Around Pier 39 hundreds of sea lions have decided to hang out and entertain visitors.  I'm assuming the property owners have placed all the floating docks out there and the sea lions love it.  They pile on these things and occasionally fight over who gets control over each platform.

Both areas, Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 are very touristy areas.  The shops and restaurants are pretty generic although good for a few hours of browsing.  From this area is also where you leave for tours of Alcatraz.