25 Hotels with the Best Views in San Francisco

Known for its captivating blend of history, innovation, and cultural diversity, San Francisco is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. And for those in search of the best of the Bay, I’ve curated the top hotels with the best views in San Francisco, from panoramas of the city’s iconic landmarks to sweeping vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge. Encompassing everything from landmark hotels on Nob Hill to charming boutique properties along the waterfront, each of these hotels offers unique ways to take in the charm of the Golden City.

My personal favorites are The St Regis San Francisco for its floor-to-ceiling widows and The Four Seasons Hotel at Embarcadero for its views of the city skyline and Bay.

25 Hotels with the Best Views of San Francisco

Whether you’re in search of a San Francisco hotel with Golden Gate Bridge views, or a hotel with views of San Francisco’s skyline, here are my top picks for your visit to the Bay.

ACCOMMODATION COMPARISON TABLE

You’ll find the 25 Hotels with the Best Views of San Francisco below, with a table showing current rates. These hotels are listed by price for a standard room rate, which may or may not include a city view! Make sure to book accordingly to make the most of your stay.

25 HOTELS WITH THE BEST VIEWS OF SAN FRANCISCO

Whether you crave a skyline panorama, a glimpse of the Bay Bridge, or a view from Nob Hill, here are the most enchanting hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

The Fairmont Ghirardelli Square

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s iconic Ghirardelli Square, The Fairmont Ghirardelli Square is a luxurious urban retreat with great views of the water. Each residence at The Fairmont Heritage Place is thoughtfully designed, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations with well-appointed furnishings, gourmet kitchens, and panoramic bay views (including Alcatraz). The exposed brick design offers natural soundproofing from the square below, with each self-contained unit featuring a washer and dryer unit, as well as butler service.

In addition to the lively atmosphere, The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. You can enjoy room service directly from nearby establishments, explore the historic waterfront, or enjoy chocolate tastings right outside the hotel. I’ve had the chance to stay at The Fairmont Ghirardelli and can confirm that it is the epitome of sophistication, and offers beautiful views of San Francisco’s waterfront.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The Fairmont Ghirardelli Square

The St Regis San Francisco

Set in the SoMa district of San Francisco, The St Regis is an exquisite luxury hotel that provides an exceptional blend of sophistication and breathtaking cityscape views. This opulent establishment offers elegantly designed rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. The views on offer include iconic buildings like the Transamerica Pyramid and the financial district. Meanwhile, each room is meticulously furnished, providing a comfortable and stylish retreat for guests. The hotel itself is set in the landmark Williams building, alongside the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) and across the street from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA).

Beyond its exceptional location and stunning views, The St Regis offers a wealth of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at the Astra restaurant, enjoy signature cocktails at The St Regis Bar, and experience impeccable service throughout their visit. The hotel also features a fitness center, spa services, and event facilities. The St Regis San Francisco offers impeccable service and a top-tier location, and it’s an ideal choice for those seeking hotels with the best views in San Francisco

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The St Regis San Francisco

InterContinental San Francisco

Located in the vibrant heart of San Francisco’s SoMa district, The InterContinental is a sophisticated urban haven boasting some of the most captivating views of the city. With elegantly appointed rooms and suites, guests can enjoy a luxurious stay featuring modern comforts. Expansive windows frame the iconic skyline, including landmarks like the Salesforce Tower and the Bay Bridge. Each room offers a floor-to-ceiling widow, but I’d recommend a Premier View room, located on floors 25-30 to make the most of your stay.

On top of its prime location and stunning panoramas, the InterContinental San Francisco offers a variety of amenities to elevate your stay. Guests can savor culinary delights at the award-winning Luce restaurant, unwind with crafted cocktails at the 888 Bar, and experience exceptional service throughout. The hotel also features a fitness center with a lap pool, a spa, and versatile event spaces, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. For those seeking the perfect blend of luxury and captivating city views, The InterContinental stands out as an exceptional choice among San Francisco hotels with city views.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The InterContinental San Francisco

Beacon Grand

Set on Powell Street, the Beacon Grand is a timeless offering in San Francisco’s Union Square district. This storied hotel boasts palatial halls, seamlessly blending historical design and modern elegance. The suites enjoy sophisticated furnishings and a great deal of character, with higher rooms enjoying views of the bustling streets of Union Square.

