Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco

What is there to see at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco? I say plenty if you venture a few blocks in all directions. There is enough to keep you busy all day.

This area of San Francisco is crowded and looks touristy but the back drops and bay water give it an unique look. There is the feeling that you are visiting the one-of-kind city near the dock of the bay. Not once do you feel like you are in an enclosed area reserved only for paid admittance.

On Rodeo Drive you do not feel like stepping into a store. Each side of the entrance has a suited young man. How can you browse and maybe buy something? I have experienced that one time. No thanks, Beverly Hills, is not for me. On the other hand I have visited Fisherman's Wharf, at least, on five occasions.

The Row designated One Fisherman's Wharf looks a little shabby, at this point in 2010. The original seafood marketers are on the sidewalk, and the two or three higher end restaurants badly need updating to invite the new younger crowds in. The round cafe across the street needs work, too. It certainly isn't an artist's enclave, but the city definitely hosts the vibe and I come away feeling entertained. The digital photos I brought home from Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco are enjoyable. Many of the pictures are posted here.

Pigeons and Boudion Bread Dining at No.8 Fisherman's Wharf by Paperfacets

One Fisherman's Wharf may not seem very inviting. As you look down toward the water the whole sidewalk is lined with seafood vendors. Seafood displayed and cooked in all methods. This is where you might buy a couple of oysters or fried clams to munch or buy the crab or lobster that you want to prepare at home.

There is a lively business going here, but it is attractive to only the die hard seafood lover. Between the outdoor stands and the buildings are the entrances to the older dining establishments that were famous in the fifties and sixties. It is true that Fisherman's Wharf is all about eating seafood. They are located on the second floors for the views. The one we dined at, No. 9, had fabulous chowder and crab legs at a good price. It looked rather tired and dated but the service and drinks were good. It did not have outdoor dining that is popular now, but we had a window table with a view.

Look at the fisherman's boats from a dining table, at No.9 Fisherman's Wharf, think of Cannery Row by John Steinbeck. Old boats that belong to seasoned fisherman or their sons. Romantic.

On the street beyond is the crowds walking in both directions and restored electric street cars stopping to eject riders and take new ones on. The over done entrances to the Rainbow Cafe and The Wax Museum calling out with faux theme structures and bright colors.

Above right are boats docked at One Fisherman's Wharf. You can tell these are fisherman's boats by the tall net booms on each side. Someone had to tell me that. This is the view from Fisherman's Grotto Restaurant.

Visit No.9's webpage before going to the Wharf or having dinner there. The wharf may seem dated but this establishment's website is updated and excellent. History of No.9 started in 1935. If you think you might go to Fisherman's Wharf do not skip the Web links here. Te area may be more interesting to you.

Many of the older buildings have a modern streamline look. At this restaurant the signs let us know "since 1957".

No.8 in the background to the left is Alioto's. The one time Mayor's seafood restaurant.

Fisherman's Wharf Eateries

One Fisherman's Wharf is a bit run down but there is plenty else to see within a half mile. There is a lot of renewal and Boudin Bakery has a new establishment with store, bakery and restaurant. A big window on the sidewalk gives you a view of the bread being made and a baker giving information by way of a speaker to the outside. Here you can see how the animal and seafood shapes are done.

Nice landscaping along the sidewalk toward Pier 39. Here you can get a ferry to anywhere in the bay by Bay Cruises and Ferries.

No matter which way you turn there is a view of the hilly city or the calm bay with glimpses of the white Oakland Bay Bridge or the bright orange Golden Gate Bridge.

This is western American culture at its peak.

The refurbished electric cars roll by in every color. They come from various cities around the U.S. The cars make the area fun and colorful and highlights the history that is still present. No sterile suburban mall look with all the same corporate stores.

Wear the flats for West Coast walking on the streets. You will walk all day at Fisherman's Wharf and you do not want tired, bloated or hot feet.

Choose walking as a mode of travel or there are the double decker buses, little yellow bathtub cars, Segway type one person vehicle, and bikes galore. The old type electric cars are a new addition to San Francisco transportation. Those are very colorful. Two blocks over from One Fisherman's Wharf is the cable car turn-a-round.

For Segway riding and touring, Google segway sf

Many companies to choose from.

The Paid Attractions are here too. Bring the kids.

Over 10 ships to explore and learn about.

The park issues The Maritime News every three months with the latest going on in the park.

All images by Sherry Venegas