Photo by Kayl Photo on Unsplash
Aquarium of the Bay
A small aquarium on Pier 39 focused on local San Francisco Bay marine life.
The call
Worth it for the right traveler.
Why
- 01
Walk-through tunnels with sharks and rays overhead and touch pools that delight little kids — an easy, dry, weather-proof stop on the waterfront.
Our read - 02
The catch: it's small and pricey for what it is, easily overshadowed by Monterey down the coast, and best as a kid-pleaser rather than a must-see.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Think twice if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, skip Aquarium of the Bay — the spend outweighs the payoff.
You only have one day
Short on time? Aquarium of the Bay can wait.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, it depends on the day.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, it depends on the day.
Plan it well
- Cost
- $ (~$30)
- Timing
- Weekday or rainy day; it's a good indoor backup.
- Booking
- Buy tickets online for a small discount and shorter waits.
- Allow
- 1–1.5 hrs
- Accessibility
- Fully accessible, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
- Getting there
- On Pier 39 at Fisherman's Wharf; the F-line streetcar or Powell-Mason cable car nearby.
Consider instead
Ready to plan it?
Booking may earn us a commission. It never changes the verdict.