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Aquarium of the Bay Tickets

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Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Jelly fish in Aquarium of the Bay
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring marine life exhibits at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Jelly fish in Aquarium of the Bay
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring marine life exhibits at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors observing marine life at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Jelly fish in Aquarium of the Bay
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring marine life exhibits at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Visitors exploring underwater tunnel at Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco.
Tickets
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Aquarium of the Bay Tickets

from
$32.75
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Mobile ticket
Flexible duration

Explore San Francisco’s diverse marine life with hands-on exhibits and underwater tunnels, right on the iconic Pier 39!

  • Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and curious minds, the Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at 20,000+ local marine species.
  • Walk through two mesmerizing glass tunnels for a 360-degree view of sharks, rays, and schools of fish swimming overhead and around you.
  • Engage with hands-on touch pools, where you can feel bat rays, sea stars, and other marine creatures in a safe, interactive environment.
  • Learn about marine conservation efforts, including initiatives to protect local habitats and species, visiting both fun and meaningful.

Explore San Francisco’s diverse marine life with hands-on exhibits and underwater tunnels, right on the iconic Pier 39!

  • Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and curious minds, the Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at 20,000+ local marine species.
  • Walk through two mesmerizing glass tunnels for a 360-degree view of sharks, rays, and schools of fish swimming overhead and around you.
  • Engage with hands-on touch pools, where you can feel bat rays, sea stars, and other marine creatures in a safe, interactive environment.
  • Learn about marine conservation efforts, including initiatives to protect local habitats and species, visiting both fun and meaningful.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Aquarium of the Bay
  • Tip: Located at Pier 39, you can easily explore nearby attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, or take a ferry to Alcatraz.
  • Most areas of the aquarium are wheelchair accessible.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
San FranciscoAquarium of the Bay

Top things to do in San Francisco

Aquarium of the Bay: San Francisco’s best marine experience

Get acquainted with the underwater residents of San Francisco Bay at PIER 39, right along the bustling San Francisco waterfront. At the Aquarium of the Bay, you will come across over 24,000 marine animals from more than 200 species, all native to the region! Stay on this page to see the jellyfish, bat rays, river otters, and other sea creatures you will encounter at the aquarium!

Why visit Aquarium of the Bay

1/5

Deep dive into local marine life

From the sevengill shark to playful river otters, bat rays, and majestic white sturgeons, the marine life at Aquarium of the Bay is exclusively curated to provide an authentic glimpse into the local marine life of the San Francisco Bay area.

Walk beneath the waves

At the aquarium, you get to walk through a 300-foot-long acrylic tunnel where sharks, rays, and schools of fish glide above and around you, creating the sensation of walking through an ocean full of life. 

Don’t just see, touch the animals

Get up close and personal with starfish, sea cucumbers, and other marine creatures in the aquarium's touch pools, allowing hands-on interaction with the fascinating marine life.

Perfect location 

Nestled at PIER 39, the aquarium is an exciting attraction and a part of San Francisco's iconic waterfront, surrounded by dining, shopping, and gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Family-friendly activities

From watching the playful antics of river otters to learning about the Bay's diverse ecosystem, the aquarium offers fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect outing for families.

Things to know before booking your ticket

  • Your tickets are not timed and you can enter the aquarium at any time within operating hours.
  • Tickets are one time use only and you cannot re-enter the aquarium with the same ticket.
  • Minors below the age of 16 can only enter the aquarium with someone 18 years of age or above.
  • While service animals are more than welcome to accompany you, remember that you cannot bring along pets.
  • Make use of the fact that the aquarium is conveniently located on Pier 39 and club your aquarium visit with a day of shopping, sailing and sea food experiences on this popular pier.

Here are the highlights of your aquatic adventure

Under the Bay Tunnel - Aquarium of the Bay

Under the Bay Tunnel

Walk through clear glass tunnels that put you in the center of the marine action where you can watch schools of fish, rays, and sharks glide over and around you.

Touch the Bay - Aquarium of the Bay
River Otter exhibit Aquarium of the Bay
Bay Lab Aquarium of the Bay
Jellies Aquarium of the Bay
Sevengill shark feedings
Giant Pacific Octopus
See all photos

Plan your visit

Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Facilities
Rules
Dining
Shop
Aquarium of the Bay

Open hours: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Special hours: 10am to 3pm on November 23 and December 24
Closed: December 25

Address: PIER 39 The Embarcadero &, Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States | Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: Hard Rock Cafe (39 feet)

