Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the physical address to the aquarium?

PIER 39, The Embarcadero and Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Directions to aquarium from:

Oakland/East Bay via Bay Bridge – TOLL ROAD

  • I-80 West, take Exit 2B Harrison St/Embarcadero, Right turn onto Harrison, Left onto Embarcadero

Marin/North Bay via Golden Gate Bridge – TOLL ROAD

  • HWY 101 South, Exit Marina Blvd/Girard Rd, left onto Girard Rd/Marina Blvd, Left onto Bay Street, Left onto Mason Street, Right onto North Point, Left onto Grant Avenue

San Jose/South Bay/Peninsula

  • VIA 101 North, Exit Fourth Street, Merge onto Bryant Street, Left onto Embarcadero
  • VIA 280 North, Exit King Street/Embarcadero

VIA BART or MUNI

  • Get off train at Embarcadero Station, go to ground level exiting tunnel toward Drumm Street or Spear Street @ street level. Walk to Market Street & Main Street and transfer to the MUNI F-Market Street Car

What forms of payment do you take?

The following payments for aquarium tickets are accepted:

  • Cash
  • Credit card – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, & Discover
  • ATM located in our PIER 39 retail store

What is the minimum age required to enter the Aquarium without adult supervision?

The minimum age required for a minor to enter the Aquarium without adult supervision is 16 years old.

Do you have a parking lot?

No, but Public Parking (Pier 39 Garage) and Street Parking is available (Paid Metered – Restrictions Apply – See SFMTA website for more information)

Do you hold luggage or have stroller storage?

Unfortunately, we do not provide storage for personal items. This includes items for groups and class field trips. We advise to check with the San Francisco Welcome Center located on the 2nd floor of PIER 39 on the West side. 

Is the aquarium accessible via wheelchair?

The aquarium is mostly accessible

  • We have wheelchairs to use during your time at the aquarium, first come first serve, photo ID held during the use of the wheelchair

Are you animal friendly?

Unfortunately, animals are not allowed on PIER 39, with the exception of Service Animals. Please see our page on Service Animals for further information.

How long does it take to go through the entire aquarium?

  • Generally walking through at an average pace, seeing all exhibits, it takes about 90 minutes.
  • Scheduled presentations can extend 10-20 minutes
  • We currently allow in and out privileges to paid customers during our open hours of operation
    NOTE: Due to Covid-19 in and out privileges are based on availability and cannot be guaranteed please speak with the front desk for any questions.

What kind of ticket types do you accept?

The aquarium tickets we accept are print at-home tickets, E-vouchers, Third Party Paper, & E-Vouchers.

Can I visit the Aquarium using San Francisco CityPASS®?

Yes, Aquarium of the Bay is part of CityPASS®. Save 46% on admission to the top 4 San Francisco attractions. One easy purchase and mobile ticket delivery saves you time and money. Learn more about CityPASS®

What is your refund policy?

All purchases are final. This is a non-refundable tour, rescheduling only. All tours MUST be rescheduled within a year of original date. *Subject to availability

All tickets are subject to a non-refundable ticketing fee.

What is your retail store return policy?

Please visit our Retail Return Policy page for the full details.

Do you allow food & drink in the aquarium?

Closed lid drinks are allowed, food is not allowed.

Do you allow Groups (10+ Guests)

LOCAL – School Field Trips (during the school year from 9 Bay Area Counties)

Non-local School Groups (after school programs, outside of Bay Area & school year) AND all non-school groups, Tour & Travel, foreign and domestic groups

  • Contact Sales & Events Supervisor, Sean Hale (415.623.5326)

Do you provide information in other languages?

Foreign Language Audio Tours

  • There are special QR Codes throughout the aquarium that you can scan with your personal phone or tablet.
  • English, French, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin & Spanish

Can you host special events?

Birthday Parties

  • 3 weeks in advance notice needed
  • Contact Sales & Events Supervisor, Sean Hale (415.623.5326)

Special Events, Corporate Luncheons, etc.

  • 3 weeks in advance notice needed
  • Contact Tourism & Events Sales Manager, Hannah Woodall (415.623.5313)

Do you have a membership program?

Yes, our annual membership includes:

You can upgrade your General Admission tickets purchased on-site only, to a membership (we are currently unable to upgrade tickets purchased through a third-party vendor)

  • Individual $119 – Unlimited admission for one adult and one guest for one year (Military & Student discounts with valid ID $90)
  • Family $160 – Unlimited admission for two adults and two children for one year
  • Family PLUS $185 – Unlimited admission for two adults, two children and a flexible guest for one year
  • Ocean Advocate $5,000 and up – Family PLUS membership, volunteer day for up to 25 guests, recognition in our annual report