San Francisco Aquarium of the Bay General Admission Ticket
Set along the Embarcadero at bustling Pier 39, Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at the marine life that thrives in the waters around San Francisco. Your general admission ticket allows you to explore multiple exhibit areas at your leisure, each spotlighting the incredible creatures found in and around the Bay. Discover more than 20,000 aquatic residents as you spend the entire day (if you’d like) wandering among colorful tanks and tunnels.Discover the Bay Exhibit
Curious about the habits of schooling anchovies, or how a newborn skate navigates its watery surroundings? Find the answers here, where you’ll also encounter bright green moray eels and the vibrant orange garibaldi—California’s official state marine fish.Under the Bay Exhibit
Venture into a 300-foot-long clear tunnel where sharks, octopuses, and giant sea bass glide around and above you. Spot graceful moon jellies, hypnotic Pacific sea nettles, and a rainbow of starfish, all while surrounded by a vivid underwater panorama. Enjoy the entire aquarium at your own pace, and learn fascinating details about San Francisco’s marine environment at every turn.
Overview
Set along the Embarcadero at bustling Pier 39, Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at the marine life that thrives in the waters around San Francisco. Your general admission ticket allows you to explore multiple exhibit areas at your leisure, each spotlighting the incredible creatures found in and around the Bay. Discover more than 20,000 aquatic residents as you spend the entire day (if you’d like) wandering among colorful tanks and tunnels.
Discover the Bay Exhibit Curious about the habits of schooling anchovies, or how a newborn skate navigates its watery surroundings? Find the answers here, where you’ll also encounter bright green moray eels and the vibrant orange garibaldi—California’s official state marine fish.
Under the Bay Exhibit Venture into a 300-foot-long clear tunnel where sharks, octopuses, and giant sea bass glide around and above you. Spot graceful moon jellies, hypnotic Pacific sea nettles, and a rainbow of starfish, all while surrounded by a vivid underwater panorama. Enjoy the entire aquarium at your own pace, and learn fascinating details about San Francisco’s marine environment at every turn.
Itinerary
Aquarium of the Bay
When you arrive at Aquarium of the Bay, located on San Francisco’s bustling Embarcadero (also home to other attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf, the Pier 39 sea lions, Boudin Bakery and the ferries to Alcatraz Island), head inside with your general admission ticket and begin your self-guided exploration of the aquarium.
Your admission allows you to visit the aquarium’s main exhibit areas. With a focus on the marine life of San Francisco Bay and its surrounding bodies of water, the Aquarium of the Bay is home to 20,000-plus animals that live in 700,000 gallons (2.6 million liters) of carefully maintained bay water. Stay at the aquarium as long as you like to learn about sea creatures like jellyfish, octopus, and sharks.
Discover the Bay exhibit:
See orange garibaldi, green moray eels, colorful rockfish, and other wildlife native to the San Francisco Bay. Learn about how anchovies stick together and avoid predators, and find out how the bay acts as a breeding ground for perch and many other fish.
Under the Bay exhibit:
Walk through a 300-foot (90-meter) tunnel system of clear glass for a look at the fascinating fish and other sea life in the bay and nearby Pacific waters. See mesmerizing jellyfish, a giant Pacific octopus, graceful rays, sturgeon, and multiple local shark species like sevengill sharks, leopard sharks, soupfin sharks, and spiny dogfish.
Admission Included
Location
Address
Pier 39, Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Admission to the Aquarium of the Bay
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Free admission for children ages 3 and under
- Wheelchair and stroller accessible
- The aquarium is open every day except Christmas Day
- Current operating hours are 11am-6pm
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Traveler Ratings
See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences
3.5 / 5
3.51 out of 5 stars
Based on 274 reviews
Review histogram
5
- 36%
4
- 19%
3
- 19%
2
- 12%
1
- 14%
Traveler Reviews
Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences
Related Attractions
Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience
San Francisco Aquarium of the Bay ticketsSan Francisco Aquarium of the Bay tickets
Experience the wonder of the San Francisco Aquarium of the Bay, where thousands of local aquatic animals are waiting to greet you. Located at the world-famous PIER 39 and on San Francisco’s iconic waterfront, Aquarium of the Bay provides an u...
$32
per adult
Aquarium of the Bay - Ticket OnlyAquarium of the Bay - Ticket Only
The Aquarium of the Bay at PIER 39 facility proudly showcases 300 feet of crystal-clear acrylic tunnels containing 700,000 gallons of meticulously maintained bay water, providing habitat for approximately 20,000 animals, ranging from octopi t...
$35
per adult

