Your Guide to Fleet Week Photo Ops

Fleet Week is upon us! Held between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf is the perfect place to view this waterfront event. The annual event attracts visitors from all over the globe, so it’s time to plan out where your crew is watching the show. Not only will you have the perfect weekend, but these spots are sure to give you that Instagram worthy shot that will make the Fleet Week memories last a lifetime. 

 

View from Scoma's patio

1.    Scoma’s

Beloved by both visitors and locals, Scoma’s is famous for their fresh seafood and Bloody Marys. Located at the end of Pier 47, you can view the Fleet Week Air Shows right on the water.

2.    San Francisco Whale Tours

This tour will have you constantly looking down at the water and back up to the Fleet Week Air Show! San Francisco Whale Tours is hosting tours on Saturday and Sunday in celebration of Fleet Week, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, the Bay Bridge, and of course — the Blue Angels Air Show.

3.    Aquatic Park

Located at the end of the Hyde Street Cable Car turnaround, Aquatic Park is the perfect spot to relax and watch the show. Whether you grab a picnic blanket and relax on the grass or join the crowd on the stairs by the Maritime Museum, you’ll have a full view of every show.

 

View from the second floor of Pier 39.

4.    Pier 39

The second level of Pier 39 is the perfect spot to view the shows, especially if you’re hoping to grab a bite to eat. We recommend a seat by the water at Fog Harbor Fish House, The Crab House, Eagle Cafe, or Lorenzo’s! Make sure to get there early or book your reservation so you can get the best seat in the house.
Don’t miss the views from the Pier 39 bridge either! The bridge from the parking garage on Stockton and Beach to Pier 39 has beautiful views of the water and the cityscape.

5. Barrio 

You can't go wrong with some tacos and a perfect view of the Fleet Week Air Show. With a wraparound window and an outdoor patio, the views from Barrio will leave you speechless. Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, make sure to get there early and put your name on the list for a table while you explore all the shops at Ghirardelli Square. 

6.    Red & White Fleet

Want a completely unique experience from the rest of the crowds? View the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels and others from the water during Red & White Fleet’s Air Show Cruise during Friday, Saturday, and Sunday’s 2:00pm departures. 

 

View from McCormick & Kuletos.

7.    McCormick & Kuletos 

McCormick & Kuletos is located on the second level of Ghirardelli Square and has one of the best views of the water you can find. Featuring a wall of windows, it’s difficult to find a table without a great view of Fleet Week.

8.    Blue & Gold Fleet

Another great spot to view the show is aboard one of Blue & Gold’s Fleet Week Air Show Cruise. Happening at 1:30pm on Saturday and Sunday, you can enjoy the cruise, the views, and an on-board lunch from the Hard Rock Cafe.

 

View from the new Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience.

9.    Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience

If you needed another excuse to grab an ice cream sundae from the new Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience, you can browse the vast collection of Ghirardelli chocolates and see the Blue Angels fly over the city. Build your custom assortment bag, grab a chocolate sundae, and experience San Francisco Fleet Week!