Where To Stay Near Haight
- Best Vacation Rental in Haight-Ashbury: This brand new studio is great location right in the heart of the historic Haight-Ashbury district. Close to Golden Gate Park. Close to restaurants and shops.
- Best Luxury Hotel at Haight & Ashbury The Metro Hotel is charming hotel with a convenient location for public transit, a 14-min walk to Haight-Ashbury, its family-run but has no elevator.
- Check out Availability and Prices: Tripadvisor or Booking.com
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Haight & Ashbury Stanyan Park Hotel offers free breakfast, Victorian-style rooms, kitchen facilities, wine & cheese hour & tea service, near Golden Gate Park.
- Check Availability and Pricing: Tripadvisor or Booking.com
- Best Haight & Ashbury Budget Hotel The Red Victorian Historic, themed rooms, with antique electric fireplaces, and only two blocks from Golden Gate Park.
- Check out Availability & Prices: Tripadvisor
Getting There Take the Muni bus 6, 7, 37, 43 or 33 . For more information check out the San Francisco Muni website for updated costs and schedule. The San Francisco City Pass gives you unlimited travel on Muni buses, trolleys, and cable cars for three days.
A Rustic Tent Cabin In Big Basin Redwoods Park California
Situated among the towering old growth redwoods in Big Basin Redwoods Park are the quaint Tent Cabins: not quite camping, but also not quite glamping, either.
The rustic tent cabins are like going camping without needing a tent: youll have beds and a roof over your head and even a wood burning stove in the corner, so cozy but thats about it . Cook your food around a roaring campfire, gaze up at the majestic redwoods around you, make a few smores, and enjoy the tranquility. You can almost smell the pine-scented air just by flipping through .
One small warning: the raccoons at Big Basin are crafty little sneaks, and you may find 2 adorable critters running distraction while a third makes a lunge for the bag of marshmallows. Like, what does a raccoon need with marshmallows, anyway?! Theyre not even real food. Anyway, Im speaking from personal experience here: I had my bachelorette party at the Big Basin Tent Cabins! And yes, 3 raccoons made off with our smores supplies, while we were still using them. So sneaky!
Where To Stay In The Castro
budget
Becks Motor Lodge With an exterior that looks like a classic American motel, the interiors here have been tastefully renovated for a stylish, simple, yet quirky and comfortable stay in San Francisco. The big communal balcony at Becks Motor Lodge is a great place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Theres free parking for guests, but at the same time, its conveniently located for public transport and surrounded by restaurants. Mission Dolores Park is close by.
Recommended Reading: Best Places To Stay In San Sebastian Spain
The Mission: Best For Foodies And Nightlife
The Mission is one of the most vibrant and interesting neighborhoods in the city. Theres incredible street art, with two dedicated alleys devoted to colorful and socially conscious murals.
Theres also great shopping here, particularly of the eclectic, unique, and independent boutique and shop variety. Some of the best restaurants and bars in the city can be found here. You can taste flavors from around the world, but a Mission burrito is a must.
The Mission is also blessed with generally sunny and warm weather, best enjoyed at Dolores Park, next to the citys oldest building.
Sadly, there is a cost to the Mission becoming the hip and happening neighborhood that it is todayincreasing costs from the tech boom means that many primarily Latino families and businesses who historically called the Mission home can no longer afford to live here, and are being pushed out. While areas like Calle 24 have been designated the Latino Cultural District, with the goal of preserving Latino culture from gentrification and other disruptive forces, visitors should be aware of their impact.
Pros and Cons of Staying in the Mission
Pros
- Great shops, restaurants, and bars: Theres a great selection of independent and hip shops and boutiques, along with a huge abundance of great restaurants and bars.
- Weather: Its generally warmer and sunnier here than elsewhere in the city, especially at Dolores Park.
Cons
- Limited hotels: There are very few hotel options in the Mission.
The Mission Highlights
Best Places To Stay In San Francisco For Families: Union Square
Union Square is located in the heart of San Francisco and features countless restaurants, department and boutique stores, and entertainment options for the whole family. Take the family for a ride on one of the historic cable cars or easily hop on BART or Muni to explore the other neighborhoods of San Francisco. If you’re fortunate enough to be in San Francisco during the holiday season, be sure to take a twirl on the ice skating rink and visit the many department store displays.
If you’re visiting San Francisco with your family, Union Square offers plenty of options to choose from and is centrally located to many of the city’s best attractions.
You May Like: Where To Stay In Alesund
An Iconic Lighthouse In Pigeon Point California
I know what youre thinking. First you want me to pretend Im a giant bird in a nest, now you want me to sleep in a f***ing lighthouse?! Are you insane?!
First of all, maybe, because both of those sound awesome to me.
Secondly, this lighthouse is the coolest hostel ever. Thats right: this lighthouse is a hostel. And you know how we feel about hostels .
Not only is this hostel in a lighthouse, but theres a cliff-side hot tub looking out over the ocean. Yup, you heard me right. A hot tub. Looking out over the Pacific Ocean. Sunset watching? Check. Falling asleep to the lulling sound of waves and barking seals? Check. Budget-friendly? CHECK!
