Photos of Pier 39 Sea Lion Viewing Area
About Pier 39 Sea Lion Viewing Area
The Sea Lion Viewing Area at Pier 39 is an amazing gem along the San Francisco waterfront that lets you watch and photograph some of the city's most unique residents. Since their unexpected arrival in the late 1980s, this community of sea lions has become a beloved part of Fisherman's Wharf. The viewing area offers a close up look at these playful creatures as they sunbathe, play, and often bicker, on the floating docks they have claimed as their home. The backdrop of the bustling waterfront with its historic ships and amazing views (you can even see Alcatraz Island on a clear day) adds a unique contrast of city life and nature living side by side. Ideally aim to be here in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The sun sitting lower on the horizon helps to create the perfect conditions for capturing the sea lions' rich textures and expressions against the sparkling waters of the San Francisco Bay. Early mornings will also give you much more space and time to experiment with your compositions since the pier gets crowded by late morning. Most of the sea lions head south to breed in June and July, so the docks can look pretty empty in summer. (San Francisco, California, USA).
Where to find Pier 39 Sea Lion Viewing Area
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