TRAILHEAD INFORMATION
Highlights
Interesting sights abound for paddlers along the SF shoreline near Pier 52. The Pier 52 Boat Launch is located in the Mission Bay area of the City of San Francisco, south of AT&T Park. Pier 52 provides access to the San Francisco shoreline with a high-freeboard dock, an ADA low-float dock attachment, and two boat ramps with ample parking.
Boat Facilities
The Pier 52 Boat Launch features a high-freeboard dock connected to shore by an ADA gangway, an ADA low-float dock attachment with transfer step, and two boat ramps. Ample paid parking is located just south of the launch.
Directions
Pier 52 is located along the The Embarcadero, south of the Bay Bridge, in the South Beach neighborhood of San Francisco.
The Muni KT-Line stops at 3rd and Mission Rock Street, about a five minute walk from the launch.
Parking
There are approximately 50 public parking spaces located in a lot approximately 600 feet south of the site along Terry Francois Boulevard, including six ADA spaces and 12 spaces for vehicles with trailers.
Restrooms
There are no public restrooms at the site.
Amenities
The Pier 52 facility was completed in 2008 and replaced a single-lane ramp built in the 1950s, which did not meet modern day boating requirements. The area also contains benches and a segment of the Bay Trail, trash/recycling receptacles, and educational signs.
Accessibility
The Pier 52 Boat Launch has been designed to meet ADA standards. Facilities include an accessible gangway that leads to a low-float dock with a transfer system. The gangway has a gentle slope and handrails. The dock has transition plates and the surface is smooth.
This site provides six ADA parking spaces and a paved path of travel from the parking area located approximately 600 feet south of the boat launch.
Nearby Trails
The Bay Trail runs along the shoreline adjacent to Pier 52.
Safety Tips
Winds and currents on the Bay can be strong; paddlers need to ensure that they stay within their skill level. Small craft should be cautious and avoid the barges and other large ships that frequent the shipping lanes offshore.