A bed in a dorm room costs $31, or you can upgrade to a private room for $82.
Travel Tip: Book hella early. Like, many months early. If Pigeon Point is booked, check out this OTHER lighthouse hostel in nearby Montara, California.
- What to do in Pigeon Point: Whale watch, explore the coastal tidepools and beaches, hike the redwoods in Butano State Park, watch majestic elephant seals elegantly flomp around at Año Nuevo State Reserve, sample goat cheese at Harley Farm Goat Dairy, and grab a beer at Highway 1 Brewing Company.
- Cost: $31 for a dorm room, $82 for a private. Verdict: Bring a group of buddies to share the car and, if youre lucky, a whole dorm room with.
- Distance from the Bay Area: 1 hour | Website: Book on Hostelworld
Best Places To Stay In The Financial District
luxury
Loews Regency Set in the top 11 floors of a high-rise building, you can expect amazing views of San Francisco and the Bay Area from this decidedly 5-star hotel. You can even see Golden Gate Bridge from the windows! Theres a bar, a posh brasserie, a gym, and a business center, so you dont even have to move from the hotel if you dont feel like it. However, the location on Pine Street means youll be close to a BART station, and there are tons of drinking and dining options nearby.
midrange
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Staying at this branch of the Hyatt in San Francisco means staying amongst all the fun of the Downtown district. For a start, the Ferry Building and the Farmers Market are just a few steps away. The views are incredible either of the city skyline or the bay plus theres a chic rooftop lounge for even better views as well as a spot of breakfast, too. Theres also a bar and a restaurant on site.
You May Like: Places To Stay In Williams
A Ridiculous Human Nest In Big Sur California
Human Nest it sounds like something youd find at Burning Man, right? But this is in Big Sur .
A human nest, as you might have guessed, is a human-sized nest. Its also probably the least frills that money can buy for $175.
Not only will you need to bring your own tent in case of rain but youll have to bring your own linens and a cookstove, too .
Youll be rewarded for your roughing-it efforts by sweeping views of the ocean and twinkling stars overhead as you snuggle into your little twig burrough. Fall asleep after watching the sun set from your nest. Lay in your nest listening to the waves crash far below. Wake up in your nest like um, wheres the ocean? as you soak up that Big Sur fog.
Hey, if a human nest is too weird for you, theres always the much cozier Yurt option also available at Treebones Resort .
- What to Do in Big Sur: Go hiking, eat delicious food at Big Sur Bakery, relax in the hot springs, check out the famous McWay Falls, and generally soak up the coastal beauty of Big Sur. Important note: the roads are currently closed through parts of Big Sur thanks to the winter rains. Check before you go!
- Cost: $175 for a nest, $320 for a Yurt Verdict: Bring a friend. Both to split the cost, and also because its a shame not to share such an incredible view!
- Distance from the Bay Area: 4 hours | Website: TreeBones Resort
Fishermans Wharf & North Beach Where To Stay With Family
Fishermans Wharf is one of the most iconic spots in San Francisco and its my top recommendation for people traveling with their family to the city! Ah, its also a great choice if you only have one day in the city!
For my second area recommendation I have decided to combine Fishermans Wharf with North Beach, as the two areas are not that big, theyre pretty similar and theyre right close to each other. From here youll have the best views on the beautiful San Francisco Bay!
One of the best things about these two areas is that theyre very close to the activities and attractions in the city center and they encompass some pretty exciting things to do themselves.
Fishermans Wharf used to be the #1 tourist attraction in San Francisco, but it was since dethroned by the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island.
While youre there, you can take a walk near the water, admire the sea lions at the Sea Lion Center or you can take a ferry and visit the former Alcatraz island prison! Some other cool spots in the city include the Aquarium of the Bay, Musée Mécanique, Pier 39 and the .
Ah, needless to say, if you love fresh fish and seafood , this is THE place to be if you want to indulge! If you have your heart set on these two beautiful areas, below you can find my recommended San Francisco hotels around:
Recommended Reading: Where To Stay In Burbank
Alamo Square/hayes Valley: Best For Charming Streets Victorian Buildings And Shopping
Just east of NoPa and the Haight, the Alamo Square area is known for its many charming and elegant Victorians, with the most famous ones along Postcard Row on the east side of Alamo Square Park.
Nestled between Alamo Square and Civic Center, Hayes Valley has transformed itself from a rough neighborhood to a hip one full of high fashion and design boutiques, and trendy bars and restaurants.
Grab a bite after a shopping spree, then stay for a show and a drink or three after. The streets are lovely to walk around, and home to a number of pretty Victorians.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Alamo Square/Hayes Valley
Pros
- Great shops, restaurants, and bars: Hayes Valley is packed wall-to-wall with an excellent selection of places to eat and drink. Anina and Brass Tacks are right next door to each other, and are two of the best cocktail bars in the city.
- Beautiful Victorians: Theres a large concentration of beautiful Victorian buildings, especially around Alamo Square.
