San Francisco's eastern edge is truly a magical waterfront. From clear, panoramic views past the magnificent Bay Bridge to Treasure Island and even to Berkeley's Campanile, the Embarcadero offers an unparalleled scenic experience. Not only for the sights, but with the many exquisite shops and posh eateries here, the Embarcadero is a great location to spend an entire day.
Here is our travel guide to a remarkable day in the sunny seaside of the Embarcadero, full of the best waterfront places to soak in all of the captivatingly Instagrammable coastal views.
See also: Our Ultimate Tourist Route For Optimally Sightseeing All Of San Francisco
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1 Ferry Plz. Ste 46 / Website
A trip to the Embarcadero just isn't complete without a stroll through the vibrant shopping bazaar of the Ferry Building Marketplace, so why not just have breakfast here? Grande Crêperie is the newest concept by Le Marais Bakery and is brimming with numerous options for the freshest pastries and crêpes. Whether you prefer your mornings sweet or savory, definitely take a leisurely moment to enjoy the seaside with their outdoor patio accompanied by a hot cup of coffee.
If you happen to visit on a Saturday, definitely peruse the bustling farmer's market the Ferry Building hosts!
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Ferry Building Shop #37 / Website
After fueling for the day, just neighboring Grande Crêperie is the Fog City Flea Trading Post, a collective of vintage and thrift merchants. Walk into their bright studio and meet all of the local vendors offering their curated art, trinkets, and apparel.
Another fantastic commercial shopping center is the Embarcadero Center just across the street from the Ferry Building, which hosts Sephora, Banana Republic, and more.
See also: The Embarcadero Center Is A Shopping And Sightseeing Waterfront Paradise
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One Ferry Building, The Embarcadero S / Website
Having made our list for the best beer garden for Pride, Gott's remains still as a trusted Bay watering hole for draft libations and large gourmet burgers. Make this your lunch stop for a modern diner feel out on their spacious patio.
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Pier 14 / Website
Need to walk off your filling lunch? Just past the Ferry Building is the lengthy Pier 14, which stretches out a good distance into the Bay for an immense view of the Bay Bridge on one side, and the striking skyline on the other. Take an easy stroll to the end for the best photos, and don't miss the interesting details on future climate change effects on rising tides decorating the pathway.
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Ferry Building Marketplace 1 Ferry Building 53 / Website
Head back into the Ferry Building if you're feeling peckish, because these empanadas are the perfect handheld bite of comfort, flavor, and culture! Be sure to secure your place in line, because their hot and stuffed flaky pastries of either sweet or savory are always in high demand, along with their side cart of fresh espresso.
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101 California St / Website
PABU by Michael Mina is an exceptional choice for happy hour. Stop into their swanky and intimate lounge to sample their intricately complex concoctions at their Financial District cornerstone just off of the Embarcadero.
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399 The Embarcadero / Website
For dinner with an immaculate view, head to Waterbar just past the Ferry Building. Ask to sit out on their patio for the perfect sunset view of the Bay. Pair this picturesque experience with their irresistably divine oysters, Oak Roasted Swordfish or Dry Aged Tomahawk Steak.
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444 Battery St / Website
The Punchline is a notoriously hilarious venue that has been graced by the incredible acts of Zach Galifianakis, Amy Schumer, Gabriel Iglesias, Margaret Cho, and more! See who's performing when you plan to visit for an intimate and highly amusing show that is quintessentially San Francisco.
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7 The Embarcadero / Website
The best way to commemorate the end of the day at this gorgeous seaside? With a nightcap of their signature Dirty & Briny Martini or Pier 7 Margarita at The Waterfront, of course. Their fire pits will keep you warm outdoors while looking at the shimmery light show of the Bay Bridge, solidifying not only the cute whimsy that San Francisco is known for, but also the efforts and historical stories that came with building the bridge and Ferry Building.
See also: Our Ultimate Day Guide For SF's Eclectic North Beach Neighborhood
Photography by: Joshua Sortino/Unsplash
