Aquarium of the Bay
Aquarium of the Bay
Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay Tours and Tickets

4,347 reviews

Revel in nature’s wonders and discover which creatures call the waters of Northern California home at the hands-on Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf. There, marvel at the wonders of jellyfish or tunnel under sharks to view the true underbelly of marine life in the immersive exhibits.

  • Pier 39, San Francisco, California, 94133

Tours and Tickets to Experience Aquarium of the Bay

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What are people saying about Aquarium of the Bay

Yenny_G, Oct 2023
Lovely
Easier, no wait lines everything was easier, with children was the best way. We got in and out faster
Tresia_E, Sep 2023
It was the best experience to see
Walking through the tunnel. The whole experience was great it great with interacting with the animals ❤️
Katie_C, Aug 2023
Fish out of water
Very beautiful animals! Super easy to directions I just wish they had more animals and blind friendly accommodations on each exhibit! The hands on tide pools were absolutely my favorite! Everyone was so friendly!
Crystal_G, Aug 2023
I enjoyed my time at the...
I enjoyed my time at the aquarium I had a lot of fun there and I learned a lot as well it’s a great place to bring your kids
Frequently Asked Questions
People Also Ask
Q:How long does it take to walk through Aquarium of the Bay?
A:Walking at an average pace, you can see the entire Aquarium of the Bay—meaning all the exhibits—in San Francisco in about 90 minutes. Attending a scheduled presentation, such as an otter-viewing party, can add 10–20 minutes to that time, but you can split up your aquarium visit with in-and-out privileges.
Q:Is Aquarium of the Bay accessible?
A:The Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco is mostly accessible—visitors using wheelchairs need to take an elevator to the main entrance on the second floor. The aquarium also has wheelchairs that guests can borrow by leaving a photo ID on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Q:Can you bring backpacks into Aquarium of the Bay?
A:Yes, you can bring backpacks inside San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay; however, the aquarium is part of Pier 39, where all bags, backpacks, and purses are subject to inspection without advance notice. Also, the aquarium doesn't have storage for personal items such as backpacks, luggage, or strollers.
Q:Should you prebook Aquarium of the Bay tickets?
A:Yes, you should prebook admission tickets to the Aquarium of the Bay. While walk-up tickets can be purchased, it's best to secure your entry and avoid waiting in ticket-purchasing lines. The aquarium is one of the most popular attractions on Pier 39, which becomes full of tourists during summer and the holidays.
Q:What is the best day to visit Aquarium of the Bay?
A:To avoid tourist crowds, skip a weekend visit, and go to the Aquarium of the Bay on a weekday, but remember that school groups sometimes visit during the week. You can also visit during an event like an otter-viewing party—check the aquarium’s event calendar on their website before your visit.
Q:Can you take pictures in Aquarium of the Bay?
A:Yes, you can take pictures at the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco. The aquarium has some particularly photogenic sections, including two underwater tunnels. These tunnels contain about 700,000 gallons (265 million liters) of San Francisco Bay water and are home to sharks, rays, octopuses, and other marine life.