
San Francisco/Pier 50 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
Pier 50 pulses with urban energy—the coolest spot in town after dark. Neon lights glow, restaurants fill the air with aroma, and rooftop bars buzz with laughter. With the bay whispering beneath your feet, the city’s rhythm thrums through every step. Come for the view, stay for the vibe—this is San Francisco’s night magic.




















Everything you need to know about Pier 50
The Embarcadero Hotel is a top choice just steps from Pier 50, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Its modern industrial design features floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for capturing sunset vistas. The hotel provides complimentary shuttles to major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square, ensuring seamless access. Enjoy locally sourced breakfast options and upscale amenities in a prime waterfront location.
Walking from Pier 50 to Fisherman’s Wharf takes about 10 minutes, offering scenic views of the San Francisco Bay along the way. For a quicker option, take the F Market Streetcar from nearby stops—just a 5-minute ride to the "Pier 39" station. Riding the vintage streetcar is an experience in itself, passing through historic neighborhoods. Multiple Muni bus lines also serve the area, providing flexible transit options for independent travelers.
Near Pier 50, Scoma’s Restaurant offers a must-try San Francisco Seafood Platter, featuring freshly caught lobster, oysters, and crab. Located right on the water, diners enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. For a lighter option, visit The Pier 50 Café, serving Mediterranean-inspired light bites paired with locally roasted coffee and craft beer. Weekly live music performances add to the vibrant harbor atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxed evening outing.
Pier 50 features a kid-friendly splash zone open during summer, offering safe, interactive water play. Nearby, the San Francisco Maritime Museum showcases historic ship models and maritime heritage, perfect for children and adults alike. Daily guided boat tours depart from the pier, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights on local ecology and architecture. These 1-hour excursions combine fun and education, ideal for families seeking engaging waterfront experiences.
Pier 50 glows with light art installations that reflect off the San Francisco Bay, creating a dreamy nighttime ambiance. The illuminated Golden Gate Bridge stands out against the dark sky, blending harmoniously with the warm lighting along the pier. Several restaurants offer outdoor terraces where guests can sip cocktails while watching cross-bay ferries glide past. Visit after 6 PM to catch the perfect interplay of light and shadow, ideal for photography and romantic strolls.
See what other travelers say about Pier 50

Staying at Inn San Francisco was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean, with every corner spotless and well-maintained—no dust, no mess, just pure comfort. The bed was incredibly cozy, making for a restful night's sleep and a refreshing morning. The staff were beyond friendly and attentive, always smiling and ready to help with anything. Their warmth made the whole experience feel personal and welcoming. The Wi-Fi connection was lightning fast—perfect for streaming or working remotely—and the air conditioning kept the room perfectly cool without being too cold. Parking was convenient, and the location is ideal for exploring downtown San Francisco. With great dining options nearby and excellent value for money, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back!

This backpacker hostel is a hidden gem in San Francisco—small but full of charm and great energy. Even though it's compact, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The owner is super friendly and organizes daily activities like local tours, game nights, and group dinners, so you never feel alone on your trip. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and the shared spaces are always tidy—definitely above average for a hostel. It’s perfectly located near public transit, just a short ride from major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: there’s a fantastic Hunan restaurant right downstairs—authentic flavors and great value. Just mention the hostel name when ordering, and you’ll get a discount! If you’re looking for an affordable, social, and well-run stay in SF, this place is absolutely worth booking. I’d definitely come back.

The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, with great access to public transit and plenty of nearby dining options. The staff are warm and welcoming, making check-in and check-out smooth. Rooms are spacious and impeccably clean, offering plenty of room to relax after a long day exploring the city. The only minor drawback is that the windows are a bit outdated and don’t insulate well—occasionally moisture builds up, but it’s not enough to ruin the experience. Overall, this is an outstanding value for the price, especially given the central location and the range of amenities provided. I’d highly recommend it for families, weekend getaways, or business travelers looking for comfort and convenience without the premium price.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Union Square was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly close to the convention center—just a short walk away, making it perfect for business travelers. Right outside the door is the iconic cable car stop, so hopping on for a quick ride and snapping some photos is super easy. You can also reach famous spots like Lombard Street and the waterfront with just one cable car ride—definitely worth it! I highly recommend getting a day pass for $14; it’s affordable and gives you unlimited rides throughout the day. The room was clean, comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Overall, this hotel offers great value and unbeatable location—perfect for exploring San Francisco without hassle.

