SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST TOURS
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RESERVATIONS & VIEWS
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BEST OF SAN FRANCISCO REVIEW - PIER 39:

PIER 39 is a favorite destination for visitor's from all over the world. Don't confuse Pier 39 with Fisherman's Wharf, it isn't, although it is in walking distance from the actual Wharf. Located right on the Embarcadero (F TROLLY LINE from the downtown, Market Street) Pier 39 is more like a boardwalk than a pier. There are more or less 100 shops and 13 restaurants, a sailboat harbor, live music, street performers and a wonderful carousel. But the favorite attraction, that costs no money at all, are the Sea Lions, who came to the pier in the early days of its inception, and have maintained their hold on the harbor at the left side of the boardwalk. You can stand right over them and take some wonderful up close and personal pictures. Their cries and barking set the tempo day and night.

At the back of Pier 39 there is a stunning view of Alcatraz, the bay, passing ships and sailboats. This is a perfect spot for taking bay shots.

The restaurants are typically focused on tourist trade. For hearty family fare, (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with an authentic sailing atmosphere, we recommend the Eagle Cafe, a San Francisco tradition since 1928, although the prices are definitely touristic 2005. They also provide a traditional long bar serving quality tap beer and full alcohol selections. Located at the top (second level) front of the Pier.

For upscale evening dining (5pm - 10pm) that is the most fun, we recommend Forbes Island. Located right next to the Sea Lions, it is designed like a lighthouse on a palm tree island. You take their private 27 passemger water jitney, the "Island Queen", from the front/left of Pier 39, (Pier 39 West Marina, H-Dock), put-putting around the Sea Lions, out to what is billed as "the world's only manmade island". We're willing to bet that somewhere on the planet there is a person working on their own version of this idea, but oh well, that's promotion. Still an unusual and worthwhile experience. The dining room is 'below-decks'. There is an outside patio as well, where you have views of Alcatraz, Coit Tower and the Golden Gate Bridge. Reservations required. Click on their DOMAIN for more info.