
San Francisco/Mountain Lake 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
Tucked away in the hills, Mountain Lake is San Francisco’s hidden sanctuary of calm. The mirror-like water reflects skies and trees, while a gentle breeze makes your breath feel lighter. Whether you're jogging at dawn, picnicking at noon, or simply sitting to watch the sunset, this peaceful spot offers a perfect escape from city chaos. Yes, you read that right—old town meets serenity in the heart of the Bay Area.

This hotel boasts a prime location right at Union Square, just steps away from theaters, shopping districts, and bustling Chinatown. Hop on a cable car to reach iconic spots like Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghiradelli Square! Perfect for business meetings, romantic getaways, or family trips, it features over 6,700 sqm of versatile space, including 19 meeting rooms and the rooftop Grandviews restaurant, where you can savor French-inspired American cuisine with panoramic bay views. Rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Union Square and the city skyline, plus Hyatt Grand Beds for ultimate comfort!

Located in the heart of San Francisco, this hotel is just minutes away from the Embarcadero Center! Enjoy the 24-hour fitness center and bike rentals to stay active during your trip. Family-friendly amenities like kids' meals and childcare services make it perfect for all ages. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces and express check-in. Rooms feature smart TVs and luxurious bedding for ultimate comfort. Don't forget to unwind at the bar/lounge after a busy day exploring the city!

This hotel is the perfect spot in San Francisco! Just steps away from Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown, it’s super convenient for exploring. The stylish lobby and versatile meeting spaces make it ideal for both business and social events. Unwind at the outdoor heated pool or whirlpool spa. Dine on Angus burgers at Knuckles at the Wharf or savor authentic Californian cuisine at Enoteca Musto. Rooms feature Hyatt Grand Beds and free Wi-Fi for ultimate comfort.




Everything you need to know about Mountain Lake
The Claremont Hotel & Spa is a top choice nestled near Mountain Lake, offering stunning views of the lakeside greenery and surrounding hills. This historic boutique hotel combines luxury with nature, featuring an award-winning spa, hiking trail access, and a restaurant specializing in fresh local ingredients. Located just 15 minutes from downtown San Francisco, it’s easily reachable by car or bus. Ideal for both leisure travelers seeking tranquility and business guests needing comfort and convenience, the hotel blends elegance with California’s natural charm.
Getting to Mountain Lake from downtown San Francisco is convenient via multiple options: take bus lines 28 or 30 along Kearny Street, reaching the area in about 20–25 minutes; alternatively, rent an e-bike and ride along the scenic Bay Area Ridge Trail for a refreshing, eco-friendly journey. For added comfort and flexibility, ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft offer a 15-minute trip with reasonable fares. Plenty of parking is available around Mountain Lake, making it ideal for self-drivers. The well-connected transit system ensures easy access for all types of travelers.
Near Mountain Lake, visitors can enjoy a range of unique outdoor activities including lake kayaking (rental options for single or tandem kayaks), loop hiking trails (about 4 km long, passing through native forests and birdwatching spots), and weekend guided nature walks led by expert naturalists exploring local wildlife and flora. Summer events also feature outdoor yoga sessions and stargazing programs, offering peaceful moments under the open sky. Most activities are free to access, though some require advance HopeGoo. These experiences combine fitness, education, and relaxation—perfect for immersing in the natural beauty of San Francisco’s hidden gems.
Yes, The Claremont Hotel & Spa near Mountain Lake is highly family-friendly, offering amenities such as a children’s pool, family suites with separate bedrooms and play areas, and daily kids’ craft workshops (like pottery and nature art). The hotel features a mini-club staffed by trained professionals for children aged 6 to 12, allowing parents to relax with spa treatments or dining. Safe playgrounds, picnic zones, and baby stroller rentals are also available. The nearby lakeside walking trails are perfect for family strolls, making it an ideal destination for bonding and outdoor fun.
Mountain Lake Lodge is the top choice for accommodations near Mountain Lake, offering lakefront views and easy access to hiking trails. The lodge features an indoor hot spring pool and guided nature walks, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco via bus or rental car, it’s ideal for a peaceful retreat. Public transit doesn’t reach the area directly—ride-sharing services are recommended. Nearby attractions include the Mountain Lake Wildlife Sanctuary and a stargazing platform, where night skies reveal stunning constellations, making it a rare urban escape with natural beauty.
The most convenient option is renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Public transit requires multiple bus transfers and takes about an hour, with no direct route. For buses, take the 97-line from the 4th Street stop to "Mountain Lake Station," but service is limited to weekdays only. Driving saves time and allows flexibility to explore nearby spots like the lake trailhead and scenic overlooks, enhancing your overall visit efficiency and experience.
Enjoy guided early-morning ecological tours to spot local birds and wetland species, or book a kayaking adventure on the serene lake, reflecting distant mountains. The Mountain Lake picnic grounds feature wooden platforms and shaded shelters—perfect for family gatherings. Weekly stargazing events on Saturdays include telescopes and astronomy talks, revealing constellations and the Milky Way. Don’t miss the Mountain Lake Art Trail, showcasing nature-inspired sculptures by local artists, blending art and environment in a truly immersive way.
Yes, Mountain Lake Lodge provides excellent family-friendly facilities. Rooms include child safety railings and baby bathtubs, plus a dedicated kids’ playroom with puzzles, art supplies, and sand tables. Daily family nature workshops—such as creating plant specimens or building bird nests—encourage environmental curiosity. Outdoor features include a children’s pool and a mini rock climbing wall. Family suites accommodate up to four guests, with spacious layouts, separate living areas, and kitchenettes, ideal for extended stays with children.
See what other travelers say about Mountain Lake

