MSC Poesia
39% offsuite
U.S.U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
San Francisco Cruise Port
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a vibrant city located in Northern California.
Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#32
of 37 ports in the U.S.
Today · high / low
94° / 42°
October normals
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
San Francisco, California
// San Francisco cruise port overview
The cruise port in San Francisco,
explained
Lat: 37.8°NLong: 122.4°WTimezone: America/Los_AngelesINTN code: SFO
San Francisco is a vibrant city located in Northern California. It is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and steep rolling hills.
The city is home to a diverse population, with a large Chinese and LGBT community. It is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions such as Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Exploratorium.
The city is also known for its unique neighborhoods, such as the Mission District, Chinatown, and Haight-Ashbury. San Francisco is a great place to explore, with its many museums, galleries, and parks.
The city is also home to some of the best restaurants in the world, offering a variety of cuisines. San Francisco is a great place to live, work, and play, with its unique culture and beautiful scenery.
Ships visiting
10 lines
19 ships call at San Francisco
Peak passenger day
6,830
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$5
per person · 185 tours
Most ships dock at
7:00 AM
arrival for 51% of calls
Average port time
8h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in San Francisco start at $5.
Browse San Francisco excursions// San Francisco Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to San Francisco
175 cruises stop here in San Francisco during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each San Francisco cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Norwegian Encore
29% offsuite
Star Princess
26% offoceanview
Royal Princess
25% offsuite
Norwegian Encore
23% offinside
Ruby Princess
20% offoceanview
Norwegian Bliss
17% offsuite
Ruby Princess
16% offinside
// San Francisco Cruise Port location
Where is San Francisco Cruise Port?
The San Francisco, California cruise port is located on the northern edge of the San Francisco Bay, just south of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is easily accessible from the city's downtown area, as well as from the nearby cities of Oakland and Berkeley. The port is served by several major highways, including Interstate 80, US 101, and California State Route 1. It is also served by public transportation, including the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) and the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system.
- General location
- U.S.
- Category
- U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
- Coordinates
- 37.81°N, 122.40°W
- Time zone
- America/Los_Angeles
Cruise port · 37.81°N, 122.40°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// San Francisco cruise port guide
What to do in San Francisco
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 8 hours in San Francisco. Most ships dock around 7:00 AM.
Median across 90 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Exploring the City
Exploring the city of San Francisco is a great way to get to know the area. Cruise passengers can take a tour of the city, visit iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, and explore the unique neighborhoods of the city. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and other attractions to explore in the city.
Theme 2
Outdoor Activities
San Francisco is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Cruise passengers can take a stroll along the waterfront, explore the many parks and gardens in the city, or take a bike ride along the Golden Gate Bridge. There are also plenty of beaches and trails to explore, offering stunning views of the city and the bay.
Theme 3
Shopping and Dining
San Francisco is a great place to shop and dine. Cruise passengers can explore the many shops and restaurants in the city, from the iconic Fisherman's Wharf to the trendy Union Square. There are also plenty of markets and food trucks to explore, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
San Francisco cruise port beaches
3 in our guideB
Baker Beach
Baker Beach is a 1.5-mile stretch of beach located on the northern side of San Francisco. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, and other birds. The beach is also a great spot for a romantic stroll along the shore or a hike up to the nearby Battery Chamberlin for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
C
China Beach
China Beach is a 1-mile stretch of beach located on the northern side of San Francisco. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, and other birds. The beach is also a great spot for a romantic stroll along the shore or a hike up to the nearby Lands End for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
O
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is a 3.5-mile stretch of beach located on the western side of San Francisco. It is the largest beach in the city and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, and other birds. The beach is also a great spot for a picnic or a stroll along the shore.
// San Francisco fun facts
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is a small island located in the San Francisco Bay, approximately 1.25 miles offshore from San Francisco. It is best known as the site of the notorious federal prison that operated from 1934 to 1963. Today, the island is a popular tourist destination, offering a close-up look at the prison and its history. Visitors can also explore the island's natural beauty, including its gardens, tide pools, and bird colonies.
The Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the one-mile-wide strait connecting San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco, California, and the United States. The bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the world and has been declared one of the Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
The Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of colorful Victorian and Edwardian houses located in the Alamo Square neighborhood of San Francisco. The houses are often featured in postcards and photographs of the city, and are considered one of the most photographed sites in the city. The houses are painted in a variety of bright colors, and are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
San Francisco cruise port shopping
3 in our guideF
Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is a popular tourist destination in San Francisco, located near the cruise port. It is home to a variety of souvenir shops, including the San Francisco Souvenir Company, which offers a wide selection of t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and other memorabilia. There are also several specialty stores, such as the Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop, which offers a variety of chocolates and other treats. Additionally, there are several art galleries and antique stores, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
P
Pier 39
Pier 39 is another popular tourist destination in San Francisco, located near the cruise port. It is home to a variety of souvenir shops, including the San Francisco Bay Trading Company, which offers a wide selection of t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and other memorabilia. There are also several specialty stores, such as the Aquarium of the Bay, which offers a variety of marine life-related items. Additionally, there are several art galleries and antique stores, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
U
Union Square
Union Square is a popular shopping district in San Francisco, located near the cruise port. It is home to a variety of souvenir shops, including the San Francisco Souvenir Company, which offers a wide selection of t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and other memorabilia. There are also several specialty stores, such as the Apple Store, which offers a variety of electronics and accessories. Additionally, there are several art galleries and antique stores, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
// San Francisco Cruise Port Terminals
Which San Francisco cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in San Francisco
Pier 1 of 3
Pier 27
The Embarcadero & Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94133
Pier 2 of 3
Pier 35
The Embarcadero & Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133
Pier 3 of 3
Pier 41
The Embarcadero & Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94133
Wi-Fi
The San Francisco cruise port does not offer free public wifi access. However, there are several nearby businesses that offer free wifi access, including Starbucks, McDonald's, and the San Francisco Public Library.
