Nearly 16 million people visit San Francisco each year, and more of those people visit Fishermans Wharf than any other area of the city. Indeed, as many as 3,000 people per hour walk through the intersection of Jefferson and Powell during the peak season. What makes Fishermans Wharf so appealing? Read on to learn more about the Wharfs main attractions.
History
Fishermans Wharf began in the 19th century as the home of the San Francisco fishing fleet. At one time there were as many as 500 fishing boats, which were coming and going all day long. The Italians and the Chinese were the main rivals in the fishing industry, but due to the high degree of discrimination against the Chinese, the Italians were able to dominate the business. The area between Taylor and Jones Street is now known as the Italian Harbor, and many of the restaurants, such as Scomas, Tarantinos, Aliotos, and others, are named after their Italian founders.
Pier 39
Pier 39 is the highlight of Fishermans Wharf. Pier 39 attractions include 110 shops, 13 restaurants, the Aquarium of the Bay, and the California sea lions. The sea lions are there throughout most of the year. They only leave...