Beyond its distinguished ambiance, the Beacon Grand presents an array of amenities to enhance your visit. Savor culinary delights at the on-site restaurant, unwind with craft cocktails at the bar, and explore the hotel’s historic architecture. Meanwhile, the central location provides convenient access to nearby attractions, including world-class shopping, theaters, and world-famous San Francisco streetcars just outside the lobby. For those who appreciate historic charm, the Beacon Grand is a premier choice among hotels in San Francisco with the best views.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Beacon Grand

1 Hotel San Francisco

1 Hotel San Francisco is an urban oasis located just across the street from the San Francisco Ferry building. Each room is thoughtfully decorated in calming earth tones made from reclaimed lumber. Vast windows let in ample sunlight and views of the bay, garden, or city. All rooms feature rain showers, yoga mats, sustainable bedding, and in-room greenery.

The sustainable hotel also offers a wide array of amenities to elevate your stay. Delight in farm-to-table cuisine at Terrene restaurant, visit the farmstand for a local harvest, or destress at the Bamford Wellness Center. The hotel also boasts a fitness center, electric bikes, and an electric Audi service. For those who value sustainable luxury and thoughtful design, 1 Hotel is a premiere choice for a San Francisco hotel with Bay Bridge views.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for 1 Hotel San Francisco

The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

Set atop Nob Hill, The Ritz-Carlton offers an extraordinary experience among San Francisco hotels. This timeless hotel features an array of well-appointed rooms and suites, each designed with a blend of classic opulence and modern comforts. From its elevated vantage point, the Ritz enjoys views of landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower gracing the scene. For guests in search of the best views, the hotel’s Club Level rooms and suites offer elevated perspectives and exclusive access to the Club Lounge, where additional panoramic vistas await.

Guests can enjoy dining at Parallel 37 restaurant for farm-to-table cuisine, with cocktails at the JCB Tasting Lounge. The hotel’s central location also provides convenient access to nearby attractions, including the historic Cable Car lines and the cultural treasures of Chinatown. I’ve stayed at the Ritz for a business trip myself and loved the convenient setting. For those who appreciate luxury, exceptional dining, and unmatched city views, The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco is a sensational choice among hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

San Francisco Marriott Union Square

The San Francisco Marriott Union Square is a classic San Francisco Hotel with city views. This contemporary hub boasts an array of well-appointed rooms and suites, each designed to provide guests with a comfortable stay in the heart of Union Square. Lower rooms and the lobby have a nice vantage point over the historic cable car lines, while higher suites and events rooms provide panoramas of the city and waterfront. The hotel’s Premium View rooms and suites in particular offer elevated perspectives and exclusive amenities, ensuring a memorable stay.

Dining at the San Francisco Marriott Union Square is a culinary adventure, with Bin 480 offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing cocktails. The hotel’s central location also provides convenient access to nearby attractions, including world-class shopping, theaters, and the vibrant nightlife of downtown San Francisco. For those who appreciate contemporary elegance, exceptional dining, and unmatched city views, the San Francisco Marriott Union Square is a premier choice among hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Marriott Union Square

Fairmont San Francisco

A landmark property atop Nob Hill, the Fairmont San Francisco is an excellent pick among hotels in San Francisco with the best views. This historic gem presents an array of classically designed rooms and suites. From its elevated position, the hotel features views of the Bay Bridge and the charming streets of Nob Hill. For those seeking the finest views, the Fairmont Gold rooms and suites provide elevated perspectives and exclusive amenities.

The Fairmont San Francisco also boasts an array of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests delight in the renowned Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, offering tropical-inspired cuisine and exotic cocktails. The Laurel Court Restaurant & Bar, meanwhile, serves upscale American classics. For relaxation, guests can indulge in spa treatments or take a dip in the indoor pool. Finally, the hotel is conveniently located, with Chinatown, Union Square, and the historic cable car lines a short walk away. For those who appreciate timeless elegance, fine dining, and easy comforts, The Fairmont San Francisco is a top-tier choice for hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Fairmont San Francisco

