In its heyday, the wharf saw Chinese and Italian immigrant fisherman sail their tiny boats into the bay, bring their catch ashore and display it in stands along the wharf. The area has retained an element of its fishing legacy and vibrant atmosphere, and Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively place to eat, shop and people-watch.
Spilling over with seafood restaurants, clam chowder stands, museums, shops and street performers, Fisherman’s Wharf today is a thriving entertainment hub and one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods. Starting at Ghirardelli Square in the west and running all the way to Pier 39 at the east end of the waterfront, the wharf is lively both by day and by night. At Pier 39, look out for the residents on the floating wooden platforms next to the pier – the very vocal and very popular sea lions are a star attraction at the wharf.
Pier 33 is where you can catch the ferries to Alcatraz Island. But if you want to stay on the mainland, head over to Musée Mécanique, a good old-fashioned games arcade and museum, or take a look at Ripley’s “Believe it or Not!” and its strange collection of oddities. The USS Pampanito gives you a feel of what life was like aboard a US submarine during World War II.
Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to eat, with everything from street stalls, selling hot, fresh food to some fine-dining restaurants serving up some of the city’s best seafood. The area’s multicultural history is still evident in the many Italian and Chinese eating establishments, alongside plenty of other international cuisines. Many of the restaurants offer great views of the ocean, the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
You can get to Fisherman’s Wharf on foot, or using public transport. Take the Powell/Mason cable car line and get off two blocks south of the wharf. If you want to drive, there is parking available near the neighbourhood, but it can be expensive.
