http://www.barbarycoastnews.com/2014/06/30/tips-for-a-fab-4th-at-the-wharf/

The Barbary Coast is one of the most brilliant places to see fireworks on July 4, thanks to the annual show at Fisherman’s Wharf and all of the added entertainment.

Some Barbary Coast residents can watch fireworks from their apartments or condos, and the roof of the Gateway Apartments and Townhomes is a popular viewing spot. But if you want an up-front and more spectacular view, hoof it to the Wharf.

Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. and last about 20 minutes, but many people spend the day to enjoy an array of activities. All of the details are online at https://www.fishermanswharfsf.com/4th-of-july.

We also got “insider tips” from Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District Executive Director Troy Campbell:

• Fireworks will be shot off from barges at Aquatic Park and Pier 39. You can watch from all along the waterfront, including the promenade behind Bistro Boudin. If you drive, try the Triangle Lot on Jefferson and Powell streets. Campbell said it’s a popular spot for parking hatchbacks and trucks; drivers can back in and watch from there. Lawn chairs and coolers are OK.

• People stake out spots starting early, Campbell warns. Go early and enjoy the live bands, deejays and street entertainment. It starts around 2 p.m. at Aquatic Park, Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square.

• Picnics are OK at Aquatic Park, but alcohol is prohibited. The park gets packed especially early.

• If you take the F line, remember: When the crowds get too thick, it will turn around at Pier 39 and not go all the way into the Wharf. SFMTA will put up signs warning of no service at the stops on Jones Street and by Longshoreman’s Hall, but they often get obscured. ”This year I suspect the closure will be early because Fourth of July is on a Friday and it’s going to be more of a destination,” Campbell said.

• If you do drive, Campbell suggests arriving to the Wharf and parking before 10 a.m. Parking typically costs about $30 a day, he said, and there are 6,000 off-street garage parking spaces in the area.

• No matter where you park, even in a garage, never leave valuables in plain sight. Campbell can’t emphasize this enough.

• If you want to ooh and ahh away from the crowds, consider booking on a party boat, sport fishing boat or fleet such as Blue and Gold or Hornblower.

• Getting to the Wharf isn’t as difficult because people arrive at staggered times. Leaving is another story – everyone wants out immediately after the fireworks end. Campbell recommends sticking around and going to a bar such as Gold Dust or Buena Vista.

• If you have kids, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! will be open until midnight, as it always is on Fridays and Saturdays. “Let the crowd die out a little bit,” Campbell said. “Ultimately, you have to be a bit patient.”