Fisherman's Wharf: Tours and Guided Visits

If you want to immerse yourself in San Francisco’s hustle and bustle, you should add Fisherman’s Wharf to your itinerary. This area is buzzing with life, filled with the aromas of fresh seafood, the cheers of children on carousels and historic landmarks at every turn.

The best way to experience all of what this energetic district has to offer is by participating in a Fisherman’s Wharf tour in San Francisco.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, one of the most top destinations for having fun while sightseeing in San Francisco.

Where is Fisherman’s Wharf and how do I get there?

Fisherman’s Wharf is located on the northern stretch of San Francisco’s waterfront, between Ghirardelli Square and Pier 35.

In order to reach this lively hub, you can hop on the F-Line streetcar, which runs from the Castro neighborhood to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Alternatively, you can make use of the Powell-Hyde Cable Car or the Powell-Mason Cable Car to make your way to your destination.

What will I see and do in Fisherman’s Wharf?

Pier 39

Pier 39 is one of the biggest tourist attractions in San Francisco and is formed of restaurants, boutiques, and an entertainment complex. Visitors can participate in virtual reality experiences or opt for rides that take place in 7D.

Those who are looking for a more leisurely affair can instead admire the sparkling seas while feasting on the fresh catch of the day at the numerous seafood restaurants along the promenade.

USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial

Visitors to the city can step back in time and imagine life in the 1940s by exploring the USS Pampanito. This vessel journeyed across the seas to complete six patrols during WWII, during which time it sank six Japanese ships and damaged four others. Since 1982, this preserved ship has served as a maritime museum.

What are the best tours to visit Fisherman’s Wharf?

Fisherman’s Wharf scavenger hunt

If you’re looking for a fun way to kill a few hours, why not put your brain to the test by participating in a scavenger hunt in the Fisherman’s Wharf district? Using your smartphone, you’ll let an app guide you around the landmarks and monuments, giving you puzzles, and riddles to solve along the way.

You’ll uncover your next destination by completing these challenges with your teammates and, in doing so, you’ll explore both the historical, and cultural sides of Fisherman’s Wharf.

You’ll visit many attractions, including Lombard Street, known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” as well as Hyde Street Pier where several wartime vessels are moored.

Fisherman’s Wharf walking tour with Golden Gate Bay cruise

This detailed tour of Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco will give you a broad view of the “Golden City” before enabling you to experience its famous bridge up close.

On this Fisherman’s Wharf tour in San Francisco, you’ll get to see the city’s 19th-century cable car system, which was well ahead of its time, in action. You’ll learn about San Francisco’s WWII history and pass by some of its most notable buildings, including the Cannery, once the largest canning station in the U.S., and used by the fruit producer, Del Monte.

Once you’ve explored the main attractions in this lively corner of the city, you’ll hop aboard a boat and set sail on a relaxing San Francisco bay cruise that passes under the globally-recognized Golden Gate Bridge — once dubbed the “bridge that couldn’t be built.”

How much do Fisherman’s Wharf tours cost?

The most budget-friendly Fisherman’s Wharf tours are those that use a smartphone app to guide you on a scavenger hunt through the neighborhood. These types of self-guided excursions typically cost around US$10 each.

Combination Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge sightseeing tours in San Francisco cost US$70 per person.

Where do Fisherman’s Wharf tours start?

Fisherman’s Wharf tours in San Francisco usually begin in the neighborhood itself, around Beach, Hyde or Lombard Street. You’ll be able to view the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation in advance.

When is the best time to visit Fisherman’s Wharf?

The best time to plan a Fisherman’s Wharf tour in San Francisco depends on what you’re seeking. If you’d like to enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking in the sun, you should consider visiting during the summer months. However, those who want to see the sea lions at their most active may wish to visit during the winter instead.

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the main tourist attractions in the city and as such, can become overcrowded with visitors. To avoid the masses, head to the area early in the day when you can enjoy a peaceful visit.

Travel tips

• While Fisherman’s Wharf tours in San Francisco operate at a leisurely pace, you should have a moderate level of fitness in order to participate.
• Most excursions of this nature happen on foot so ensure you wear comfortable shoes.
• San Francisco experiences mild winters that average around 14 degrees Celsius. Consider visiting during these months in order to avoid crowds and queues for attractions.