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Aquarium of the Bay Tickets

4.3(356)

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Underwater tunnel with fish at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Aquarium of the Bay interior with large cylindrical tanks displaying marine life.

Underwater tunnel with fish and sharks at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Aquarium of the Bay entrance with flags and shark mural, San Francisco.

Jellyfish swimming in Aquarium of the Bay exhibit.

Aquarium of the Bay interior with fish tanks and informational displays.

Jellyfish swimming at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Aquarium of the Bay entrance at Pier 39, San Francisco, with visitors walking nearby.

Tickets

NEW

Aquarium of the Bay Tickets

from

$28

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration

Explore San Francisco’s diverse marine life with hands-on exhibits and underwater tunnels, right on the iconic Pier 39!

Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and curious minds, the Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at 20,000+ local marine species.
Walk through two mesmerizing glass tunnels for a 360-degree view of sharks, rays, and schools of fish swimming overhead and around you.
Engage with hands-on touch pools, where you can feel bat rays, sea stars, and other marine creatures in a safe, interactive environment.
Learn about marine conservation efforts, including initiatives to protect local habitats and species, visiting both fun and meaningful.

Explore San Francisco’s diverse marine life with hands-on exhibits and underwater tunnels, right on the iconic Pier 39!

Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and curious minds, the Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at 20,000+ local marine species.
Walk through two mesmerizing glass tunnels for a 360-degree view of sharks, rays, and schools of fish swimming overhead and around you.
Engage with hands-on touch pools, where you can feel bat rays, sea stars, and other marine creatures in a safe, interactive environment.
Learn about marine conservation efforts, including initiatives to protect local habitats and species, visiting both fun and meaningful.

Inclusions

Entry to Aquarium of the Bay

Tip: Located at Pier 39, you can easily explore nearby attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, or take a ferry to Alcatraz.
Most areas of the aquarium are wheelchair accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Person walking through Muir Woods with towering redwoods.

Ferry view of Alcatraz Island with historic buildings in San Francisco Bay.

Wooden pier leading to hillside homes in Sausalito near San Francisco, CA.

Colorful houses and sailboats along the waterfront in Sausalito, near San Francisco.

Guests exploring the Aquarium of the Bay tunnel in San Francisco, viewing marine life.

Pathway through redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument, near San Francisco, California.

Stream flowing through redwood forest in Muir Woods National Monument, California.

Alcatraz Prison cell block interior during San Francisco Bay cruise tour.

Alcatraz Island prison room with barred windows and storage shelves, San Francisco, California.

Sausalito Bay Area with hillside homes and partial view of Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California.

Day Trips

4.3(228)

From San Francisco: Alcatraz, Muir Woods, & Sausalito Day Trip

from

$159

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Transfers available

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION12 hours

Timeline

Map

Start point

Hilton San Francisco Union Square

Get direction

Passes By

Golden Gate Bridge

1. Muir Woods National Monument

Tickets included

2. Sausalito

1 activity

Things to do

Ferry back to San Francisco

Included in price

3. Aquarium of the Bay

Tickets included

Photo stop & Sightseeing

4. Alcatraz Island

Tickets included

1 activity

Things to do

Ferry back to San Francisco

Included in price

End point

San Francisco

TOTAL DURATION24 hours

Timeline

Map

Start point

San Francisco

1. Alcatraz Island

Tickets included

2 attractions

1 activity

Things to do

Golden Gate Bridge

Angel Island

Ferry back to San Francisco

Included in price

2. Aquarium of the Bay

Tickets included

Photo stop & Sightseeing

3. Hilton San Francisco Union Square

4. Muir Woods National Monument

Tickets included

5. Sausalito

1 activity

Things to do

Ferry back to San Francisco

Included in price

Witness majestic redwoods, beautiful waterfronts, scenic ferry views, and Alcatraz's history with round-trip transportation from San Francisco.

Day out to Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Alcatraz Island from San Francisco on a half-day guided tour, with comfortable round-trip transportation from central location.
You'll get an expert, English-speaking local guide, as you explore the majestic redwoods at Muir Woods, and the charming seaside community at Sausalito. For the Alcatraz Island visit, you'll get a multilingual audio guide tour.
Muir Woods: Towering redwoods, tranquil trails, and filtered sunlight create a peaceful retreat perfect for nature lovers.
Sausalito: A charming waterfront town with art galleries, boutique shops, and stunning bay views ideal for strolling or dining outdoors.
Alcatraz Island: Infamous former prison offering gripping history, bone-chilling stories, and sweeping Golden Gate views.
Upgrades: Combine your day trip with a visit to the nearby Aquarium of the Bay, featuring over 20,000 marine animals including sharks and sting rays.

