Watery Wednesday - Red and White Fleet San Francisco

This is the Harbor Princess ferry which is one of many in the Red And White Fleet which takes tourists on a cruise around San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

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Scenic Sunday - Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island aka "The Rock" San Francisco Bay



Alcatraz Island shot taken from boat docks at Hyde St. Pier - San Francisco Bay



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Alcatraz Island

Before Alcatraz began operation as a federal prison in 1934 hosting residence to the likes of Al Capone and Robert Stroud (The Birdman of Alcatraz) it was a harbor defense post and military prison back in the nineteenth century. The lighthouse went into operation in 1954 and was the first American lighthouse in operation on the West Coast. It can be seen from 18 miles out to sea. Alcatraz was closed as a federal prison in 1963 when it became the site for an Indian protest movement. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area took over maintaining and preserving the island later on and reopened it as a park in 1973. It is owned by the Federal Government and as a result is required to be maintained as is.

There have been various proposals to take down the prison and build hotels, spas and shopping complexes on the island but all of these proposals have been rejected by the government. In 1973, the year it re-opened as a park and sight seeing attraction it hosted over fifty thousand visitors. From then on it has attracted over one million tourists each year. It is home to exotic plant and flower species as well as marine wildlife and various seabirds.

There are four tours available each day. There is the early bird tour which is perfect if you want to avoid all the crowds especially during the Summer months. There is also the day tour, the night tour and the Alcatraz with Angel Island tour. If you are traveling to San Francisco and plan on a cruise to Alcatraz it is better if you buy your tickets in advance, as the tours fill up quickly. You can find out more information including ticket prices and tours on the official Alcatraz website.

Pier 39 in San Francisco

Home to world class dining, shopping and entertainment, Pier 39 is located on Beach Street along the Embarcadero in San Francisco. This post will feature important facts and information.

Information: The retail shops within the complex are open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm with extended hours of operation during Summer months. The full service restaurants are open from 11:30 am with some opening earlier for breakfast. There are also many small kiosks where you can buy coffee, hot chocolate, hot dogs, corn dogs, sodas etc…

Security: Pier 39 is patrolled around the clock, 24 hours a day. The head of security is maintained by the SFPD and the security guards are experienced professionals who are certified in First Aid, CPR, The Automated External Defibrillator and Fire and Life Safety. They are well versed in law enforcement techniques and a wide range of emergency response scenarios.

Directions & Parking: Pier 39 is a major destination and therefore accessible by all major thoroughfares and freeways. The Pier 39 garage is located directly across street from the Pier. Patrons of any of the full service restaurants receive one hour validated parking for lunch and two hours validated parking anytime after 6:00 pm. Visit the Pier 39 website for detailed directions.

Accessibility: Pier 39 is handicap friendly and accessible to all. You can also receive sign language for live performances with a two week advanced notice. Call 415-705-5500 for further detailed information.

Anniversary: Pier 39 is currently celebrating it’s 30th Anniversary with special events throughout the year.

California Welcome Center: The welcome center is located on level 2. Pier 39 has two levels. The welcome center is the official California Visitor Information Center for San Francisco and the entire Bay Area. It’s hours of operation are seven days a week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Internet access and luggage storage is also available. Phone # 415-981-1280.

Public Transportation:

In San Francisco: The following MUNI lines go to Pier 39. The F line streetcar, bus #’s 30, 47, 10, 19 and 39. For trip planning click the MUNI link. On this website you can also plan your trip around the Bay Area by using the handy trip planning tool. Also taxi’s are plentiful and always available within the city.

From the East Bay: Blue and Gold Fleet ferry services from Alameda/Oakland and Vallejo - 415-773-1188. There is also AC Transit at 510-817-1717. My personal suggestion is to take BART when traveling to and from the East Bay to San Francisco. It is the quickest and most inexpensive means of travel. However if you want the scenic route, the Blue and Gold Fleet is the way to go.

From the South Bay: Caltrain or Sam Trans. Again, by going to www.511.org you can plan your trip and find all the information you need.

From the North Bay: The Blue and Gold Fleet ferry service from Sausalito or Tiburon - 415-773-1188. Golden Gate Transit 415-455-2000.

Shopping: There are over 110 specialty shops catering to souvenirs as well as high end gift shops.

Dining: From your favorite catch of the day to Italian cuisine and casual fare there is something for everyone.

Sea Lions: The major attraction of Pier 39 and located at Pier 39’s K dock which is located on the left hand side as you enter the main plaza toward the end of the pier. Just follow the barking.

Bay Views: There are panoramic bay views throughout Pier 39. Alcatraz and San Francisco Bay are the highlights.

Fun and Activities: Pier 39 is fun for the whole family. From the Riptide arcade to the Frequent Flyer Bungee Jumping to the San Francisco Carousel kids and adults of all ages love these attractions. For you music lovers out there the entrance plaza hosts musical performances 365 days a year.