The 6 Best San Francisco Hotels with a View

San Francisco has a number of iconic views. From the modern skyline of the Financial District to bay views looking out over Alcatraz or the Golden Gate Bridge. To enjoy the whole picture from above, choose a hotel in upmarket Nob Hill. Or perhaps you would rather be right on the waterfront in bustling Fisherman's Wharf? Whatever your preference, our Hotel Gurus have scoured the city to bring you a collection of the best hotels with views in San Francisco. From all-out luxury stays to fun family-friendly properties, there is something for everyone here.

For bay views

• Harbor Court Hotel, as the name suggests, is ideally positioned overlooking the bay, situated between the Financial District and Oracle Park. Stylish contemporary interiors make the most of the industrial building's proportions. Located near many of the city's sights and offering bicycles to get around.
• Perfectly located near Fisherman's Wharf, the Argonaut is a stylish hotel offered at great rates. Nautically themed rooms feature exposed brick and luxury bathrooms. The best have bay views. An ideal base to explore the city from.

For families

• Hotel Zephyr is a laid-back stay situated beside Fisherman's Wharf. The best rooms have private balconies to enjoy the bay views from. While the inner courtyard is filled with activities making this a perfect choice for families.

For luxury

• The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square is a luxury all-suite hotel offering a landmark setting on San Francisco's bay. Suites range from one to three bedrooms and in-suite fine-dining makes this a very indulgent stay. For a special occasion book this property for private group terrace dining overlooking the water.
• Fairmont San Francisco is another luxury offering by the same hotel group. Somewhat of a landmark property, this hotel has seen the likes of Tony Bennet sing in the Venetian Room. Choose a suite with panoramic views from the expansive windows (complete with a telescope to truly enjoy them!).

For a boutique

• Hotel VIA is a stylish contemporary boutique in the city's trendy South Beach. Expansive rooms enjoy wonderful views from the large warehouse windows (the best look across the bay). However, to really enjoy the city head up to the roofterrace for an evening cocktail.

Still not sure which to book?

• Consider our Guru’s list of all the best hotels in San Francisco.
• Widen your search to include our pick of places to stay in nearby Sausalito or all our recommendations across California.
• Or why not browse through our list of the best hotels near Union Square, the best hotels near Fisherman's Wharf or the best hotels with in-room hot tubs in San Francisco?
• Alternatively you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Hotel VIA San Francisco (South Beach) 159 rooms from AU$606

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set beside AT&T Park and San Francisco Bay - locations don't get much more central than this

    Boutique  -  A stylish boutique spot with an urban loft feel and sleek minimalist design

    Sights nearby  -  Make a stop by the iconic Golden Gate Bridge

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    A stylish boutique hotel in San Francisco's trendy South Beach, once the city's industrial district. Minimalist rooms are light and airy and have a soft feel in stark contrast to the warehouse building. A roof terrace bar is a real draw and the bay views are mesmerising. A hip central base. See More

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  • Harbor Court Hotel San Francisco (Financial District) 131 rooms from AU$372

    
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    City Style  -  A stylish base overlooking San Francisco Bay and perfectly placed between the Financial District and Oracle Park

    Sights nearby  -  Make a stop by the Golden Gate Bridge and admire the impressive structure

    Views  -  Many of the rooms have wonderful views over San Francisco Bay

    Restaurant  -  A Japanese restaurant located next to the hotel

    

    A smart hotel located overlooking the bay in a convenient spot between the Financial District and Oracle Park. Once a YMCA - a massive renovation has turned this into a luxury stay. Rooms are small but perfectly formed with a hint of an industrial feel in the design. Ideal for city exploring. See More

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  • The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square San Francisco (Fort Mason) 53 rooms from AU$1151

    
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    Luxury  -  A landmark setting with some seriously indulgent extras including in-suite fine dining and a spoiling spa

    Families  -  With suites that range from 1 - 3 bedrooms this is an ideal choice for a luxury family break

    Sights nearby  -  Take a leisurely stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge and admire the city views

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    A luxury all-suite hotel offering a landmark setting on San Francisco's bay. Accommodation ranges from one to three bed suites all designed with stylish minimalism and most with superb bay views. There is no restaurant as such but in-suite fine-dining is a real luxury. A very fine stay. See More

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  • Argonaut San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf) 252 rooms from AU$320

    
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    Local exploring  -  Located near Fisherman's Wharf there are museums and markets to explore locally (plus the bay) and great transport links

    Local markets  -  Wander through the sea front market at Fisherman's Wharf

    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge

    Full of character

    

    Stylish accommodation in a prime location near Fisherman's Wharf. The chic rooms have a distinctly nautical feel and the bathrooms are stocked with luxury Lather® products. The lively restaurant and bar have a laid back feel. Offered at excellent rates, this is a great city base. See More

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  • Hotel Zephyr San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf) 360 rooms from AU$350

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well postioned right beside Fisherman's Wharf - step out of the hotel and explore San Francisco's boutiques and restaurants

    Families  -  With fun design, a laid back feel, a games room and large courtyard area - this is ideal for those travelling with children

    Sights nearby  -  A trip to the city wouldn't be complete without a stop by the Golden Gate Bridge

    Local markets  -  Explore the waterfront marketplace at Fisherman's Wharf

    

    The Zephyr Hotel could not have a better location - set right by Fisherman's Wharf. This is a large hotel with a spacious central courtyard filled with all sorts of activities. The interiors are fun and vibrant with a distinctly nautical feel, Perfect for exploring the city with friends or family. See More

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  • Fairmont San Francisco San Francisco (Nob Hill) 606 rooms from AU$541

    
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    City Style  -  Somewhat of a city landmark, this hotel does traditional elegance impeccably

    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip out to Alcatraz - both a fascinating place to visit and a great way to admire the city from the sea

    Opulent

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    This hotel is a real landmark. It has seen the likes of Tony Bennet sing in the Venetian Room - and it still has that same old-world grandeur. Enjoying spectacular views of the bay (especially good from the suites' terraces) and boasting a design that combines tradition and modern elegance. See More

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Written by Katie Harris

posted Tuesday, 21st June 2022