Aquarium of the Bay: Dive into San Francisco’s Waterfront Marine World with 300+ Local Bay Species

Claim to Fame

Aquarium of the Bay is San Francisco’s only aquarium dedicated to local Bay and Delta ecosystems—home to over 300 species and famous for its underwater tunnel where sharks, rays, and schools of fish swim overhead.

📌 Navigating Aquarium of the Bay : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are accessible and conveniently located within the aquarium.
Hours of Operation: The aquarium operates daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons.
Important Information: It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long wait times.
Admission Fee: Admission fees vary by age; discounts are often available for children, seniors, and groups.
How Long to Visit: Visitors typically spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits.
Parking: Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited and may require payment.
Family Friendly: The aquarium is family-friendly, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs for children.
Photography: Photography is permitted, but the use of flash and tripods may be restricted in certain areas.
WIFI: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the aquarium for visitors.
Picnic Area: A picnic area is not provided, but nearby parks offer options for outdoor dining.
Handicap Accessible: Aquarium of the Bay is handicap accessible, with accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
Pets: Pets are not allowed inside the aquarium, with the exception of service animals.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and provide in-depth information about the exhibits and marine life.
Restaurant or Cafe: There is a café on-site offering a variety of snacks and meals suitable for all ages.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is available, featuring marine-themed souvenirs, educational toys, and apparel.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Aquarium of the Bay

Located at Pier 39 on The Embarcadero, Aquarium of the Bay brings you face-to-face with the Bay’s underwater inhabitants. Wander through clear acrylic tunnels as bat rays and leopard sharks glide above, then explore touch pools of sea stars, crabs, and anemones. With immersive exhibits highlighting kelp forests, marshlands, and deep-water environments, the aquarium illuminates the diversity and fragility of the Bay Area’s marine habitats.

What to Expect

Begin in the Discover the Bay gallery, where interactive displays explain local tides, tides of urban runoff, and conservation challenges. Step into the Under the Bay Tunnel to watch hundreds of fish swirl above and beside you. In the Rocky Shore touch pools, gently handle anemones and crabs under staff guidance. The Kelp Forest exhibit showcases towering fronds and colorful garibaldi fish, while the Shark & Ray Touch Pool lets you feel the smooth backs of cownose rays.

Daily programs—such as Aquarium A —“Aquarist Chats”—offer behind-the-scenes insights into animal care, feeding routines, and rescue efforts with local marine mammals. Family-friendly “Storytime by the Bay” engages young visitors with marine tales and crafts, and seasonal “Night Dive” events extend hours for adult-only exploration with themed cocktails.

Background and Cultural Context

Opened in 1986, Aquarium of the Bay pioneered public education about San Francisco Bay’s unique estuarine environment. Operated by Bay Ecotarium, a nonprofit alliance dedicated to regional aquatic stewardship, the aquarium partners with local schools, research institutions, and rescue organizations to rehabilitate seabirds and marine mammals and to restore native habitats.

Its conservation mission includes citizen-science water-quality monitoring programs, sustainable seafood campaigns, and annual Bay Day volunteer cleanups—ensuring the Bay’s health for future generations while honoring the legacy of indigenous Ohlone communities who first relied on these waters.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10–11 AM) offer quieter galleries and prime touch-pool access before crowds arrive. Late afternoons (3–5 PM) provide soft light in the tunnel and shorter lines at interactive stations. Summer evenings on Fridays feature extended “Night Dive” hours (open until 8 PM) with special programs—reserve tickets online to guarantee entry.

How to Get There

Aquarium of the Bay is at Pier 39 (Beach Street & The Embarcadero). Muni: F Market streetcar to The Embarcadero & Beach; 8, 30, 45 buses stop nearby. BART: Embarcadero Station, then a 10-minute walk along the waterfront. Parking is available at the Pier 39 garage (validated rates for aquarium guests); bike racks line the entrance plaza.

Photo Opportunities

Underwater Tunnel shot with bat rays and leopard sharks silhouetted above
Garibaldi fish darting through kelp fronds in the Kelp Forest exhibit
Child’s hand gently touching a sea star in the Rocky Shore touch pool
Sunset view of the aquarium façade reflected in the Bay waters
Behind-the-scenes glimpse of aquarists feeding jellyfish in the Moon Jellies exhibit

Travel Tips

Buy timed-entry tickets online to skip the admission line and secure your preferred slot.
Arrive 15 minutes before your ticket time to catch the first Aquarist Chat of the day.
Wear non-slip shoes—the tunnel floor may be damp from nearby exhibits.
Combine with a Bay boat cruise departing next door for a full aquatic adventure.
Check the schedule for daily “Feeding Frenzy” shows and special seasonal events.

FAQs

Are touch pools open year-round?
Yes—touch pools are open daily, with staff supervision; check posted schedules for temporary closures during cleaning.