Witness majestic redwoods, beautiful waterfronts, scenic ferry views, and Alcatraz's history with round-trip transportation from San Francisco.

Day out to Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Alcatraz Island from San Francisco on a half-day guided tour, with comfortable round-trip transportation from central location.
You'll get an expert, English-speaking local guide, as you explore the majestic redwoods at Muir Woods, and the charming seaside community at Sausalito. For the Alcatraz Island visit, you'll get a multilingual audio guide tour.
Muir Woods: Towering redwoods, tranquil trails, and filtered sunlight create a peaceful retreat perfect for nature lovers.
Sausalito: A charming waterfront town with art galleries, boutique shops, and stunning bay views ideal for strolling or dining outdoors.
Alcatraz Island: Infamous former prison offering gripping history, bone-chilling stories, and sweeping Golden Gate views.
Upgrades: Combine your day trip with a visit to the nearby Aquarium of the Bay, featuring over 20,000 marine animals including sharks and sting rays.

Inclusions

Daytime or nighttime tour of Alcatraz Island (as per option selected)
Local tour guide
Guided tour in a small group
Round-trip transportation in a luxury air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter van
1 hour & 15 minutes free time at Muir Woods
1 hour free time in Sausalito
Picture stop at Golden Gate Bridge viewpoint
Round-trip ferry ride to Alcatraz Island
Admission to Alcatraz ($45)
Downloadable audio guide in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Korean
Admission to Aquarium of the Bay (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Entrance fee to Muir Woods National Monument
Food & beverages
Gratuities/tips
Optional ferry back ticket from Sausalito to San Francisco

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID.
Dress in layers and bring a jacket, as San Francisco weather can be unpredictable and cool, especially near the bay.
Carry some cash or a credit card for the Muir Woods entrance fee (USD 15 for adults, free for children) and optional ferry ticket from Sausalito to San Francisco.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the tour or inside Alcatraz Island for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Intoxicants and illegal substances are strictly prohibited on the tour and at all sites.
Smoking is not permitted on the tour bus, ferry, or at any of the tour stops.
Food and beverages are not allowed on Alcatraz Island, except on the dock.

Accessibility

This experience is not fully wheelchair accessible. Some areas, including parts of Muir Woods and Alcatraz Island, may have uneven terrain and limited accessibility for guests with mobility impairments.

Additional information

The tour operates year round and is suitable for all ages.
The entrance fee to Muir Woods National Monument is not included in your ticket; separate charges apply.
Gratuity for your guide is not included (20% recommended).
Food and beverages are not provided; plan accordingly.
Optional ferry tickets from Sausalito to San Francisco can be purchased on the day of the tour.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Young woman photographing Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View, Yosemite National Park, USA.

Family with infant enjoying Yosemite National Park, California, with El Capitan in the background.

Alcatraz Island Recreation Yard with prison building, San Francisco, USA.

Aquarium of the Bay entrance with sea life murals and sculptures, San Francisco, California.

Yosemite Falls viewed from Yosemite Valley Meadows, California.

Person photographing Yosemite Valley's cliffs and forest.

El Capitan rock formation in Yosemite National Park, California, with trees and clear sky.

Alcatraz Island prison cell block interior, California.

Day Trips

NEW

From San Francisco: Alcatraz, Aquarium of the Bay & Yosemite 2-Day Trip

from

$289

14 hr

Audio guide

Transfers available

Pickup available

Meals included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION48 hours

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan

Timeline

Map

Start point

Pier 33

1. Alcatraz Island

Tickets included

1 attraction

1 activity

Things to do

Golden Gate Bridge

Ferry ride back to Pier 33

Included in price

2. Aquarium of the Bay

Tickets included

Passes By

Pre-arranged hotel pick-ups

3. Yosemite National Park

Tickets included

2 attractions

1 activity

Highlights

Tunnel View

Ansel Adams Gallery

Things to do

Free time to explore

Included in price

End point

At your hotel

Explore San Francisco and beyond with one ticket—marine life, dramatic granite cliffs, and gripping prison tales.

