San Francisco, CA
Welcome to the iconic city of San Francisco, a premier cruise port on the West Coast. Sailing under the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge is an unforgettable experience offered on itineraries from top cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
As a gateway to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, and Hawaii, the city's unique blend of historic landmarks, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty makes it a highlight of any voyage.
For more information on San Francisco, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the San Francisco City Guide
One of the most popular excursions is a trip to Alcatraz Island, the infamous former federal prison. It is highly recommended to book tickets weeks or even months in advance as they sell out quickly. The ferry departs from Pier 33, a short walk from the cruise terminal.
A visit isn't complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. While you sail under it, you can also get closer by taking a short taxi ride to a viewpoint or even walking partway across the bridge for incredible photos.
Just steps from the port is the bustling Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, famous for its noisy sea lions, fresh seafood, and myriad of souvenir shops. For a classic San Francisco experience, hop on one of the historic Cable Cars for a scenic ride up the city's steep hills.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
A short and scenic ferry ride across the bay takes you to the charming bayside town of Sausalito. Known for its art galleries, waterfront restaurants, and stunning views of the city skyline, it's an easy and rewarding half-day trip.
For nature lovers, a tour to Muir Woods National Monument offers a chance to walk among towering old-growth redwood trees. Located about 45 minutes north of the city, this peaceful sanctuary is best visited via a pre-booked shore excursion to manage transportation and park entry reservations.
A longer day trip can take you to the world-renowned wine regions of Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley. Roughly a 90-minute drive away, organized wine tasting tours are the best way to experience the beautiful vineyards and sample local vintages without worrying about the drive back to the port.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The cruise ship terminal is conveniently located at Pier 27 on The Embarcadero, the city's eastern waterfront. This prime location places you within easy walking distance of popular attractions like Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, and the historic North Beach neighborhood.
Downtown San Francisco and the main shopping district around Union Square are about 1.5 miles away, easily reachable via a short taxi, ride-share, or a ride on the historic F-Line streetcar that runs along the waterfront. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Other currencies like the Euro are not accepted in shops or restaurants.
ATMs are widely available throughout the city, including near the cruise port, and offer the most convenient way to get cash. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are accepted almost everywhere. It is a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for minor purchases or tips, but you can rely on credit cards for most transactions.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
San Francisco is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas like Fisherman's Wharf and on public transportation, so keep your valuables secure.
Car break-ins are a significant issue, so if you rent a vehicle, never leave any belongings visible inside. While most tourist areas are safe to explore independently during the day, it is advisable to avoid the Tenderloin neighborhood, which borders popular areas like Union Square.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
San Francisco is famous for its microclimates and year-round mild weather. During the main cruise season from spring through fall, expect temperatures to range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).
The city's iconic fog often rolls in during the morning and evening, especially in the summer, which can make it feel cool even on a sunny day. The key to comfort is dressing in layers; always bring a sweater or jacket, regardless of the season. The rainy season is typically in the winter, so spring and fall cruises usually enjoy dry weather. Hurricanes are not a concern in this part of the world.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Getting around San Francisco from the cruise port is very manageable. Many attractions along the waterfront are within walking distance. For longer distances, the city's Muni system is a great option, including the historic F-Line streetcar which stops right near the cruise terminal.
The iconic San Francisco cable cars are a must-do experience, with lines accessible a short walk or streetcar ride from the port. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are abundant and provide a convenient way to reach any part of the city. For a fun way to see the sights, you might consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which has stops near the port.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
For premier shopping, head to Union Square, the heart of the city's shopping district, featuring major department stores, luxury brands, and famous retailers. You can reach it via a short cable car or taxi ride from the port.
