Pier 39 & Fisherman's Wharf

Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf together form the most visited attraction in San Francisco, drawing over 10 million visitors a year. Yes, it is touristy. No, locals rarely go. But for families with kids, it genuinely delivers -- especially if you know how to navigate it and skip the tourist traps.

The undisputed star of Pier 39 is the sea lion colony on K-Dock at the pier's west end. Since 1990, dozens to hundreds of wild California sea lions have hauled out on floating platforms here, barking, sunbathing, shoving each other into the water, and generally putting on an incredible free show. Kids are mesmerized.

An interpretive center nearby has volunteers from the Marine Mammal Center who answer questions and help kids understand what they are seeing. The colony is largest from September through May; summer months may have fewer animals, but there are almost always some present.

Beyond the sea lions, Pier 39 offers a two-story carousel ($4/ride) with beautiful hand-painted depictions of San Francisco landmarks, a mirror maze, midway games, and the 7D Experience ride. The Aquarium of the Bay ($28 adult, $18 child) has a walk-through tunnel surrounded by local bay species including sharks, rays, and sturgeon. It is smaller than major aquariums but kids under 10 enjoy the touch pools.

Fisherman's Wharf extends along the waterfront beyond Pier 39, encompassing Jefferson Street with its crab stands, souvenir shops, and Boudin Bakery. Boudin has been baking sourdough bread since 1849 and offers a bakery tour where kids can watch bread being shaped into animal forms through a glass window. Their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is the quintessential San Francisco meal and a better dining value than the sit-down seafood restaurants, which tend to be overpriced and mediocre.

For entertainment, street performers set up along the pier daily -- magicians, musicians, comedians, and the famous "Bush Man" who hides behind branches and startles passing tourists (kids find this hilarious). Performances are free, with tips encouraged.

Practical notes: parking is expensive everywhere in this area. The Pier 39 garage offers merchant validation discounts. Better yet, take the F-line historic streetcar from downtown or the cable car from Powell Street (itself a great family experience). Dress warmly -- the waterfront catches a constant cold breeze, even on sunny days. The area is fully stroller accessible.

A focused visit takes 2 hours (sea lions, carousel, walk around). If you add lunch, the aquarium, and shopping, plan for 3-4 hours. Many families combine this with a walk to Ghirardelli Square (15 minutes) for free chocolate samples.