When visiting San Francisco, Pier 39 on the waterfront is an exciting attraction with famous restaurants overlooking an even more famous island, Alcatraz. From the pier you can also buy tickets and climb on board nearly a dozen boat ride options for seeing and experiencing the San Francisco Bay first hand. From the daily trips to "The Rock", tours around the bay and under the Golden Gate bridge, visits to Angel Island, Hornblower dinner cruises soaking it all in with a meal on a luxury yacht, or affordable tours on a variety of fleets such as Blue & Gold or Red & White, the water rides are quite entertaining.

Instead of visiting The Rock, an exciting option lets you get rocked in the Rocketboat departing from Pier 39. Operating May through October, the ride offers thrills made possible thanks to the highly maneuverable speedboat's quick, tight turns. Bumping and jarring can occur so passengers are required to wear seat belts and they should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, osteoporosis, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. It's not for the weak at heart, nor is it for little kids. If you are looking for a joy ride and some excitement in an otherwise ordinary visit to San Francisco, get ready! (rocketboatsf.com)

Pier 39 is home to annual events such as Tulipmania, 4th of July Fireworks, New Year's Fireworks, Christmas Tree Lighting and Fisherman's Wharf Lighted Boat Parade. There's always something going on at the waterfront! Location: 2 Beach Street, San Francisco (pier39.com)