Since it's such a bustling metropolis, it's sometimes easy to forget that
San Francisco is still a coastal city. As famous as it is as part of the Bay Area, San Francisco has long gained its fame for its bustling streets, hilly terrain, and diverse population. This is why Embarcadero tends to stand out as one of the city's most prominent neighborhoods. This eastern waterfront, which doubles as another business hub, embraces everything that makes San Francisco the beloved city it is. It has amazing commerce, cool hotspots, and beautiful coastal views. It's no wonder many people love it here!
Where is Embarcadero in San Francisco?
Embarcadero serves as San Francisco's main eastern waterfront, making it the threshold between the city and the bay. Though it lies along the eastern edge of the city, it's still one of
San Francisco's central neighborhoods, especially since it's near many of the most prominent areas. No less than Chinatown, North Beach, Nob Hill, and even Union Square are located right beside Embarcadero, most of which are considered part of the city center. It's also this proximity that helps make public access easier to navigate in Embarcadero and the nearby districts.
Is it Safe in Embarcadero, San Francisco?
Fortunately, Embarcadero is still a generally safe neighborhood.
San Francisco's high crime rates be damned, this district maintains fairly low to mid crime rates and a vibrant energy that welcomes locals and tourists alike. It helps that the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), San Francisco Public Works, and the San Francisco Port continuously work together on the Central Embarcadero Safety Project, which promotes safety and security in the area. This and the fact that the area has always been a well-lit part of town that doubles as a popular tourist attraction, it's no surprise Embarcadero remains one of the safer parts of town.
What's The Vibe in Embarcadero, San Francisco?
Hustle and bustle are the names of the game at Embarcadero in San Francisco. Even as early as the California Gold Rush of 1849, the area has long served as a vital hub of commerce for the city. And though many other parts of San Francisco have since taken over as major business districts, Embarcadero remains a busy spot where local businesses thrive and tourist attractions help keep its fascinating history alive. Naturally, Embarcadero still operates as an important port for San Francisco, though it mostly serves leisure ferries and cruises instead of industrial ships.
Is it Expensive in Embarcadero, San Francisco?
It's more accurate to say that Embarcadero is a pricey part of San Francisco, but not necessarily that expensive. Much like
San Francisco's living costs, the neighborhood certainly has expensive areas that feature high-end brands, upscale restaurants, and the like, but they don't define the entire district. Even the average rent here is about $3,400.00 per month, which is undoubtedly expensive in the grand scheme of things, but is also equal to the city-wide average of all of San Francisco. And if you want to eat out in Embarcadero, casual meals will typically range from about $15.00 to $30.00 per person.
What to See in Embarcadero, San Francisco
Embarcadero's iconic Ferry Building practically symbolizes the neighborhood altogether. Standing out with its iconic clock tower, the historic building has long served as the eastern waterfront's centerpiece. It's up to the point that no visit to Embarcadero is complete without seeing it, be it in the area itself or simply from a distance! There's also Pier 39, arguably the most famous pier in Embarcadero, where 'San Francisco meets the Bay to Play!' True to this fun slogan, Pier 39 serves as the ultimate entertainment center in the district, boasting fabulous shops, popular restaurants, and even some fun rides for the whole family.
What to Do in Embarcadero, San Francisco
If you ever visit or
move to San Francisco and expect fun, consider hanging out at Embarcadero. More than just its magnificent bay views, the eastern waterfront has grown to be the ultimate family-friendly attraction. As mentioned previously, Pier 39 stands out here with its bustling shopping center. Here, you can shop, eat, play games, and even go on a few rides with friends and family. If you fancy some educational fun too, especially for your little ones, bring them to The Exploratorium on Pier 15. It's a fabulous museum that combines science, art, and play, all mixed to offer an immersive and educational experience you won't soon forget!
The Best Restaurants in Embarcadero, San Francisco
Embarcadero is well on its way to becoming one of San Francisco's major foodie spots. And that's saying something considering that the city has long been in contention as America's food capital, rivaling the likes of New York City. So, for this neighborhood to significantly contribute to that level of prestige must mean that its culinary scene truly is something else. In terms of delicacies, the neighborhood already champions seafood! Go to popular eateries like Waterbar Restaurant, Hog Island Oyster Co., and La Mar Cocina Peruana San Francisco to get the very best of it in the city.
Don’t miss any or all of Embarcadero’s best places to eat listed below:
- Angler in The Embarcadero
- Delancey Street Restaurant in The Embarcadero
- EPIC Steak in The Embarcadero
- Waterbar Restaurant in The Embarcadero
- Harborview Restaurant & Bar in Embarcadero Center
- Mozzarella di Bufala on West Portal Avenue
- La Mar Cocina Peruana San Francisco in Ferry Plaza
- Hog Island Oyster Co. in Ferry Building
- Coqueta in Pier 5
- Boulevard on Mission Street
What to Know About Renting in Embarcadero, San Francisco
Firstly, it's worth mentioning that there aren't many apartment buildings and other residential establishments in Embarcadero itself. Instead, most of the residents live in the nearby districts, which are located so close to the waterfront that they're practically part of the neighborhood already. As for how much they cost, the average rent in these parts is typically $3,400.00 per month, similar to the city-wide average. Hence, if you intend to
rent a luxury apartment in San Francisco, specifically near this part of town, expect to pay substantially more than the rest of the country.
From beautiful coastal views to a bustling business hub, Embarcadero has everything you'll ever want and need in a neighborhood in San Francisco. It's no surprise that more and more people want to settle down here.
