History & Culture

Maritime Heritage: The Story of San Francisco’s Waterfront

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park showcases the maritime history of the Pacific Coast through its people, places, and collections. Discover the stories of sailors and waterfront workers who shaped the culture of San Francisco’s bay. Explore historic buildings along the waterfront and engage with the park's extensive collection of preserved vessels, artifacts, and archives. Learn about ongoing preservation projects that protect these treasures, and explore research articles that highlight the park’s rich maritime heritage.

Through preservation and interpretation of historic ships, extensive museum collections, traditional maritime skills, and its San Francisco Bay setting, San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park brings America’s maritime legacy to life and promotes the understanding and enjoyment of the nation’s West Coast maritime heritage.

 
  • black and white photo from 1918 of fishermen eating dinner on the deck of a ship
    People

    Meet some of the sailors and other waterfront characters who lived and worked around the San Francisco Bay.

  • historical photo of the Aquatic Park Bathhouse being built, with scaffolding along the shoreline.
    Places

    Explore historic buildings and location along the waterfront

  • photo collage of ten portrait photos of crewmen surrounding a drawing of a steam engine vessel
    Collections

    Discover the fleet of historic vessels, small craft collection and the park's archives and research library

  • black and white photo from 1916 of two women and two men on rigging high over the water
    Stories

    Discover tales of struggle and daring on the high seas and along the waters and sloughs of San Francisco Bay.

  • a ranger wearing a hardhat holds line while working on a rigging project on the Balclutha.
    Preservation

    Learn about restoration and preservation projects in the park.

  • Black and white photo of steam paddle ferry Eureka on the water in 1957
    Research

    Explore articles written by rangers about the resources in the park

Last updated: December 6, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2 Marina Boulevard,
Building E, 2nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94123

Phone:

415 561-7100
The public information office is open from 8 am to 5 pm PST.

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