Everything you get at Alcatraz Island: Take a round-trip ferry to Alcatraz and explore the island at your own pace. Use the included multilingual audio tour to hear stories from former inmates and guards as you walk through the cell blocks and prison grounds.
Everything you get at Aquarium of the Bay: Visit the Aquarium’s multiple galleries and walk through glass tunnels filled with sharks, rays, and native fish.
Everything you get at Yosemite National Park: Ride in a guided coach from San Francisco with hotel pickup and drop-off included. See major sights like Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls on a narrated tour, then spend three hours in the valley to hike, bike, or explore on your own.
Why choose this: With tickets, transport, and guiding included, you’ll avoid the hassle of organizing logistics across multiple locations. It’s perfect for travellers short on time who want to cover key California highlights with comfort and ease.
Upgrades: Choose between a day tour or a night tour of Alcatraz Island. The night tour offers exclusive access to restricted areas and includes special ranger-led programs, paired with your visits to the Aquarium of the Bay and Yosemite National Park.

Explore San Francisco and beyond with one ticket—marine life, dramatic granite cliffs, and gripping prison tales.

Everything you get at Alcatraz Island: Take a round-trip ferry to Alcatraz and explore the island at your own pace. Use the included multilingual audio tour to hear stories from former inmates and guards as you walk through the cell blocks and prison grounds.
Everything you get at Aquarium of the Bay: Visit the Aquarium’s multiple galleries and walk through glass tunnels filled with sharks, rays, and native fish.
Everything you get at Yosemite National Park: Ride in a guided coach from San Francisco with hotel pickup and drop-off included. See major sights like Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls on a narrated tour, then spend three hours in the valley to hike, bike, or explore on your own.
Why choose this: With tickets, transport, and guiding included, you’ll avoid the hassle of organizing logistics across multiple locations. It’s perfect for travellers short on time who want to cover key California highlights with comfort and ease.
Upgrades: Choose between a day tour or a night tour of Alcatraz Island. The night tour offers exclusive access to restricted areas and includes special ranger-led programs, paired with your visits to the Aquarium of the Bay and Yosemite National Park.

Inclusions

Round-trip ferry rides to Alcatraz Island
Admission to Alcatraz ($45)
Multilingual audio guide in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Korean
Entry to the Aquarium of the Bay
Expert English-speaking guide
Complimentary pickup/drop-off from select San Francisco hotels
In-coach narrative of Yosemite
Entry to Yosemite National Park
3 hours of free time in Yosemite
Round-trip transfers to Yosemite in a mini-coach

Exclusions

Live guide at Alcatraz Island and the Aquarium of the Bay
Food and beverages (available for purchase)
Gratuities

Day 1 (Alcatraz + Aquarium of the Bay) is a self-guided tour that does not include transportation. The only transfers included in this tour are the ferries to and from Alcatraz Island.
Day 2 (Yosemite National Park) is a guided tour, and you'll enjoy comfortable transportation aboard a mini-coach.

Alcatraz Island:

The ferry and the island are wheelchair accessible.
You can explore the island for as long as you like.
Dress in layers—the weather can be unpredictable.
Wear comfortable shoes—there is an uphill climb that is equivalent to a 13-story building.

Aquarium of the Bay:

Luggage and large backpacks are not allowed.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed.
It is accessible; wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yosemite National Park:

It is largely accessible, with marked trails for wheelchairs.
Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are available from multiple locations in the city on day 2 of the tour.
Cellular service is limited.
Do not approach or feed wildlife.
Do not carry weapons or sharp objects on you.
Practice Leave No Trace principles.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Visitors walking through vineyard in Napa-Sonoma Wine Country.

Visitors enjoying wine in Napa-Sonoma Wine Country garden.

Alcatraz Island with historic prison buildings in San Francisco Bay, California.

Child observing fish at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Pouring wine into glasses with Napa Valley landscape in the background.

Couple hiking in Muir Woods, part of Alcatraz Tour with Sausalito.

