San Francisco Rained Out
San Francisco, California, is a city of stunning beauty and iconic landmarks. Built on a series of hills and surrounded by water on three sides, it is known for its fog, cable cars, and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. The city is a vibrant hub of culture, technology, and history, with a unique character that is both sophisticated and bohemian. As a cruise port, San Francisco offers a perfect blend of world-class attractions and charming, walkable neighborhoods.
⛵ Port Introduction
San Francisco has one main cruise terminal, located at Pier 27 on the northern waterfront. This modern facility is designed to handle large cruise ships, and you'll dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required. The location is excellent, placing you within easy reach of many of the city's key attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 is a sleek, two-story building. Once you disembark, you'll walk a short distance along the pier and into the terminal. The process is smooth and efficient.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities. You'll find restrooms and ample seating inside. While there are a few vending machines, there are no full-service shops or restaurants within the terminal itself. There is also no public Wi-Fi available. Tour pickups and taxi queues are located just outside the main building, making it easy to start your day. The terminal is a short walk from some public transportation stops, and the waterfront promenade is right at your doorstep.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no trouble navigating the city, communicating, or asking for directions.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, from cafes to major department stores. Cash is also widely used, especially for smaller purchases. ATMs are easy to find at banks, inside grocery stores, and throughout the downtown and tourist areas
🚗 Transportation
San Francisco's public transportation system is excellent and can take you to almost any part of the city.
· Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and throughout the city. They are metered and the rates are regulated.
· Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft were founded in San Francisco and are extremely popular and convenient here.
· Public Transportation: The city's MUNI system includes buses, streetcars, and the famous cable cars. The closest MUNI bus stop to the cruise terminal is on The Embarcadero, just a short walk away. From here, you can connect to the rest of the city. The iconic F Market & Wharves streetcar, a line of historic streetcars, runs along the waterfront and is a fun way to get to Fisherman's Wharf or the Ferry Building. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system can take you further into the East Bay or to the airport.
· Cable Cars: A trip to San Francisco wouldn't be complete without a ride on a cable car. While they are a bit more expensive than a regular MUNI bus, they are an attraction in themselves
♿ Accessibility
San Francisco's accessibility is a 6 out of 10. The cruise terminal and the main waterfront area are generally flat and accessible. However, the city's famous hills can be challenging for those with limited mobility. Public transportation is generally accessible, but it's a good idea to check specific routes and stops.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to many of the city's main attractions is on foot. Pier 27 is a short, pleasant walk from Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Ferry Building. You can also hop on the historic F Market & Wharves streetcar right on The Embarcadero for a scenic ride to Fisherman's Wharf or the Ferry Building.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available at major tourist attractions, parks, and museums. Many are clean and well-maintained. You can also find restrooms in cafes and restaurants.
💊 Drugstore
· Walgreens: 1018 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
· CVS Pharmacy: 731 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94103. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
✨Authentic Experience
Explore North Beach and the Beat Generation History: Instead of just sticking to the waterfront, take a walk up to North Beach, San Francisco's historic Little Italy. This neighborhood is known for its incredible restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and a rich literary history. Visit the City Lights Bookstore, a landmark of the Beat Generation, and grab a coffee at one of the neighborhood's many cafes.
Dine on Local Seafood at the Ferry Building Marketplace: While Fisherman's Wharf is a classic choice, for a truly authentic food experience, head to the Ferry Building Marketplace. This historic building is home to dozens of food purveyors selling everything from local oysters and cheese to fresh bread and coffee. You can get a meal to go and enjoy it with a view of the Bay Bridge.
Wander the Presidio and Baker Beach: To get a sense of San Francisco's stunning natural beauty, take a bus or rideshare to the Presidio, a former military post that is now a national park. You can wander through the beautiful trails and cypress groves, and then head to Baker Beach for a breathtaking, postcard-worthy view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to experience the famous San Francisco landscape up close.
