Guardians of the Gate Sea Lions Statue

Guardians of the Gate is a bronze sculpture at Pier 39 showing three sea lions: two adults and a pup cast together. The figures are made from Everdur bronze and capture a natural family moment.

Miles Metzger created the sculpture in 1990 and dedicated it to the waterfront area. The Smithsonian Institution recorded the work in 1992 as part of its outdoor sculpture documentation program.

The statue shows a sea lion family and represents how San Francisco connects with ocean life. Visitors see a piece of local wildlife right in the heart of the city.

The sculpture sits near Embarcadero Center and is easy for visitors to find and approach. You can sit nearby, take photos, and explore the surrounding waterfront.

The statue ranks among the most photographed sculptures in the United States. Its popularity shows how people feel drawn to this artwork.

Website: https://artandarchitecture-sf.com/guardians-of-the-gate.html

GPS coordinates: 37.80868,-122.41077

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00