Near the port, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a food-lover's paradise, offering artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and local produce. For souvenirs, the shops at Fisherman's Wharf and Ghirardelli Square offer everything from t-shirts to locally made chocolates and sourdough bread. Prices in stores are fixed, and haggling is not a common practice.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Enjoy an introduction to San Francisco on this 5 to 6-hour tour led by Bay Area Native guides. You will be driven through diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and North Beach, with several stops for photo opportunities. The tour also includes a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge to admire the redwoods of Muir Woods and a visit to the waterfront town of Sausalito.
Avoid the crowds of large buses and discover San Francisco in a luxury van. This small-group experience allows you to see more neighborhoods and enjoy more photo stops than a typical tour. Your guide will take you to see views of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks, and several other famous landmarks.
Experience San Francisco from a new perspective on this authentic tour in a vintage Volkswagen van. Your guide will navigate through 14 famed districts, stopping for photos of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and other storied landmarks. Hear tales about everything from the 1849 Gold Rush to 1960s counterculture, gaining insights only a local would know.
Enjoy an unforgettable night out with Jay Alexander, San Francisco’s premier mentalist and magician, in an exclusive performance. This experience takes place inside a stunning, hidden theater where you will be pulled into a world of mind-reading, illusion, and joy. More than just a theater show, this performance will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Located on Kearny Street, The Escape Game features five one-of-a-kind, family-friendly themes, including the most difficult room, Prison Break. Each highly immersive, multi-room game can hold up to 8 players, while the Playground theme can accommodate up to 12. In this award-winning premium experience, you'll follow clues and solve puzzles together to complete your mission.
Experience the best of the city with a San Francisco and Alcatraz combo tour, including priority access to the infamous prison. Your day begins with a luxury SUV pick-up for a 4-hour guided tour of landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street. In the afternoon, you will be dropped at the ferry terminal for your self-guided audio tour of Alcatraz Island.
Discover a unique distillery experience where you can savor award-winning local whiskeys. Under the guidance of mixology pros, you will master the art of creating three iconic cocktails: the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, and Paper Plane. Learn the secrets of tasting notes and why Gold Bar, the Official Whiskey of the San Francisco 49ers, is the ideal match for each drink.
Embark on San Francisco's original haunted history walking tour, a 90-minute lantern-lit adventure led by a local performer. Your one-mile walk takes you through a safe residential area with fine Victorian architecture, featuring one moderate hill and spectacular views. You will thrill to stories of the city's ghostly past, including poltergeists at the Chambers Mansion and the ghost bride of California Street.
Go behind the scenes of North Beach’s food scene on an insider walking tour led by an expert local guide. This small-group tour, limited to 12 people, includes a four-course progressive meal with tastings at four different restaurants. You'll be seated inside to enjoy dishes like wood-fired pizza or cioppino while hearing stories about the neighborhood’s interesting history.
Get to know the city with an SF native on this intimate and flexible, nearly-private tour designed for maximum exposure in a minimal amount of time. Led by a guide with nearly a decade of experience, the tour connects you with the true flavor of the city. The route can also be customized to suit requests, and complimentary hotel pick-up can be pre-arranged.
This 2.5-hour private tour of Downtown San Francisco focuses less on walking and more on fun facts and conversation. Your guide will lead you through Chinatown, the Financial District, and the Embarcadero. Learn about the city's history, the Gold Rush, influential women, and the buried ships under the buildings, with a minimum of six people required per tour.
Enjoy a memorable private tour for friends and family in a restored vintage Volkswagen Bus. Your itinerary can be customized to suit your interests, whether you want to see city highlights or drive down Highway 1. This tour can accommodate up to seven people, allowing you to create the perfect plan for your day.
Located at Fisherman’s Wharf, The Escape Game features six highly immersive, multi-room escape adventures for up to 8 players each. In these award-winning experiences, you will follow clues and solve puzzles together to complete a mission. Choose from unique themes, including the newest game, Timeliner: Train Through Time, for a one-of-a-kind premium experience.
