Anyone for clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf?

What's a trip to San Francisco without a tummy full of clam chowder? So, while all reports told me the most tasty (and least overpriced!) chowder was found away from the touristy waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf, I ignored and made haste to the boardwalk.

I know it's a gimmick, but the creamy chowder in a bowl of sourdough from a tacky waterfront cafe was pretty alluring. Plus, for a lone traveller, there was plenty to keep me entertained down at the wharf. Live music is in overdrive, with buskers setting up full drum kits & amps in the middle of the street. I have to say, it gives a pretty great vibe. The last photo here is one of my favourite captures. Some guy in an Elmo suit taking a break in the carpark. Geez, he looks happy!

I didn't get a chance to make it over to Alcatraz (am nowhere near organised enough for that!), but I did get a peak of the infamous prison from here. Apparently even if you wanted to escape, you'd die because the water is so cold. Doesn't surprise me. There are sea lions hanging around. If you look closely, you can see them lying in front of that restaurant in one of the pics down below. Water looked wicked cold.