VIP Experience at Aquarium of the BayVIP Experience at Aquarium of the Bay
If you're going to San Francisco, you just can't miss the Aquarium of the Bay. Located at Pier 39, this amazing aquarium is home to 20,000 local sea creatures ready for seeing and even touching. With a 300-foot underwater tunnel, nature talks, and th...
$66
per adult
Monterey, Carmel & The 17-Mile DriveMonterey, Carmel & The 17-Mile Drive
Travel scenic California’s Pacific Coast Highway 1 to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, famous for its spectacular ocean views, abundant wildlife, and historical past. Make stops at Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck, and visit great ...
$139
per adult
The San Francisco Sightseeing Flex Pass: Choice of 2 - 6 AttractionsThe San Francisco Sightseeing Flex Pass: Choice of 2 - 6 Attractions
Looking for the ultimate San Francisco adventure? The Sightseeing Flex Pass is the golden ticket to unlock the city's treasures! Dive into the Aquarium of the Bay and befriend the local aquatic life, or hop on a bike for a full day of cruisin...
$79
per adult
Alcatraz Evening Tour and Yosemite Day Tour with AquariumAlcatraz Evening Tour and Yosemite Day Tour with Aquarium
Take in three top northern California destinations over two consecutive days during your stay in San Francisco. On the first day, visit Alcatraz Island in the late afternoon, and use your all-day access pass to Aquarium of the Bay at your lei...
$309
per adult
San Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW BusSan Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW Bus
Hop aboard a vintage Volkswagen bus for a San Francisco city tour to remember. Travel down streets a typical tour bus can't access while your guide fills you in on the history of the City by the Bay, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley. Get ...
$129
per adult
San Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking TourSan Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour
See a side of San Francisco that many visitors overlook—and soak up the city’s local feel—on this small-group walking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon start times, and meet your guide in the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Over the course ...
$35
per adult
San Francisco North Beach Culinary ExperienceSan Francisco North Beach Culinary Experience
Join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts in the bustling heart of North Beach for an approximately three-hour exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant past and culinary highlights. As you stroll along an easy, flat route, listen to your...
$115
per adult
San Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving TourSan Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving Tour
See the best of San Francisco (and Sausalito, its neighbor across the Golden Gate Bridge) in one trip—and enjoy an insider’s perspective as you go—on this small-group tour. Following the morning pickup, set off via vehicle to discover highlig...
$125
per adult
San Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking TourSan Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking Tour
Skip your usual San Francisco city tour for this walk with a master storyteller, focusing on the folklore and fairytales of the “City by the Bay.” Visit the Mission, the Castro, and the Duboce Triangle neighborhoods with your guide: a publish...
$32
per adult
San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking TourSan Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour
Discover the spooky tales of San Francisco's past and pass by places that are said to be haunted when you embark on this ghost tour in the Pacific Heights district. Walk about one mile at a moderate pace with your guide who shares stories of ...
$30
per adult
Private Open-Top Jeep City Highlights TourPrivate Open-Top Jeep City Highlights Tour
Enjoy a seamless way to explore San Francisco’s highlights—and unobstructed views of the scenery—on this private open-top Jeep tour. Pick from morning and afternoon start times, meet your guide at Fisherman’s Wharf, and hop aboard. You can lo...
$169
per adult
Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time MachineEmperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine
Meet one of San Francisco’s larger-than-life historical figures, Emperor Norton, for a walking tour that makes the city’s history come alive. Learn about the real Emperor Norton as you take in landmarks such as Union Square, Maiden Lane, Lott...
$30
per adult
San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing CruiseSan Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise
Head out on a one-and-a-half-hour excursion through the heart of San Francisco Bay aboard a nimble, rigid inflatable boat. Departing from Pier 39, you’ll be outfitted with gear to stay warm and dry. Cruise past city icons such as Alcatraz Isl...
$109
per adult
San Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, CastroSan Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, Castro
Ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge on a guided e-bike tour that explores some of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Cycling San Francisco is a great way to experience the city at street level, but steep hills make...
$119
per adult
San Francisco to Muir Woods ShuttleSan Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle
Location: Our shuttle to Muir Woods departs from Dylan's Tours Shop in 782 Columbus Ave. at 8:00 AM or 2:00 PMWe are the only company in San Francisco offering a round-trip, direct shuttle from San Francisco to Muir Woods! Enjoy stunni...
$89
per adult
The Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's WharfThe Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's Wharf
The Escape Game San Francisco: Fisherman’s Wharf is set right next to delicious dining, endless entertainment, and of course, the beautiful views of the bay! A few of our favorite places to eat include Boudin, Grandeho's Kamekyo, and Pizza Zo...
$45
per adult

Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane TourGolden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour
Take off from the waters of the San Francisco Bay and fly high above this gorgeous city of tall buildings, steep hills and trolly cars. Choose to meet your tour at the Seaplane base in Mill Valley or book a roundtrip shuttle from Fisherman's Wharf. C...
$266
per adult

Secret Food Tours San FranciscoSecret Food Tours San Francisco
You will have the opportunity to discover both the local latino inspired dishes as well as the myriad of cultures that have made their imprint on the Mission today. You will enter a community that fosters stunning political street art, both on the ma...
$79
per adult

Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran CruiseGolden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise
Experience the beauty of San Francisco Bay on a round-trip catamaran cruise. Take in San Francisco's breathtaking skyline as you sail by Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge. Feel the breeze and keep a look out for sea lions. Admire your...
$58
per adult
Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional AlcatrazMuir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz
Set off on a small-group journey through San Francisco’s eclectic districts, beginning in Chinatown and North Beach—two neighborhoods bursting with culture, culinary delights, and lively streetscapes. Next, discover the bohemian spirit of the...
$119
per adult

Silent Disco Yoga at Baker BeachSilent Disco Yoga at Baker Beach
Let the elements embrace you as you engage in purposeful movement, enjoy specially selected music for your journey, and benefit from the wisdom of our skilled instructors at San Francisco's famous Baker Beach. Silent disco-style headphones are used t...
$29
per adult
Golden Gate Helicopter AdventureGolden Gate Helicopter Adventure
Lift off the seaside helipad with impressive views from the helicopter’s bubble windows. As you reach cruising altitude, take in the sparkling waters of Sausalito and Tiburon meeting the shores. Take in the sights, island-hopping over histori...
$384
per adult
Yosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San FranciscoYosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San Francisco
Begin your adventure with a convenient pickup from select San Francisco hotels, then relax aboard a comfortable minibus as you head east. Your first stop is a hike among massive giant sequoias—redwoods so old and large that some trunks measur...
$229
per adult
San Francisco Bay Sailing CruiseSan Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise
Swap the city shoreline for the open water on this sailing excursion around San Francisco Bay. Board the 55- or 65-foot (17- or 20-meter) Adventure Cat catamaran from the Embarcadero and glide away from the waterfront, snappi...
$69
per adult

Golden Gate Helicopter AdventureGolden Gate Helicopter Adventure
Soar over San Francisco in a helicopter and take in the breathtaking views. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge and the Golden Gate National Reserve with tour narration from your pilot; there is no better way to enjoy the dramatic and ever-evolving San Fra...
$302
per adult

Seaplane Flight with ChampagneSeaplane Flight with Champagne
Have you come to San Francisco with that special someone and you're looking for a fun and exciting adventure to share together? Take a premium flight for your special occasion over the romantic and iconic Golden Gate Bridge. After you're airborne, th...
$346
per adult
San Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided HikeSan Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided Hike
Find your way to the historic Castro Theater in San Francisco's Castro district for your moderate 5-mile (8-km) urban hike. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes to tackle the city's famous hills and bring some drinking water. Start with...
$54
per adult
San Francisco Bay Private Sailboat CruiseSan Francisco Bay Private Sailboat Cruise
Boats that usually take groups out on the San Francisco Bay can be super crowded and it can even be hard to see the views. This San Francisco Bay Private Sailboat Cruise takes just you and your group out on the water, so you never have to wor...
$695
per adult
The Walt Disney Family Museum general admission ticketsThe Walt Disney Family Museum general admission tickets
Take a walk through time and relive childhood memories at the Walt Disney Family Museum. Learn about the magical history, achievements and legacy of Walt Disney through memorabilia dedicated to his life’s work. Located in the heart of The Pre...
$24
per adult
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) AdmissionSKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission
San Francisco's Exploratorium is more than just a fun and educational museum during daytime - it's a lot of fun on Thursday nights, too. Step into a world of science, art, and human perception at night with over 650 hands-on exhibits designed...
$23
per adult

SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) AdmissionSKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission
San Francisco's Exploratorium is more than just a fun and educational museum during daytime - it's a lot of fun on Thursday nights, too. Step into a world of science, art, and human perception at night with over 650 hands-on exhibits designed to bogg...
$23
per adult

California Academy of Sciences: Entry TicketCalifornia Academy of Sciences: Entry Ticket
Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is the world’s only aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all housed under one incredible living roof. There’s something for someone ...
$55
per adult
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission TicketSan Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket
Bring the whole family to the Exploratorium, now conveniently located on San Francisco’s vibrant Embarcadero at Pier 15, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. With a full-day general admission ticket, you’re free to discover this ...
$40
per adult

Legion of Honor: Entry TicketLegion of Honor: Entry Ticket
The Legion of Honor sounds like an assembly of superheroes, but it's not. This museum in San Francisco still packs a punch though. Inside, you'll find an unrivalled collection of art. There's over 124,000 works spanning 4,000 years, from European scu...
$20
per adult
Legion of Honor: Entry TicketLegion of Honor: Entry Ticket
The Legion of Honor sounds like an assembly of superheroes, but it's not. This museum in San Francisco still packs a punch though. Inside, you'll find an unrivalled collection of art. There's over 124,000 works spanning 4,000 years, from Euro...
$20
per adult
San Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy HourSan Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy Hour
On Thursday evenings after the Exploratorium closes, crowds of everyone from computer programmers to fashion designers pour in to nourish their curiosity. It's a weekly gathering of inquisitive minds (ages 18+) amid a festive atmosphere with ...
$23
per adult