SF’s Fisherman’s Wharf gains momentum as revival unfolds | Here’s why some are voicing concerns

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is showing signs of a rebound as empty storefronts begin to fill, visitor traffic increases and millions of dollars are committed to a long-term revitalization plan.

“Visitation is coming back. We have a lot of exciting new things going to the wharf, and it’s a really great time for the community,” said Eric Young with the Port of San Francisco.

Recent data shows about 1 million visitors — not counting international guests — visited Fisherman’s Wharf in March, according to port officials.

The area has also drawn renewed attention from the arrival of “Chonkers,” a 2,000-pound sea lion that has become a global curiosity.

J.R. Stone: “I guess when you have things like ‘Chonkers’ the 2,000-pound sea lion, that adds to things too, because that story seems to have gone worldwide as well.”

“‘Chonkers’ is an amazing phenomenon. We’re really excited about that,” Young said.

Port officials say a new public space at the wharf is set to open this summer.

While long-term plans for the former Fisherman’s Grotto site remain undecided, officials said they are working on a short-term lease with a possible tenant.

New businesses are also expected to open soon, including Everett and Jones BBQ and Raising Canes.

Despite the optimism, concerns remain among local fishermen about the future of working infrastructure at the wharf. Those issues came to the forefront during a community meeting held Thursday night to discuss the area’s redevelopment.

“If we’re going to redo the infrastructure of the Fisherman’s Wharf, I do believe we need to redo the structure of the fishermen themselves,” said one attendee.

“We need help, lots of it,” said another fisherman.

“I think there’s an opportunity here especially with the plate of Pier 45 to make a real fishing facility. I think that would attract more boats and more fisherman,” another fisherman said.

The meeting focused on redevelopment of the public space where Alioto’s once operated and a longer-term, multi-million-dollar plan to renovate the seawall and wharf structures. Fishermen used the forum to raise questions about essential services.

“Are we going to get a functioning fuel dock again? Are we going to get an ice plant?” asked a fisherman.

Port representatives said they are working to repair both the fuel dock and the ice machine by spring 2027.

Thursday’s meeting was the first of at least three planned as officials and community members continue discussions aimed at shaping the future of Fisherman’s Wharf.