching the sea lions. We have lived in San Francisco Bay Area for over 36 years and can never get tired of visiting Fisherman’s Wharf. It is a very special place and we love to take our guests visiting from overseas there to enjoy this wonderful location and create memories of San Francisco!!

You better get your wallet and card ready here! Lots of capitalism is going to entice you on this place! Only thing free here is the viewing of the sea lions! You also get a closer look of alcatraz here. See images and videoa for further information

Busy, crowded and still worth it. Went 3 times, watched the sea lion antics every time. It is touristy, but the views and food worth it. Or sit and people watch. Lots of families and everyone we met was so polite and friendly.

Very crowded place. Parking is expensive and difficult. Plenty of places to eat and shop. The sea lions are the best part of the pier but you’ll need to be patient and pushy to get close enough to see them and get pictures. Definitely worth a trip one time.

Crowded, expensive and commercial. Kind of what I picture Disneyland would be like. The sea lions hanging out were the highlight but even that was a couple of minutes. I was out for a long walk so it met my expectations as somewhere to let my eyes wander. But not much more.

The atmosphere is really cozy with lots to see and experience. And then you just have to experience the sea lions - it's crazy how many there are! Pier 39 in San Francisco is a must-see when visiting the city. Although there are a bit too many souvenir shops, which can make the selection a bit monotonous, there are plenty of opportunities to get something to eat. But remember your wallet, it's a bit more expensive than most places.