Pier 39, often infamous for being a popular tourist destination, is also a favorite spot of some blubbery, playful sea lions. The Pier 39 sea lions are somewhat of an unofficial mascot in San Francisco. Loved by tourists and locals alike, it’s not unusual to see a herd of sea lions sunbathing next to Fisherman’s Wharf.
This year, Pier 39 has seen an unusually large herd, with over 1,000 sea lions counted in early May. The herd was the largest the pier has seen in almost 15 years, according to officials.
But it seems there are even more sea lions than early May’s count. Now, the last week of May, the heard count has increased to an impressive 2,000 sea lions according to Pier 39. This surpasses the old record high of 1,701 in 2009.
The sea lions claimed the K-dock at Pier 39 as their home after the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. Unlike nearby rocky beaches, the docks provide a comfortable place protected from storms for the herd to lay. While they were initially unwelcomed by the mariners, at the recommendation of the Marine Mammal Center, the sea lions were allowed to stay on the docks.
Due to sea lions’ large size and heavy weight, the K-docks eventually submerged and became waterlogged. The waterlogged part of the docks was removed and replaced by the floating pads you see today. Now, over 30 years later, the sea lions are still “hauling out” on the Pier 39 docks, much to the delight of visitors.
The bay provided plenty of food for the sea lions and protection from predators, fostering a thriving herd. It’s typical for the size of the herd to rise and fall with the seasons and available food supply.
The sea lions have captured many San Franciscans’ hearts. Known for being playful and intelligent, you’ll hear their signature barking near the SF waterfront. The massive animals can reach over 800 pounds and live up to 25 years.
You can spot the sea lion herd at Pier 39 or check out a sea lion live stream to watch them from home. Feeding, handling, or harassing the sea lions is illegal, but you can take plenty of pictures if you visit the herd at Pier 39.