One of the most interesting sights in San Francisco is Pier 39, known for its famous sea lions. The sea lions first appeared in the area after the earthquake that hit the Bay Area in October 1989. By January 1990, there were already 500 sea lions on Pier 39. After a thorough debate, discussion, and research, experts from The Marine Mammal Center recommended that the sea lions be allowed to stay permanently. As a result, visitors now have a unique place to visit, which they might not have expected to see next to the city’s iconic cable cars and winding streets.