Woman observing fish at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Multi-Day Tours

NEW

From San Francisco: Alcatraz, Aquarium of the Bay, & Napa/Sonoma Wine Country 2-Day Trip

from

$275

48 hr

Audio guide

Transfers available

Pickup available

Meals included

Itinerary

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus

Timeline

Map

Start point

Pier 33

1. Alcatraz Island

Tickets included

1 attraction

1 activity

Things to do

Golden Gate Bridge

Ferry ride back to Pier 33

Included in price

2. Aquarium of the Bay

Tickets included

Passes By

Pre-arranged hotel pick-ups

Mt Tamalpais

3. Sonoma County

Wine tasting

4. Napa Valley

End point

At your hotel

A curated 2-day journey through San Francisco’s top sights and wine country—covered end to end with one easy ticket.

Everything you get at Alcatraz Island: Take a round-trip ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz. Explore the infamous prison island at your own pace with a self-guided Cellhouse audio tour featuring real inmate and guard stories.
Everything you get at Aquarium of the Bay: Visit the aquarium at the bustling Pier 39 with general admission included. Walk through glass tunnels surrounded by native marine life like sharks and stingrays.
Everything you get at the Napa/Sonoma Valleys: Begin with hotel pickup from San Francisco and drive through scenic countryside with an expert guide. Visit three boutique wineries across Sonoma and Napa for curated tastings. Enjoy a lunch break in historic Sonoma Town Square and soak in panoramic vineyard views throughout the day.
Why choose this: This 2-day experience gives you the freedom to choose, the ease of guided travel, and just the right amount of downtime—all without worrying about logistics or nitty-gritty planning.
Upgrades: Choose how you want to experience Alcatraz: go during the day for open-bay views and a flexible visit, or opt for the exclusive night tour for a more atmospheric, less crowded experience.

A curated 2-day journey through San Francisco’s top sights and wine country—covered end to end with one easy ticket.

Everything you get at Alcatraz Island: Take a round-trip ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz. Explore the infamous prison island at your own pace with a self-guided Cellhouse audio tour featuring real inmate and guard stories.
Everything you get at Aquarium of the Bay: Visit the aquarium at the bustling Pier 39 with general admission included. Walk through glass tunnels surrounded by native marine life like sharks and stingrays.
Everything you get at the Napa/Sonoma Valleys: Begin with hotel pickup from San Francisco and drive through scenic countryside with an expert guide. Visit three boutique wineries across Sonoma and Napa for curated tastings. Enjoy a lunch break in historic Sonoma Town Square and soak in panoramic vineyard views throughout the day.
Why choose this: This 2-day experience gives you the freedom to choose, the ease of guided travel, and just the right amount of downtime—all without worrying about logistics or nitty-gritty planning.
Upgrades: Choose how you want to experience Alcatraz: go during the day for open-bay views and a flexible visit, or opt for the exclusive night tour for a more atmospheric, less crowded experience.

Inclusions

Round-trip ferry to Alcatraz Island
Admission to Alcatraz ($45)
Multilingual audio guide in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Korean
Aquarium of the Bay entry ticket
Round-trip transfers to Napa/Sonoma wine country
Professional guide
3 flights of wine tasting in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys
Free time to explore Sonoma Plaza

Exclusions

Food and beverages (available for purchase)
Gratuities
Additional tastings

Day 1 (Alcatraz + Aquarium of the Bay) is a self-guided tour that does not include transportation. The only transfers included in this tour are the ferries to and from Alcatraz Island.
Day 2 (Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Country) is a guided tour, and you'll enjoy comfortable transportation aboard a mini-coach.

Alcatraz Island:

The ferry and the island are wheelchair accessible.
You can explore the island for as long as you like.
Dress in layers—the weather can be unpredictable.
Wear comfortable shoes—there is an uphill climb that is equivalent to a 13-story building.

Aquarium of the Bay:

Luggage and large backpacks are not allowed.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed.
It is accessible; wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Napa/Sonoma Valley:

Carry a valid ID proof.
Dress in layers.
Avoid wearing cologne/perfume to the winery as it can mask the aroma of the wine.
Avoid wearing light colored clothes in case of spillage.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Alcatraz Island with lighthouse and Big Bus tour at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.

Alcatraz prison cell interior, San Francisco.

San Francisco hop-on hop-off tour bus driving through city streets.

San Francisco City Hall with flags and trees in Civic Center, California.

Open-top tour bus in San Francisco with city skyline and bay in the background.

Sea lions resting on docks at Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California.

Tourists on San Francisco Big Bus tour with Alcatraz view.

Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco with people by the lagoon.