Take part in an interactive sailing experience on a private yacht for a maximum of six passengers. With a licensed captain and crew, you will sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and get a close-up look at Alcatraz and Angel Islands. This unforgettable experience gives you the opportunity to take the wheel and sail your own course.
See the sights at your own pace in an eco-friendly Tuk Tuk that can climb San Francisco’s tallest hills. Your experienced guide narrates the 2, 2.5, or 3-hour private tour, stopping often for photos of the bay, city skyline, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Perfect for five riders per vehicle, this excursion covers more ground than you ever could on foot.
Trade the tour bus for a private experience in a vintage Volkswagen van that navigates the city’s less-traveled lanes. This tour takes you through 14 famed districts, with stops for views of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and other storied landmarks. Your guide shares tales of earthquakes and the 1960s counterculture, with snacks, drinks, beer, and wine included.
Relax with a full-day, private tour to California’s celebrated wine regions by luxury vehicle. This customizable Napa Valley wine tour allows you to skip the hassle of driving and visit as many wineries as you please. Throughout your journey, your personal driver guide will teach you about the Napa Wine Region.
For an unforgettable city sightseeing tour, hitch a ride in a 1970's VW Hippie bus. This tour is an authentic and unique way to experience San Francisco. Your ride will be packed with interesting facts and fun about the city.
Embark on a paranormal adventure with exclusive access to the historic San Remo Hotel, one of the city's most haunted locations. After a haunted cocktail and chilling stories at Fior d’Italia, you will explore the hotel's vintage rooms using modern ghost hunting tools. Use EMF meters, a Spirit Box, and EVP recorders to search for your own paranormal evidence before a closing ritual ends the evening.
Join a passionate local foodie for an unforgettable small-group tour exploring Sausalito’s finest restaurants. Indulge in a curated selection of food and wine pairings while hearing captivating stories about the town's rich history and iconic residents. You will also stroll along the picturesque dock, taking in breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, Angel Island, and Alcatraz.
Showing 3 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Many attractions are walkable from the cruise terminal (Pier 27 or 35); otherwise, the historic F-Market streetcar, Muni buses, cable cars, and ride-sharing services are convenient options.
Must-see attractions near the port include Pier 39 with its sea lions, Fisherman's Wharf, the Alcatraz ferry landing (book tickets well in advance), Ghirardelli Square, and Coit Tower for panoramic views.
Near the port, try fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, or delicious chocolates at Ghirardelli Square. The Ferry Building Marketplace offers diverse artisanal food options.
The local currency is United States Dollar (1 USD = 1.00 USD). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, including at banks, in many stores, and often within or near the cruise terminal. Since USD is the local currency, exchange is typically not needed for most visitors.
San Francisco typically has cool, mild weather with frequent fog, especially in summer mornings and evenings; pack layers, including a windproof jacket, sweater, and comfortable walking shoes, as temperatures usually range from 50-70°F (10-21°C).
While the Pacific water is cold, Crissy Field offers a beach area with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views, accessible by public transport or taxi. Baker Beach also has iconic views but is a bit further.
Popular shore excursions include trips to Alcatraz Island, comprehensive city tours, and visits to Muir Woods or Sausalito; booking Alcatraz independently well in advance is crucial, while other tours are available through cruise lines or local operators.
Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, and Ghirardelli Square offer many souvenir shops with items like cable car replicas, Alcatraz memorabilia, and local artisan crafts. The Ferry Building Marketplace has gourmet foods and unique gifts.
Consider a scenic ferry ride to the charming bayside town of Sausalito for art galleries and stunning city views, or plan a trip to Muir Woods National Monument to see giant redwood trees (transportation often requires pre-booking).
San Francisco's famous fog has a name, Karl, and even its own social media accounts where it humorously 'tweets' about its daily movements across the city.
On average San Francisco is rather inexpensive compared to other ports. See the diagram below for the average cost per day by month. Sailings departing from San Francisco during the the peak season of summer are a bit more expensive than the low months of winter, spring, and fall.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
