What is the difference between a pier and a wharf?

Answer 1

A wharf usually runs along side the shoreline while a pier runs perpendicular to the shoreline or stretches out into the water. (However, in the south we use the terms interchangeably.)

Answer 2

They mean the same thing, according to several different dictionaries:
Wordnet -
wharf
n : a platform built out from the shore into the water and
supported by piles; provides access to ships and boats
[syn: PIER, wharfage, dock]

Websters'-
Wharf, n
1. A structure or platform of timber, masonry, iron, earth,
or other material, built on the shore of a harbor, river,
canal, or the like, and usually extending from the shore
to deep water, so that vessels may lie close alongside to
receive and discharge cargo, passengers, etc.; a quay; A
PIER

American Heritage Dictionary Thesaurus:
pier - a platform built out from the shore into the water and supported by piles; provides access to ships and boats -
WHARF, wharfage, dock

Answer 3

A pier is a raised walkway over water.

A wharf is a fixed platform, commonly on pilings, roughly parallel to and alongside navigable water, where ships are loaded and unloaded.

Answer 4

pier: built on posts and over the water
wharf: built on land along the shore.