Central Waterfront Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Central Waterfront
Popular places to visit
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise (90-minutes)
Top hotels in Central Waterfront
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Bathroom a little small. Wonderful complementary breakfast."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Nice hotel conveniently located near Chinatown."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Great location for a weekend in San Francisco!"
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Easy check in and out staff was helpful easy valet parking"
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
"Great for solo or budget travel"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"Great location, in the heart of Union Square. A lot shopping and restaurants around. Safe and walkable. Great pool. Helpful staff."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Central Waterfront
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Museum of Craft & Design are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
Mission Bay
While you're in Mission Bay, take in top sights like Chase Center or Lefty O'Doul Bridge, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Mission Rock Station or UCSF/Chase Center Stop.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. SOMA Pilipinas is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
South Park
Oracle Park and Brannan Street Wharf are a few top attractions in South Park. Hop around the city on the metro at 2nd & King Station or Fourth-Brannan Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to San Francisco Bay – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