Hop-on Hop-off Tours San Francisco

4.2(128)

Combo: Alcatraz Tour + San Francisco 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

from

$120

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Routes

TOTAL DURATION2 hours 20 minutes

FREQUENCYEvery 15 minutes

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

FIRST DEPARTUREBig Bus Tours Visitors' Center at 10:00 AM

LAST DEPARTUREBig Bus Tours Visitors' Center at 6:00 PM

Timeline

Map

1. Big Bus Tours Visitors' Center

Get direction

2 attractions

Big Bus Tours Visitors' Center

Powell Street Cable Car Turnaround

16 minutes walk

2. Columbus/Ghirardelli Square

Get direction

2 attractions

Columbus Avenue

Ghirardelli Square

3 minutes walk

3. North Beach / Chinatown

Get direction

2 attractions

North Beach / Chinatown

1 minute walk

City Lights Bookstore

4. Embarcadero Center

Get direction

2 attractions

Embarcadero Center

Rincon Park

7 minutes walk

5. Ferry Building

Get direction

2 attractions

Ferry Building

3 minutes walk

Alcatraz Ferry Landing

15 minutes walk

6. Union Square South

Get direction

2 attractions

Union Square South

2 minutes walk

Maiden Lane

2 minutes walk

7. Hilton Hotel

Get direction

2 attractions

Hilton Hotel

10 minutes walk

Glide Memorial Church

1 minute walk

8. Civic Center

Get direction

2 attractions

Civic Center

1 minute walk

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium

2 minutes walk

9. Alamo Square

Get direction

2 attractions

Alamo Square

1 minute walk

Painted Ladies

2 minutes walk

10. Haight Ashbury

Get direction

2 attractions

Haight Ashbury

2 minutes walk

Amoeba Music

11. Golden Gate Park

Get direction

2 attractions

Golden Gate Park

3 minutes walk

Conservatory of Flowers

10 minutes walk

12. Golden Gate Park 2

Get direction

13. North Vista Point / Golden Gate Bridge

Get direction

2 attractions

Golden Gate Bridge

4 minutes walk

Battery Spencer

4 minutes walk

14. Palace of Fine Arts

Get direction

2 attractions

Palace of Fine Arts

2 minutes walk

Fort Mason Center

8 minutes walk

15. Marina / Cow Hollow

Get direction

2 attractions

Marina / Cow Hollow

3 minutes walk

Lyon Street Steps

6 minutes walk

16. Lombard Street

Get direction

2 attractions

Lombard Street

3 minutes walk

Russian Hill

4 minutes walk

17. Pier 35 / Cruise Terminal

Get direction

2 attractions

Pier 35

Pier 7

7 minutes walk

18. Pier 39

Get direction

2 attractions

Pier 39

Musical Stairs

2 minutes walk

Explore top sights in San Francisco from two unique perspectives, from land and sea.

Everything you get: Ride through San Francisco on a 48-hour hop-on, hop-off open-top bus tour with engaging audio commentary. Pass iconic landmarks, then take a scenic ferry ride to Alcatraz Island. Enjoy entry to the Aquarium By The Bay, a digital walking tour of Chinatown, set off on a sunset tour, and avail a bike rental.
Why choose this: Enjoy the flexibility to hop on and off the bus at your convenience and gain access to the infamous Alcatraz Island—all in a single, convenient pass you won’t want to miss.

Explore top sights in San Francisco from two unique perspectives, from land and sea.

Everything you get: Ride through San Francisco on a 48-hour hop-on, hop-off open-top bus tour with engaging audio commentary. Pass iconic landmarks, then take a scenic ferry ride to Alcatraz Island. Enjoy entry to the Aquarium By The Bay, a digital walking tour of Chinatown, set off on a sunset tour, and avail a bike rental.
Why choose this: Enjoy the flexibility to hop on and off the bus at your convenience and gain access to the infamous Alcatraz Island—all in a single, convenient pass you won’t want to miss.