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel offers a unique and artful experience among San Francisco hotels. This boutique property features rooms and suites with contemporary yet classic decor. From its central location, the hotel’s large windows frame captivating views of San Francisco’s lively and historic Union Square.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel also offers an array of amenities to enhance your visit. Guests can savor innovative cocktails at the Redwood Room, known for its iconic redwood bar and chic atmosphere, or dine at one of three on-site restaurants. The hotel’s location also provides convenient access to nearby attractions such as the Museum of Modern Art and the historic cable car lines. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate contemporary luxury among hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Argonaut Hotel

The Argonaut Hotel is a well-loved hotel with the best views fo San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. The nautical-themed luxury hotel offers a collection of charming rooms and suites, each making the most of the stunning waterfront views. Some rooms offer private balconies, ideal for taking in the breathtaking vistas of San Francisco Bay, with Alcatraz Island in the foreground and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance.

In addition to its coastal ambiance and scenic location, the Argonaut Hotel provides an array of amenities to enhance your stay. There’s a fitness center, in-room spa services and yoga, and a 24-hour business center. For dining, The Blue Mermaid restaurant caters delicious seafood paired with California wines. The hotel’s location offers easy access to the nearby Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square, which offer a great selection of sightseeing, dining, and shopping. All things considered, the Argonaut is one of the top hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Argonaut Hotel

Luma Hotel San Francisco

Luma Hotel, a member of Design Hotels, offers a sleek and modern San Francisco hotel with city views. Self-proclaimed as the hottest new property in the city, Luma offers guests a bright, spacious way to enjoy an urban oasis. The corer king suites in particular boast floor-to-ceiling windows with wraparound views of the the San Francisco skyline. Not bad.

Hotel amenities include a fitness center, art installations, and fabulous on-site dining. The Cavaña Restaurant serves pan Latin cuisine, with the Trevino wine bar offering locally sourced wines. Luma also offers guests the chance to interact with HENRY, the digital concierge, and one of hospitality’s finest robots. Finally, the hotel’s location provides convenient access to nearby attractions such as Union Square and the Yerba Buena Gardens, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate contemporary elegance among hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Luma Hotel San Francisco

Luma Hotel

• Modern Design
• Digital Concierge
• Art Installations

Grand Hyatt Union Square

The Grand Hyatt Union Square is a notable high-rise hotel in San Francisco with city views. Set next to Union Square, the Grand Hyatt enjoys a central location packed with upscale shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Room types include those with city views, Union Square views, or Bay views. The higher bay view rooms are a great choice if you’re in search of a hotel with the best views in San Francisco. There’s also the Grand Club, located on the 32nd floor which offers unparalleled views of the Bay, Coit Tower, Alcatraz, and Downtown San Francisco.

Amenities at the Grand Hyatt include a fitness center, business rooms, 24-hour concierge, and digital check-in. The OneUP restaurant and lounge offers a diverse menu of American cuisine, while the Market Cafe serves locally owned and roasted Red Bay Coffee. And with the hotel’s central location, guests have easy access to some of the best dining in North America. It’s a favorite among San Francisco hotels with city views.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Grand Hyatt Union Square

W San Francisco

Perched in the bustling SoMa district, the W San Francisco offers a stylish and urban escape. The hotel offers rooms with either city, bay, or street views, with bright and funky decor typical of the W brand. I’d recommend the corner rooms or the WOW suite for the most panoramic views of the skyline and Bay Bridge.

Amenities at the W include a fitness center, the 24-hour Whatever/Whenever Concierge, and expansive events and meeting spaces with dedicated staff. Dining includes the TRACE restaurant, which serves sustainable and locally sourced cuisine, and the Living Room Bar. Notable nearby attractions include the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Yerba Buena Gardens, and Oracle Park. Furthermore, the hotel is among the most sustainable in the city, offering guests a way to minimize their impact while enjoying the best views in San Francisco.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for W San Francisco

The Westin St. Francis San Francisco

The Westin St. Francis San Francisco is a timeless hotel set on Powell Street in Union Square. A landmark property, the Westin offers historic elegance with modern comforts. Guest rooms are well-appointed, featuring bright interiors and plush amenities. Room views are clearly described, with Bridge View, Bay View, Park View, and City View rooms all on offer. It’s a great pick among hotels with the best views in San Francisco.

