
San Francisco/Embarcadero (North Waterfront) Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Embarcadero (North Waterfront) isn’t just a waterfront promenade—it’s the heart of San Francisco’s romantic skyline. By day, the breeze dances through your hair as you stroll past chic cafés and boutique shops; by night, golden lights shimmer across the bay like a dream. Every photo feels like a postcard, making it the ultimate spot to fall in love with the city—and the sea.

Perched atop Nob Hill, this luxurious hotel boasts an ideal location, just a 10-minute walk from a cable car station, and offers a full-service spa along with two unique dining venues for a memorable culinary experience. The rooms are stylishly designed with modern amenities like USB ports and pull-out minibars, some featuring stunning views of the bay or city skyline. Families will appreciate childcare services and kids' meals, ensuring comfort for all. Additionally, the fitness center, sauna, and water activities like sailing and kayaking promise an energetic getaway. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel caters to every need.

This luxury apartment in San Francisco offers one, two, or three-bedroom options to suit your needs. With Fairmont's world-class service, you'll feel right at home. The hotel features dryers, a fitness center, and valet parking, plus a picnic area for outdoor enjoyment. Whether for business or leisure, it meets all your expectations. A 2024 listed hotel, it's definitely worth a stay!

Everything you need to know about Embarcadero (North Waterfront)
The Fairmont San Francisco stands out as a premier waterfront hotel, located just steps from Embarcadero and offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. This historic luxury hotel features elegant interiors, world-class dining, and direct access to scenic waterfront promenades. Guests can easily explore nearby attractions like Fisherman's Wharf and the Maritime Museum while enjoying exceptional service and comfort.
The most convenient option is taking the free Muni Metro F-Market Line, a heritage streetcar that runs directly from Embarcadero to Union Square and Market Street in just a few minutes. This historic trolley offers scenic views of the city and bay along the way. Additionally, numerous bus routes and bike-sharing stations are available nearby, making it easy to navigate downtown with flexibility and style.
Near Embarcadero, visitors can enjoy private harbor boat tours that glide past Angel Island and the Golden Gate Strait, offering stunning coastal views. Nearby rental stations provide HopeGoo and paddleboard options for exploring hidden coves at your own pace. On weekends, the area hosts vibrant harbor markets featuring local crafts and fresh seafood, blending outdoor adventure with authentic San Francisco culture.
See what other travelers say about Embarcadero (North Waterfront)

Staying at the Fairmont San Francisco was an exceptional experience. While the hotel doesn't have the ultra-modern flair of newer properties, its timeless elegance and impeccable upkeep truly shine through. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and exuded a sense of quiet luxury. What stood out most was the consistently high standard in service, cleanliness, and location—everything felt thoughtfully curated. For the price, the level of attention to detail and guest comfort was outstanding. It’s rare to find such a well-rounded, reliable experience, and I’ll definitely be returning on my next visit to San Francisco. Highly recommend for anyone seeking genuine quality and value.

I've visited San Francisco multiple times over the years and stayed at several upscale hotels, but this one truly stands out as the best experience I've had in the city. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Ghirardelli Square, steps away from great dining, shopping, and iconic sights. The room was spacious, beautifully designed, and impeccably clean. Staff went above and beyond to make my stay memorable with genuine hospitality. From the moment I arrived to the time I left, everything felt seamless and luxurious. This isn't just a hotel—it's an experience. I'll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.

Staying at Hotel Stratford San Francisco - Handwritten Collection was an absolute delight. The location couldn't be better—it's right in the heart of Union Square, surrounded by public transit options that make getting to any part of the city a breeze. Whether you're heading to Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, or downtown shopping areas, everything is just a short ride away. Bonus: there's a Pop Mart store right outside the hotel where you can catch the latest Labubu figures—perfect for collectors or anyone who loves cute merch. It’s such a fun little detail that adds charm to the stay. With its unbeatable convenience and cozy vibe, this hotel offers excellent value and makes exploring San Francisco effortless and enjoyable.

The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.

We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.

On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
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