  • By bus: Muni Bus 8, Muni Bus 39, and Muni Bus 47 all connect to stops near PIER 39.
  • Nearest stop: The Embarcadero & Stockton St (1 minute walk to the aquarium) 
  • By rail: Take the F Line streetcar, which stops right across from the aquarium's entrance at PIER 39. 
  • Nearest stop: The Embarcadero & Stockton St  (1 minute walk to the aquarium)
  • By car: Take The Embarcadero along San Francisco’s eastern shoreline to PIER 39 where you can find the aquarium.
  • Parking: There is paid public parking in the PIER 39 Garage.
Aquarium of the Bay
  • Wheelchair accessible: Most parts of the aquarium are accessible for wheelchair users. 
  • Elevator access: Elevators are available to navigate between different levels of the aquarium.
  • Strollers allowed: You are welcome to bring strollers into the aquarium.
  • Service animals: Service animals are permitted inside the aquarium for assistance.
  • Wheelchairs available: A limited number of complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Mobility vehicles: The aquarium accommodates mobility vehicles to ensure easy navigation for all guests.
Aquarium of the Bay
  • Toilets: Restrooms are available throughout the aquarium.
  • Paid parking: Paid parking is available at the PIER 39 garage.
  • First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies or needs.
  • Souvenir shop: A souvenir shop is located within the aquarium at the end of your aquarium route.
Aquarium of the Bay
  • Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the aquarium, except closed-top water bottles.
  • Smoking cigarettes and e-cigarettes is not permitted anywhere within the aquarium premises.
  • Do not carry or use laser pointers since they can disturb the animals.
  • Umbrellas, scissors, knives, aerosol sprays, glass bottles, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted inside to ensure visitor safety.
  • While you can take pictures inside, flash photography is not allowed as it disturbs marine life.
  • While you cannot bring pets along, service animals are allowed into the aquarium.
  • Drones are prohibited from flying over or near the aquarium premises.
Aquarium of the Bay

Stop over for a quick meal at one of these dining outlets in PIER 39 before or after your visit to the Aquarium of the Bay.

  • Hard Rock Cafe: Head to Hard Rock Cafe for a dining experience filled with rock-n-roll memorabilia and a menu featuring classic American dishes like their Original Legendary Burger, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, and Baby Back Ribs.
  • The Hook: If you’re in the mood for seafood, The Hook is a great option with fresh, locally sourced produce in dishes such as fish and chips, clam chowder, fried shrimp, and crab cakes.
  • Taco Cantina: Taco Cantina offers Mexican fare with bay views. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including puffy tacos filled with carne asada, chicken fajitas, carnitas, and grilled lobster, along with options like nachos, ceviche, and flavorful margaritas.
Aquarium of the Bay

Take home something from the Aquarium of the Bay to remember your marine exploration. A jellyfish plush toy or a book about the sharks you find at the San Francisco Bay are a great gift for your little ones. Buy yourself some marine-themed apparel like t-shirts and hats that have ocean-themed graphics. You can also opt for eco-friendly products like reusable straws and bags.

Beyond Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay

Exploratorium

From marine life, move on to the wonders of science and technology at the Exploratorium down the road from the Aquarium of the Bay. With over 1,000 interactive exhibits designed to enchant and engage your senses, this is definitely a must-visit attraction in the area.

Aquarium of the Bay

San Francisco Zoo

The San Francisco Zoo spans 100 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals, including endangered species and rescued wildlife. Enjoy unique experiences here such as feeding giraffes and watching grizzly bears during breakfast time, along with various engaging exhibits like the Gorilla Preserve and the Lemur Forest.

Aquarium of the Bay

Alcatraz Island

Formerly a maximum-security federal prison, Alcatraz Island is famously known as "The Rock”. Take a day trip to this historical island that has housed infamous criminals like Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly.

Frequently asked questions about Aquarium of the Bay tickets

What is included in my ticket?

Your Aquarium of the Bay ticket grants admission to the aquarium and access to exhibits such as underwater tunnels and touch pools. 

What can I expect to see at the Aquarium of the Bay?

You’ll find a variety of exhibits at the museum that put the spotlight on local marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and rays. Don’t miss the stunning underwater tunnels and interactive touch pools.

Are there any special events or seasonal exhibits?

Yes, the aquarium occasionally hosts special events and themed exhibits like the River Otter Snow Days, Breakfast with Ollie the Otter, and Yoga Under the Sea. Keep an eye on their event calendar for unique experiences.

Are there guided tours available at the aquarium?

Currently, the Aquarium of the Bay primarily offers self-guided experiences. However, you can find staff members throughout the experience to answer questions and share insights.

Are there discounts available for tickets?

If you live in one of the nine San Francisco Bay area counties or are a military personnel, you are eligible for discounted tickets.

How long should I plan to spend at the aquarium?

Keep aside around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the aquarium. However, you can take your time to enjoy the displays at your own pace.

How long are Aquarium of the Bay tickets valid for?

Your tickets are valid for the entire day on the selected date of your visit. Be sure to verify your date when booking.

What is the best time to visit the Aquarium of the Bay?

Visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid peak crowds. The aquarium and PIER 39 tend to be busier during weekends and holidays.

Is there an age limit for visitors?

The aquarium is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children, especially, will love the interactive exhibits and touch pools.

Can I take photos inside the Aquarium?

The aquarium is a great place to take pictures of marine animals from the Bay area. But remember to keep your flash off.