Inclusions

San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Tour:

48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
Access to Red Route
1-hour Chinatown digital walking tour
Entry to Aquarium By The Bay
60-min sunset tour
Bike rental offer: book 1 hour, get 1 free
Audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese & Korean (on the bus)
Audio guide English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese (on the walking tour)
Complimentary headphones
Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Alcatraz Island:

Round-trip ferry ride to Alcatraz Island
Admission to Alcatraz ($45)
Multilingual audio guide

Exclusions

Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Food and beverages
Tips

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.
You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Red Route (City Highlights Tour)

Discover San Francisco's major landmarks while cruising down the red route of this flexible hop-on hop-off tour.
Popular stops: Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, Pier 39

Alcatraz Ferry

Board from: Pier 33
Redeem tickets at: 99 Jefferson St Information Center the day before or up until 10:00am the day of your Alcatraz visit

Your time slot will be allocated after ticket redemption.

Sunset Tour

Departure: 6:30pm from stop #1 (Big Bus Tours Visitors' Center)
Frequency: Once every evening
Duration: 60 mins

Digital Walking Tour

Departure: Scan the QR Code at Stop 1 (Big Bus Tours Visitors' Center) and head to Stop 3 (North Beach / Chinatown) for departure
Duration: 1 hour
Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese

Bike Rental

Purchase 1-hour, get 1-hour free
Avail offer at: Blazing Saddles at 2715 Hyde Street or Pier 41

What’s not allowed

San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Tour:

Keep in mind luggage, food & beverages are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
Due to operator restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.

Alcatraz Island:

Keep in mind large bags, luggage, oversized backpacks, food and beverages (except bottled water), weapons, skateboards, “wheelie” shoes are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
Feeding wildlife on the island is prohibited.

Accessibility

San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Tour:

Not all buses are wheelchair accessible. If you require it, contact the company at least 48 hours in advance of your tour.
Your guide dogs are welcome on board.

Alcatraz Island:

The ferry and the island are wheelchair-accessible.

Additional information

Alcatraz Island:

Heads up! The time slot selected is for the Alcatraz ferry and not the hop-on hop-off tour
You can stay on the island for as long as you like.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay: San Francisco’s best marine experience

Get acquainted with the underwater residents of San Francisco Bay at PIER 39, right along the bustling San Francisco waterfront. At the Aquarium of the Bay, you will come across over 24,000 marine animals from more than 200 species, all native to the region! Stay on this page to see the jellyfish, bat rays, river otters, and other sea creatures you will encounter at the aquarium!

Why visit Aquarium of the Bay

Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

Sea lions basking on wooden docks at Pier 39, San Francisco, with Alcatraz Island in the background.

Visitors exploring marine life exhibits at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.

1/5

Deep dive into local marine life

From the sevengill shark to playful river otters, bat rays, and majestic white sturgeons, the marine life at Aquarium of the Bay is exclusively curated to provide an authentic glimpse into the local marine life of the San Francisco Bay area.

Things to know before booking your tickets

Your tickets are not timed and you can enter the aquarium at any time within operating hours.
Tickets are one time use only and you cannot re-enter the aquarium with the same ticket.
Minors below the age of 16 can only enter the aquarium with someone 18 years of age or above.
While service animals are more than welcome to accompany you, remember that you cannot bring along pets.
Make use of the fact that the aquarium is conveniently located on Pier 39 and club your aquarium visit with a day of shopping, sailing and sea food experiences on this popular pier.

Here are the highlights of your aquatic adventure

Under the Bay Tunnel

Walk through clear glass tunnels that put you in the center of the marine action where you can watch schools of fish, rays, and sharks glide over and around you.

See all photos

Plan your visit

Timings

Getting there

Accessibility

Facilities

Rules

Dining

Shop

Open hours: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Special hours: 10am to 3pm on November 23 and December 24
Closed: December 25

Address: PIER 39 The Embarcadero &, Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States | Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: Hard Rock Cafe (39 feet)

By bus: Muni Bus 8, Muni Bus 39, and Muni Bus 47 all connect to stops near PIER 39.
Nearest stop: The Embarcadero & Stockton St (1 minute walk to the aquarium)
By rail: Take the F Line streetcar, which stops right across from the aquarium's entrance at PIER 39.
Nearest stop: The Embarcadero & Stockton St (1 minute walk to the aquarium)
By car: Take The Embarcadero along San Francisco’s eastern shoreline to PIER 39 where you can find the aquarium.
Parking: There is paid public parking in the PIER 39 Garage.

Wheelchair accessible: Most parts of the aquarium are accessible for wheelchair users.
Elevator access: Elevators are available to navigate between different levels of the aquarium.
Strollers allowed: You are welcome to bring strollers into the aquarium.
Service animals: Service animals are permitted inside the aquarium for assistance.
Wheelchairs available: A limited number of complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mobility vehicles: The aquarium accommodates mobility vehicles to ensure easy navigation for all guests.