We arrived at the hotel after 10 PM and were hungry, but there wasn't any dining option nearby. Thankfully, the front desk staff—a kind Asian colleague—suggested using Uber Eats for food delivery. It was a lifesaver! My meal arrived just 10 minutes later, exactly when I needed it. The room itself was spotless, spacious enough for our needs, and very comfortable. Everything about the stay felt seamless and well thought out. Excellent service and a great location in Union Square make this hotel a top pick for future visits.

Staying at Hyatt Regency San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—right next to the streetcar stop, making it easy to get around downtown without needing a car. Parking is available at the adjacent parking garage, just a 3-5 minute walk from the hotel. It's well-marked and easy to find, with levels 3 and 4 both being accessible. What stood out most was the parking fee: capped at $37 for 24 hours, which is half the price of many other hotels in the city. Plus, unlike some properties that charge mandatory resort fees, Hyatt offers a daily $20 credit toward breakfast or drinks at the bar—no extra cost. Breakfast prices are reasonable: $20 for kids, $40 for adults (before taxes), and the quality and variety were great. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value, comfort, and convenience—perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free stay in San Francisco.

Located just a 10-minute walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, this hotel offers an unbeatable location—perfect for exploring the waterfront, dining, and shopping without needing to rely on transportation. The convenience of being steps away from all the action is truly a highlight. That said, parking is expensive at $75 per night plus tax, which is definitely a downside. However, given the recent increase in window-breaking incidents across San Francisco, I felt much safer staying onsite despite the cost. Two nights here were well worth it for peace of mind and location alone. If you value proximity to attractions and security, this is a solid choice—especially if you're planning to explore the area extensively.

Staying at Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown Soma was an absolute delight. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made it easy to fall asleep and hard to get up in the morning. Noise insulation was excellent, so I wasn’t disturbed by hallway sounds at night. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service—whether helping with recommendations or handling requests, they were always prompt and courteous. The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring downtown: it’s just steps from the BART station, making it super easy to reach Union Square, the Financial District, and other key attractions. For the quality, comfort, and convenience, this hotel offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit San Francisco.

The location is excellent—just a short walk to downtown San Francisco and surrounded by great restaurants and shops. While the bathroom is on the smaller side, the room was clean, well-maintained, and had a nice modern touch. The staff were friendly and helpful, and overall, the experience lived up to the Jdv by Hyatt standard. Great value for the price, and I’d definitely stay here again.

Our stay at The Laurel Inn was absolutely wonderful—quiet, comfortable, and incredibly well-located. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, professional service; every interaction felt genuine and helpful. We booked a room with a small kitchenette, which made a big difference—having space to prepare light meals and enjoy coffee in the room added so much convenience and comfort. The neighborhood felt safe both during the day and at night, which made walking around easy and stress-free. It’s clear the hotel prioritizes guest wellbeing and experience. A standout choice for anyone looking for a peaceful, stylish stay in San Francisco. Would definitely return.

Staying at Hyatt Place San Francisco/Downtown was an absolute delight. The location is perfect for catching a game at the nearby arena—just a short walk away and super convenient. The hotel itself is spotless, secure, and well-maintained, giving you peace of mind from the moment you arrive. I especially loved the outdoor patio—inviting seating, greenery, and a great vibe to unwind after a long day. It’s rare to find such comfort and convenience in one place. Highly recommend this stay if you’re visiting downtown San Francisco.

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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