San Francisco's

Fisherman's Wharf

Neighborhood Guide

What's it like to live in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco?

Known for its historic waterfront, delicious seafood, and lively atmosphere, Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling neighborhood in San Francisco. The area is a hub of activity, with the famous Pier 39 offering a plethora of shopping and dining options, including the renowned Boudin Bakery and the seafood stalls lining the wharf, where you can savor fresh Dungeness crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. The neighborhood is also home to the iconic sea lions at K-Dock, the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, and the immersive San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. The most common housing options in this lively San Francisco neighborhood are condos and apartments. Living in Fisherman’s Wharf means being surrounded by stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Bay, with the added convenience of the F-Line streetcar for easy access to the rest of the city.

Insights from Fisherman's Wharf locals

Ilana Teles with The Codmother Fish & Chips – “One of Fisherman Wharf’s hidden gems is the early morning stroll along the docks. Before the hustle and bustle of the day begins, the serene views of the bay, with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, offer a moment of tranquility and a glimpse into the soul of San Francisco. It’s during these quiet hours that you can truly appreciate the beauty and history of the Wharf.”

What is the housing market like in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco?

Median Sale Price

$2,600,000

Median Rental Price

N/A

Interested in moving to the area?

What’s the best way to get around Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco?

Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling neighborhood with ample public transportation options, including the iconic San Francisco cable cars, making it easy to navigate around. However, parking can be challenging due to the area’s popularity with tourists, but its close proximity to major attractions, restaurants, and shopping venues makes it highly walkable.

pier 39 and hard rock cafe at night san francsico

Things to do & see

Pier 39: A bustling waterfront marketplace filled with shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performances, the Aquarium of the Bay, and marina home to the famous sea lions.

Ghirardelli Square: A historic public square featuring the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, unique shops, wine tasting venues, and a variety of dining options.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park: This park offers the chance to explore maritime history with a fleet of historic vessels, a museum, and a library/research facility.

Madame Tussauds San Francisco: A world-renowned wax museum featuring lifelike wax figures of celebrities, athletes, and world leaders.

The Cannery at Del Monte Square: Once a fruit canning plant, this historic building now houses a three-level shopping and dining complex with live music and special events.

Where to eat & drink

Fog Harbor Fish House: Fog Harbor Fish House serves up sustainable seafood dishes with panoramic views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, providing a memorable dining experience.

Franciscan Crab Restaurant: Known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, the Franciscan Crab Restaurant serves up a variety of crab dishes, including Dungeness crab, crab cakes, and crab salads.

Wipeout Bar & Grill: A fun and casual spot, Wipeout Bar & Grill offers a surf-themed atmosphere and a menu filled with burgers, tacos, and a variety of beers on tap.

Boudin Bakery Café: Famous for its sourdough bread, Boudin Bakery Café is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch, offering a variety of sandwiches, soups, and pastries.

Winery Collective: A unique tasting room experience, Winery Collective offers the chance to sample a variety of local wines from small producers throughout California.

Living in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco FAQs

Where is Fisherman's Wharf located in San Francisco?

Fisherman’s Wharf is located on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, bordered by the neighborhoods of North Beach, Chinatown, and Russian Hill.

Is Fisherman's Wharf a good neighborhood in San Francisco?

Fisherman’s Wharf is a vibrant neighborhood known for its bustling waterfront, offering a lively atmosphere with a variety of attractions. The area is a hub for entertainment, with a plethora of restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions such as Pier 39 and the famous sea lions, the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

What is Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco known for?

Fisherman’s Wharf is renowned for its bustling waterfront, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic seafood stalls. The neighborhood is characterized by its historic charm, with attractions like the antique cable cars and the vintage ships at Hyde Street Pier. The overall vibe is lively and tourist-friendly, with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

How far is Fisherman's Wharf from downtown San Francisco?

Fisherman’s Wharf is a vibrant neighborhood located on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, just a few miles away from the bustling downtown area.

How should I spend a day in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco?

Start your day at Fisherman’s Wharf by indulging in a hearty breakfast at the iconic Boudin Bakery Cafe, known for its sourdough bread. Spend the rest of your day exploring the sea lions at Pier 39, taking a ferry to the infamous Alcatraz Island, and wrapping up with a delicious seafood dinner at the historic Alioto’s Restaurant. Don’t forget to catch the breathtaking sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge!