Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is part of the northern waterfront. This is a working wharf that also has enough picturesque sights and pungent smells to attract millions of visitors annually. The area is packed with restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops and attractions. On sunny weekends and throughout the summer season it can be extremely busy. But there are several good reasons to spend some time here. First and foremost, the nearby piers are departure points for scenic bay cruises and ferries to Sausalito, Angel and Alcatraz islands, and other destinations.

Sidewalk vendors sell fresh crab, one of the wharf's original attractions. You also have to try clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, which is offered at practically every restaurant. And all kinds of street performers—artists, musicians, mimes—are on hand to entertain the crowds.

Note: Street parking is very hard to come by, especially during the summer high season. There are public garages and parking lots along Beach and North Point streets. The Powell-Hyde cable car line beginning at Market Street lets off passengers in Victorian Park at Beach and Hyde streets, while the Powell-Mason cable car line lets passengers off at Taylor and Bay streets, both within easy walking distance. Muni's F Line streetcar and the #19, #30 and #47 Muni buses also stop near Fisherman's Wharf.