Safety
San Francisco is generally considered a safe city for travelers. The cruise port is located in a secure area with a high level of security. The port is monitored by the San Francisco Police Department and the US Coast Guard. Additionally, the port has its own security staff who patrol the area and monitor the security cameras.
Port address
Pier 35, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
San Francisco cruise port car rental
HertzEnterpriseAvisBudgetAlamo
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// San Francisco, California cruise port excursions
Most Popular San Francisco Cruise Port Tours
185 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in San Francisco, California, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best San Francisco shore tours
Curated from 185 · not a search result
4.9(2,472)$82
Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour
2hArchitecture Tours
View Details for Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour (opens in a new tab)
4.6(633)$99
Muir Woods and Sausalito Morning Tour Small-Group Half Day
4.4(417)$39
San Francisco Bay Cruise
Worry-free4.6(346)$79
San Francisco Afternoon City Tour Small-Group Half-Day
Worry-free4.9(286)$196
San Francisco Small Group City Highlights and Alcatraz Tour
5.0(234)$535
Best Alcatraz Prison Tickets & San Francisco Combo Tour
Worry-free4.4(212)$99
Muir Woods and Sausalito Afternoon Tour Small-Group Half-Day
4.6(198)$650
8hr Private Sonoma and Napa Wine Tour from San Francisco.XL SUV
// Weather
San Francisco Cruise Port Weather
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest·30-year historical averages
Oct averages · San Francisco
61°
Avg · °F
Hot, mostly dry
- High
- 94°F
- Low
- 42°F
- Rain
- 1.2 in
// Year-round in San Francisco
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// San Francisco cruise ship schedule
San Francisco Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in San Francisco today, Sunday, October 4, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
Planning around the crowds?
- San Francisco cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Keep exploring
Popular ports in the U.S.
Other ports cruisers visit most in the U.S..
// Questions
San Francisco cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in San Francisco.
Where is San Francisco cruise port located?
San Francisco, California cruise port is located in U.S.. The San Francisco, California cruise port is located on the northern edge of the San Francisco Bay, just south of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is easily accessible from the city's downtown area, as well as from the nearby cities of Oakland and Berkeley. The port is served by several major highways, including Interstate 80, US 101, and California State Route 1. It is also served by public transportation, including the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) and the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system.
Is San Francisco a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, San Francisco, California is a great cruise port. It is a popular port of call for many cruise lines, offering a variety of itineraries that explore the city's iconic sights, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman's Wharf. The city also offers a variety of activities and attractions, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
How safe is San Francisco cruise port for passengers?
San Francisco cruise port has a safety score of 6.6 out of 10, ranking #32 of 37 ports in U.S.. San Francisco is generally considered a safe city for travelers. The cruise port is located in a secure area with a high level of security. The port is monitored by the San Francisco Police Department and the US Coast Guard. Additionally, the port has its own security staff who patrol the area and monitor the security cameras.
What is the weather like at San Francisco cruise port in October?
In October, San Francisco cruise port has average high temperatures of 94°F (34°C) and average lows of 42°F (6°C).
How many excursions are available at San Francisco cruise port?
There are currently 185 excursions and tours available at San Francisco cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at San Francisco cruise port?
San Francisco cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Exploring the City, Outdoor Activities, Shopping and Dining. San Francisco, California is known for its diverse range of activities and attractions. From its iconic Golden Gate Bridge to its vibrant neighborhoods, there is something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and cultural attractions, or take a stroll along the waterfront. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as biking, hiking, and kayaking. San Francisco is also home to some of the best restaurants and nightlife in the country, making it a great destination for foodies. With its unique culture, stunning views, and endless activities, San Francisco is a must-visit destination.
Can I rent a car at San Francisco cruise port?
1. Hertz: Hertz offers car rental services near the San Francisco cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.2. Enterprise: Enterprise offers car rental services near the San Francisco cruise port. They have a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.3. Avis: Avis offers car rental services near the San Francisco cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.4. Budget: Budget offers car rental services near the San Francisco cruise port. They have a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.5. Alamo: Alamo offers car rental services near the San Francisco cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.
What is the WiFi situation at San Francisco cruise port?
The San Francisco cruise port does not offer free public wifi access. However, there are several nearby businesses that offer free wifi access, including Starbucks, McDonald's, and the San Francisco Public Library.
Where is the cruise terminal at San Francisco cruise port?
The address of the San Francisco, California cruise port is Pier 35, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133.
What is the San Francisco Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at San Francisco today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check San Francisco on any past or future date.