Aquarium of the Bay

"Located on San Francisco’s bustling Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay is home to over 20,000 marine animals native to the San Francisco Bay and nearby waters. "

Recommended For

Families with kids
Walk through shark tunnels, interact with bat rays, and learn with hands-on animal labs

Marine life lovers
View sevengill sharks, jellyfish, and giant Pacific octopuses up close in 300 feet of underwater tunnels

Conservation advocates
Learn about ocean sustainability and support efforts to protect Bay species and habitats

First-time visitors
Start your Pier 39 adventure here—see local sea life, explore touch tanks, and enjoy scenic views

Exhibits

Discover the Bay: Eight themed habitats showcasing rockfish, Garibaldi, eels, anchovies, and baby fish
Under the Bay: 300-foot tunnel with moon jellies, sea nettles, sea bass, and five shark species including sevengill sharks
Touch the Bay: Touch tanks with bat rays, skates, sea stars, and estuary fossils; lab with snakes, hedgehogs, and more

Education & Conservation

Octopus Outreach: Rescues crabbing bycatch octopuses and educates the public on their intelligence and behavior
Bay.org Programs: Year-round beach cleanups, sustainable seafood education, and shoreline protection initiatives
Film & Lecture Series: Co-sponsored by the Bay Institute to promote environmental awareness and inspire action

Insider Tip

Plan your visit for early morning to beat the crowds and take your time exploring the tunnels. Don’t miss the jellyfish exhibit for a serene and stunning viewing experience under ambient light.

Visitor Information

Location: Embarcadero and Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: 415-623-5300 (please note: number corrected from original)
Website: aquariumofthebay.org