Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay at PIER 39 in San Francisco features a variety of marine and land creatures, interactive tours, engaging displays, and interactive activities.

Events and activities in Aquarium of the Bay

Getting there

Aquarium of the Bay

Embarcadero & Beach St Pier 39, San Francisco, 94105

About Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay showcases the extraordinary marine life of the San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters. Located at PIER 39 on the famous Fisherman's Wharf, this unique aquarium lets visitors walk through 300 feet of crystal-clear tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and thousands of local fish.

  • What are the Aquarium of the Bay's hours?
    Aquarium of the Bay is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and holidays. The aquarium may close earlier in winter months. Arriving early helps avoid the heaviest PIER 39 tourist crowds.
  • How do I get to the Aquarium of the Bay?
    The aquarium is located at PIER 39, Fisherman's Wharf. Take the F-Market streetcar or Powell-Hyde/Powell-Mason cable car lines. MUNI buses also serve the area. Parking is available at PIER 39's garage, though it fills quickly on weekends.
  • What will I see at Aquarium of the Bay?
    Walk through tunnels surrounded by sevengill sharks, bat rays, and sturgeon. Touch pools let you interact with sea stars and bat rays. The aquarium focuses on local species from the Bay, coast, and rivers of Northern California.
  • Who is Aquarium of the Bay ideal for?
    Aquarium of the Bay creates memorable experiences for all visitors. Families love the tunnel walk-through and hands-on touch pools, marine life enthusiasts appreciate the focus on local ecosystems, San Francisco tourists enjoy a unique Fisherman's Wharf attraction, photographers capture dramatic underwater angles, and anyone curious about Bay Area wildlife discovers species swimming right in these waters.
  • What should I know before visiting?
    Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the aquarium. Combine your visit with PIER 39's sea lions, shops, and restaurants. Bring layers—San Francisco weather can be cool and foggy even in summer. Flash photography is not permitted.

Events and activities near Aquarium of the Bay

Venues near Aquarium of the Bay