Cons
- Limited transport options: There arent too many public transportation options .
- Limited hotels: There arent many hotel options in the area.
Alamo Square/Hayes Valley Highlights
The Painted Ladies: Located on the eastern side of Alamo Square, youll recognize the Painted Ladies from the TV show Full House . Stop by the snap that postcard shot, with the San Francisco skyline in the background, then grab some coffee from Lady Falcon Coffee Truck at the top of the hill in Alamo Square.
Best Area To Stay In San Francisco
While theres no right or wrong answer, theres an ideal place for each persons individual tastes and preferences. To help you figure out which one is right for you, my guide to where to stay in San Francisco will show you a range of options.
The good news is that there are a lot of great neighborhoods to base yourself in the city. From the bustling downtown to the hipster Mission and the upscale Nob Hill, San Francisco has something for everyone.
Whether you want to visit the big attractions, live like a local, immerse yourself in California culture, or explore secret spots, theres a best area to stay in San Francisco for you.
No matter if you have 1 night or 1 week, youll find a place that fits what youre looking for.
Read Also: Where To Stay In Mystic Seaport
Where To Stay In San Francisco: Best Hotels And Neighborhoods
San Francisco is famous for its eclectic vibe, cool summers, steep hills, and, in more recent years, growing tech industry. Between its large collection of diverse restaurants, bountifully amazing views, and endless number of activities, there truly is something for everyone in San Francisco.
Since it has so many neighborhoods, it can be a bit tricky for visitors to decide where they should stay. In this article, we cover our favorite parts of town to stay in, based on their proximity to places to eat and things to do, as well as the hotels themselves. Read on to start planning where to stay in San Francisco for your upcoming trip!
Pro Tip: Bookmark this post so you can circle back to it while you decide on a hotel. We update it frequently so you have the best recommendations no matter when you travel.
Our Partnership with Booking.com. If you like our content, please book by clicking on our Booking.com links. The price is the same for you, and we get a small commission that helps support our helpful blog content. Weve partnered with Booking.com because they have the most options, great prices, and a solid loyalty program.
Financial District One Of The Best Areas To Stay In San Francisco
The bustling mix of fast-paced big business, cultural and landmark venues, shops, bars and eateries make this district one of the most enlightening and enjoyable neighborhoods to visit and to stay in San Francisco.
At Pier 15 in the Financial District, you can visit the acclaimed Exploratorium with its fantastic panoramic views of both the city and the bay and to experience the wonders of the 650-plus hands-on exhibits displayed in this fascinating museum setting.
This facility is recently renovated using sustainable materials and designs and is among the most innovative areas in San Francisco.
This district is also home to the popular Hornblower Cruises & Events featuring delicious food and beverages while you enjoy spectacular Bay Area water scenes. You will be dazzled and delighted by the marvelous food, entertainment and cruise ship decor.
When you visit the Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant, you will sample the most distinctive and delicious wines imaginable, many from smaller elite vineyards and wineries. This wine merchant is focused on providing wine education and engaging wine tasting experiences.
At Hardie Place in this neighborhood, Gingers is a popular and relaxing venue for enjoying beer, wine and cocktails while you take a break from sightseeing.
Also Check: Places To Stay In Downtown Charleston Sc
Best Areas To Stay In San Francisco
I hope this guide to how to choose the best area to stay in San Francisco has helped you find a place that fits your style. Wherever you end up, Im sure youll have an amazing trip to the City by the Bay.
New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email or Bloglovin.
Some of the links in this post work on an affiliate basis. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you make a booking. The same goes for the search boxes. It doesnt affect the way you book, and its a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.
Pin it!
Castro One Of The Most Famous Lbgtq+ Neighborhoods In Usa
Located at the south end of Market Street, immediately west of the Mission District, The Castro is an area dominated by the LBGT community. With numerous cultural institutions and events, it is widely considered one of the primary LGBT hubs in the entire world.
The Castro Theater, Twin Peaks Tavern, and GLBT Historic Museum all provide glimpses into the history of the LGBT community and their growth within the district. Perhaps the most enjoyable historic attraction for most though will be the Castro Street History Walk.
A sidewalk installation featuring 30 historical fact and event plaques, you can learn about the history of The Castro between 1776 and 1960. It explains many of the most significant events that helped shape the neighborhood from its humble beginnings to the LGBT hub it is known as today.
In a similar vein, the Rainbow Honor Walk, an LGBT walk of fame, was installed in 2014. Much like the iconic walk of fame in Los Angeles, it features plaques dedicated to LGBT icons, who were considered inspirations and experts in their given fields.
You can also learn more about the LGBTQ history in San Francisco at the Human Rights Campaign Action Center which is the former house camera store of Civil rights activist Harvey Milk and the Pink Triangle Park, which remember gay men in Nazi camps in World War II.
Castro is served by Castro Station. You can easily reach Castro by the MUNI on lines L, M, and KT. there are also BART option and hop-on, hop-off city bus line.
Don’t Miss: Top Places To Stay In Vail Colorado