Toilets: Restrooms are available throughout the aquarium.
Paid parking: Paid parking is available at the PIER 39 garage.
First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies or needs.
Souvenir shop: A souvenir shop is located within the aquarium at the end of your aquarium route.

Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the aquarium, except closed-top water bottles.
Smoking cigarettes and e-cigarettes is not permitted anywhere within the aquarium premises.
Do not carry or use laser pointers since they can disturb the animals.
Umbrellas, scissors, knives, aerosol sprays, glass bottles, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted inside to ensure visitor safety.
While you can take pictures inside, flash photography is not allowed as it disturbs marine life.
While you cannot bring pets along, service animals are allowed into the aquarium.
Drones are prohibited from flying over or near the aquarium premises.

Stop over for a quick meal at one of these dining outlets in PIER 39 before or after your visit to the Aquarium of the Bay.

Hard Rock Cafe: Head to Hard Rock Cafe for a dining experience filled with rock-n-roll memorabilia and a menu featuring classic American dishes like their Original Legendary Burger, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, and Baby Back Ribs.
The Hook: If you’re in the mood for seafood, The Hook is a great option with fresh, locally sourced produce in dishes such as fish and chips, clam chowder, fried shrimp, and crab cakes.
Taco Cantina: Taco Cantina offers Mexican fare with bay views. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including puffy tacos filled with carne asada, chicken fajitas, carnitas, and grilled lobster, along with options like nachos, ceviche, and flavorful margaritas.

Take home something from the Aquarium of the Bay to remember your marine exploration. A jellyfish plush toy or a book about the sharks you find at the San Francisco Bay are a great gift for your little ones. Buy yourself some marine-themed apparel like t-shirts and hats that have ocean-themed graphics. You can also opt for eco-friendly products like reusable straws and bags.

Beyond Aquarium of the Bay

Exploratorium

From marine life, move on to the wonders of science and technology at the Exploratorium down the road from the Aquarium of the Bay. With over 1,000 interactive exhibits designed to enchant and engage your senses, this is definitely a must-visit attraction in the area.

San Francisco Zoo

The San Francisco Zoo spans 100 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals, including endangered species and rescued wildlife. Enjoy unique experiences here such as feeding giraffes and watching grizzly bears during breakfast time, along with various engaging exhibits like the Gorilla Preserve and the Lemur Forest.

Alcatraz Island

Formerly a maximum-security federal prison, Alcatraz Island is famously known as "The Rock”. Take a day trip to this historical island that has housed infamous criminals like Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly.

Frequently asked questions about Aquarium of the Bay tickets

What is included in my ticket?

Your Aquarium of the Bay ticket grants admission to the aquarium and access to exhibits such as underwater tunnels and touch pools.

What can I expect to see at the Aquarium of the Bay?

You’ll find a variety of exhibits at the museum that put the spotlight on local marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and rays. Don’t miss the stunning underwater tunnels and interactive touch pools.

Are there any special events or seasonal exhibits?

Yes, the aquarium occasionally hosts special events and themed exhibits like the River Otter Snow Days, Breakfast with Ollie the Otter, and Yoga Under the Sea. Keep an eye on their event calendar for unique experiences.

Are there guided tours available at the aquarium?

Currently, the Aquarium of the Bay primarily offers self-guided experiences. However, you can find staff members throughout the experience to answer questions and share insights.

Are there discounts available for tickets?

If you live in one of the nine San Francisco Bay area counties or are a military personnel, you are eligible for discounted tickets.

How long should I plan to spend at the aquarium?

Keep aside around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the aquarium. However, you can take your time to enjoy the displays at your own pace.

How long are Aquarium of the Bay tickets valid for?

Your tickets are valid for the entire day on the selected date of your visit. Be sure to verify your date when booking.

What is the best time to visit the Aquarium of the Bay?

Visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid peak crowds. The aquarium and PIER 39 tend to be busier during weekends and holidays.

Is there an age limit for visitors?

The aquarium is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children, especially, will love the interactive exhibits and touch pools.

Can I take photos inside the Aquarium?

The aquarium is a great place to take pictures of marine animals from the Bay area. But remember to keep your flash off.