Hotel Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center with Peloton bikes and a Run program, and an abundance of events and meeting spaces. Dining options include The Oak Room Restaurant for fine dining experiences, Café Rito for Italian fare, the Chateau Montelena Tasting Room for wine tastings, and the iconic Clock Bar by Michael Mina. I was in a wedding party that stayed at the Chairman’s Suite and enjoyed a reception with sweeping views of the Bay. The Westin is not only a historic landmark but an excellent choice for a San Francisco hotel with city views.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for The Westin St. Francis

That’s it for the complete guide to the hotels with the best views in San Francisco! Whether you’re looking for a San Francisco Hotel with Golden Gate Views, or a sweeping view of the San Francisco skyline, I hope you found the perfect spot for your upcoming stay! Below is some more general information that will be helpful for visitors to San Francisco.

Best time to visit San Francisco

San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, picturesque streets, and unique culture, is a city that boasts a temperate climate year-round. However, the best times to visit San Francisco in terms of weather are during the spring (from April to June) and fall (from September to November). During these periods, the city experiences mild temperatures, minimal fog, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. The spring season is particularly vibrant with blooming flowers, while the fall offers clear skies and slightly warmer temperatures.

That said, it’s essential to note that San Francisco’s microclimates can cause rapid weather shifts even within the same day. The city is infamous for its chilly summer fog, especially in July and August, which can catch visitors off guard if they’re expecting traditional summer warmth. Hence, regardless of when you choose to visit, it’s always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for sudden temperature changes. The adage “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco,” attributed to Mark Twain, humorously underscores this unpredictable weather phenomenon.

Additionally, you can also enjoy various festivals and events that take place during this time, such as the San Francisco Jazz Festival and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass music festival.

Best things to do in San Francisco

1. Golden Gate Bridge: Perhaps the most iconic symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is a marvel of engineering and a photographer’s dream. Visitors can walk or bike across its 1.7-mile span, enjoying breathtaking views of the city, Alcatraz Island, and the Pacific Ocean. The nearby Golden Gate Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, offers lush gardens, museums, and recreational activities.
2. Alcatraz Island: Once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, Alcatraz Island offers a glimpse into life inside this former federal prison. A ferry ride from Pier 33 takes visitors to the island where they can take guided tours of the cell house, hear stories about its infamous inmates, and learn about the Native American occupation of 1969-71.
3. Cable Car Ride: Riding a historic cable car is a must-do in San Francisco. These manually operated vehicles offer a nostalgic journey through the city’s hilly streets. Popular routes include the ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square. It’s not just transportation but also a unique experience with panoramic views of the city.
4. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf: This bustling waterfront area is known for its seafood, street performers, and sea lion sightings. Attractions include the Maritime Museum, Ghirardelli Square (famous for its chocolate), and Pier 39, where visitors can watch playful sea lions. Delicious clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls is a local favorite.
5. Explore Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown, one of the oldest and largest in North America, is a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors can wander its bustling streets, sample authentic Chinese cuisine, visit temples, and shop for unique souvenirs. The ornate Chinatown Gate at Grant Avenue is an iconic entrance to this colorful neighborhood.

Best viewpoints in San Francisco

1. Twin Peaks: This popular viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the city from its two hills. On a clear day, you can see landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and downtown San Francisco. It’s particularly stunning during sunset and at night when the city lights come alive.
2. Coit Tower: Located atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower provides a 360-degree view of the city and bay. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for a nominal fee. Besides the view, the tower’s interior murals, painted during the 1930s, are worth a look.
3. Bernal Heights Park: This lesser-known hilltop park offers an expansive view of the city, from downtown skyscrapers to the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a serene spot, loved by locals, and is great for a short hike.
4. Cliff House and Sutro Baths: Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this viewpoint offers dramatic vistas of the coastline, the ruins of the historic Sutro Baths, and often, a spectacular sunset. It’s a unique spot that combines history, natural beauty, and the ocean’s grandeur.
5. Battery Spencer: Located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County, Battery Spencer is one of the best spots to view the bridge with the city in the background. It was once a military installation, and now, it’s a favorite spot for both tourists and photographers.
6. Alamo Square: Home to the famous “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses, this park offers a beautiful view of the colorful homes with the city’s modern skyline in the background. It’s a juxtaposition of historic and modern San Francisco.
7. Slacker Hill: Situated in the Marin Headlands, this viewpoint provides breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge with San Francisco in the backdrop. It requires a short hike to reach the top, but the views are well worth the effort.

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