Is the aquarium accessible?
Fully ADA-compliant with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms; wheelchairs and strollers are available free at the front desk.

Can I bring outside food?
No—outside food and drink are not allowed inside; vending machines and snack bars are available in the lobby.

Are group rates available?
Yes—special pricing for school groups, corporate outings, and families of four or more; inquire online for details.

Final Thoughts

Aquarium of the Bay invites you to discover the hidden wonders of San Francisco’s waterfront ecosystem. From the hush of the kelp forest to the thrill of the shark tunnel, this hands-on aquarium fosters connection, conservation, and a deeper appreciation for the vibrant life beneath the Bay’s surface.

Things To Do near Aquarium of the Bay

Fisherman's Wharf

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Fisherman's Wharf is 1 Kilometer(s) / 0.6 Mile(s)

Exploratorium

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Exploratorium is 2.1 Kilometer(s) / 1.3 Mile(s)

Chinatown

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Chinatown is 2.6 Kilometer(s) / 1.6 Mile(s)

Alcatraz Island

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Alcatraz Island is 3.7 Kilometer(s) / 2.3 Mile(s)

Union Square

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Union Square is 3.7 Kilometer(s) / 2.3 Mile(s)

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

Palace of Fine Arts

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Palace of Fine Arts is 5.5 Kilometer(s) / 3.4 Mile(s)

Golden Gate Bridge

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Golden Gate Bridge is 9.8 Kilometer(s) / 6.1 Mile(s)

California Academy of Sciences

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to California Academy of Sciences is 10.5 Kilometer(s) / 6.5 Mile(s)

Golden Gate Park

The Distance from Aquarium of the Bay to Golden Gate Park is 12.9 Kilometer(s) / 8 Mile(s)

📘 San Francisco Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: San Francisco operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST), which is UTC -8. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), UTC -7.

Weather: San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate with cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer highs are around 19°C (66°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F). Coastal fog is common, especially in the mornings.

Population: San Francisco has a population of approximately 815,000 people, with over 4.5 million in the greater Bay Area. The city is known for its diversity, progressive culture, and vibrant tech economy.

Size: San Francisco spans about 121 square kilometers (47 square miles), making it one of the most compact major cities in the U.S. It is built on steep hills and surrounded on three sides by water, contributing to its iconic skyline.

Language: English is the primary language spoken in San Francisco. Due to the city’s diversity, many residents also speak Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Tagalog, and other languages.

Currency: The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards, mobile payments, and contactless systems are widely accepted across the city.

Safety: San Francisco is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. However, petty crimes like car break-ins and theft can occur. Visitors should avoid leaving valuables in parked vehicles and stay alert in certain neighborhoods.

Tipping: Tipping is standard in San Francisco. A 15–20% tip is customary in restaurants, and gratuities are also expected for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and other service providers.

Electricity and Plugs: The United States uses 120V electricity at 60Hz. Plug types A and B are standard. Travelers from countries using other systems should bring an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Water: Tap water in San Francisco is safe to drink and sourced from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in the Sierra Nevada. It is known for its high quality and pleasant taste.

Annual Visitors: San Francisco attracts over 20 million visitors annually. Major attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and historic cable cars.

Visa Requirements: Most international visitors need a valid passport and may require a visa or ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Entry requirements vary by country of origin.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for visiting San Francisco. Routine immunizations such as measles, flu, and COVID-19 are recommended, especially during winter and flu season.

Transportation: San Francisco has an extensive public transportation system, including Muni buses, metro, cable cars, and BART trains. Walking is common, but the city’s hills can be challenging. Rideshares and taxis are also widely available.

Food: San Francisco’s culinary scene is world-renowned. Local favorites include sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission-style burritos. The city also offers diverse global cuisines and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: San Franciscans are known for being progressive, informal, and inclusive. It’s common to greet with a smile or casual conversation. Cultural openness and respect for diversity are highly valued.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, libraries, and public spaces. Mobile coverage is strong throughout the city, and SIM cards are easily available from major U.S. carriers.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is advised when visiting San Francisco to cover medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and theft. U.S. healthcare is high quality but can be expensive without coverage.

Did You Know? - Facts About Aquarium of the Bay

The aquarium is also dedicated to conservation and education, offering programs that teach visitors about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabit them.

Aquarium of the Bay is part of the Bay Institute, a nonprofit organization that works to protect and restore the ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay and its watershed.

The aquarium’s Touch the Bay exhibit allows visitors to get hands-on with local marine life, including bat rays, sea stars, and leopard sharks, making it a favorite among children and families.

The Aquarium of the Bay, located at Pier 39 in San Francisco, focuses on the diverse marine life of the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters, featuring over 20,000 animals.

One of the aquarium’s main attractions is the underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk through a 300-foot-long glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other marine creatures.