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San Francisco, California / Museums

Aquarium of the Bay

A Smithsonian-affiliated public aquarium at Pier 39 focusing on the diverse aquatic life of the San Francisco Bay and its watershed.

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Aquarium of the Bay
www.aquariumofthebay.org, og_image_www.aquariumofthebay.org

Where is the Aquarium of the Bay located?

The aquarium is located at Pier 39 on the historic San Francisco waterfront, specifically at The Embarcadero and Beach Street.

What are the hours?

The aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry permitted at 4:30 PM.

What is it known for?

It is known for focusing on local aquatic animals from the San Francisco Bay and neighboring watersheds, housing over 24,000 animals from 200+ species. It is also the only Smithsonian-affiliated aquarium in California.

What can I see and do there?

Visitors can explore walk-through tunnel exhibits and transparent touchpools to see sharks, rays, octopus, jellyfish, and river otters. Daily activities include animal feedings, educator presentations, and behind-the-scenes tours, with VIP tours available most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the aquarium offers unique underwater experiences for the entire family, including the ability to feed seals and other aquatic animals.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium located at the intersection of The Embarcadero and Beach Street, situated at the edge of Pier 39 in San Francisco. The facility is a Smithsonian Affiliate and the only one of its kind in the state of California, also certified as a Green Business by the city of San Francisco. Since 2005, the institution has focused its mission on enabling ocean conservation and climate action both locally and globally. The aquarium's collection is dedicated to local aquatic animals from the San Francisco Bay and neighboring rivers and watersheds, extending as far as the Sierra Mountains. It houses over 770,000 gallons of salt water, providing a home for more than 24,000 animals from over 200 species. This diverse animal collection is showcased in various living habitats, including transparent touchpools and walk-through tunnel exhibits that allow visitors to go below the Bay. Visitors can encounter a wide array of marine life, including sleek sharks, rays, hypnotic jellyfish, secretive octopus, and frolicking river otters. The experience is designed to protect, restore, and inspire conservation of the San Francisco Bay and its watershed, from Sierra to the Sea™. Daily special events are available to enhance the visitor experience, including animal feedings, educator presentations, and behind-the-scenes tours. For those seeking a deeper dive, VIP Tours featuring an expert educator are available most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit during a weekday to avoid the largest crowds.
  • General Admission is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm.
  • Check the official website for special discounts before purchasing tickets.

Nearby context

Located at the edge of Pier 39 on the historic San Francisco waterfront, the aquarium is perfectly positioned for those exploring the Embarcadero and the Fisherman's Wharf area.

Sources

Evidence and links