Pier 39 juts out into San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz, Angel Island, Treasure Island, The Golden Gate Bridge and other nautical sights cruise by every day. The ferries at Pier 41 next door, offer daily transport to many of these places. The Sea Lions appeared about 10 years ago, on their own, but no doubt lured by the 'easy pickings' from the tourists. They now bask in the abandoned piers adjacent to Pier 39, and can be seen cavorting happily all around the water. Their loud barking, silliness and resulting crowd is always amusing, and free.
More sea lions appear in winter, but many can be seen year round.
Some of the city s finest restaurants are also located here including Neptune s Palace and Dante s Seafood Grill. There are many small food stands, ice creameries, and other delicacies to enjoy. Pier 39 is easy to find. The new F Line light rail, rumbles all the way up the Embarcadero and stops right in front. The Mason Street Cable Car line also stops nearby, and of course, every cab driver in town knows the way.