Staying at Chapter San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The hotel is impeccably clean and conveniently located near a major thoroughfare, making it easy to get around the city. I especially appreciated the luggage storage area and the cozy lounge—perfect for relaxing before check-in or waiting for my airport transfer. The ambiance is modern and welcoming, with thoughtful touches throughout. It’s clear the team cares about guest comfort. Highly recommend this gem for travelers looking for style, convenience, and a peaceful vibe.

Had a fantastic stay at Powell Place! This historic property truly stands out with its unique charm and prime location right along the cable car route—perfect for exploring San Francisco on foot or hopping on the iconic streetcars. The neighborhood is vibrant, walkable, and full of character. Our room was spacious, beautifully appointed, and immaculately clean—every detail felt thoughtfully designed. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit special, offering helpful tips and warm hospitality. We were able to easily explore downtown SF and nearby attractions, all within walking distance. From start to finish, it was an unforgettable experience. I’d absolutely stay here again—highly recommend for anyone looking for a stylish, authentic stay in the heart of the city.

Staying at HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip! Located right on a hilltop, the hostel offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city just a short walk down to Fort Mason Park. The nearby Safeway is only about 8 minutes away—perfect for grabbing essentials without having to go far. I especially loved the Equator Coffee shop just around the corner; great coffee and a cozy vibe. My bunk bed was surprisingly comfortable, and the hostel provided clean towels and sheets—no extra hassle. The staff were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist. If I ever return to this area, I’d definitely book here again—great location, excellent amenities, and unbeatable value. Plus, Fisherman’s Wharf is just a 15–20 minute walk downhill, making it easy to explore all the sights. There are plenty of charging stations in the lobby, and near the Franco café area, there’s a dedicated desk space with multiple outlets—ideal for travelers working or staying connected. Overall, this hostel delivers comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. A top pick for any budget-conscious traveler visiting San Francisco!

I absolutely loved my stay at San Remo Hotel—truly a gem in San Francisco’s historic landscape. The moment I walked in, I was struck by the stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork that give the place such character. Each room is uniquely furnished with antique pieces and original artwork—no two rooms are alike, which made the experience feel special and personal. The staff went above and beyond; they were warm, attentive, and genuinely seemed to care about guests’ comfort. Free coffee was excellent, and every bathroom came stocked with toiletries—no need to pack shampoo or soap. I was nervous about shared facilities, but it turned out to be surprisingly smooth and private: each shower and toilet has its own enclosed room with a lockable door. No one ever interrupted me, and privacy was never an issue. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—there’s a classy Italian restaurant downstairs, Trader Joe’s just a block away, and Fisherman’s Wharf is only a few blocks farther. Coit Tower and the famous zig-zag of Lombard Street are both within walking distance. I can’t recommend this place enough—it’s charming, convenient, and full of personality. I’m already planning my return visit.

The Willows Inn is one of the few clean, well-maintained, and reasonably priced options in San Francisco’s Castro neighborhood. The staff are consistently friendly and accommodating, always ready to help with anything you might need. While the bathroom and shower facilities are shared and located in the hallway—something we usually prefer to avoid—the setup works surprisingly well. We’ve never had to wait for access, and the cleanliness is excellent. The included breakfast is generous and satisfying. Having stayed here multiple times over the years, we genuinely appreciate the value and charm this place offers. If you’re looking for a comfortable, authentic stay in the heart of Castro, The Willows Inn is absolutely worth considering.

Staying at Castle Inn in San Francisco was an absolute delight—definitely one of the best value stays I've had in the city. Even though I didn't use the free parking (which is a nice bonus in a place where parking can be so expensive), just knowing it's available made the trip stress-free. The neighborhood is incredibly safe—I never saw a suspicious person during my five-day stay, and I felt completely comfortable walking around even at night. The room itself is spacious beyond expectations—my two large suitcases fit easily with room to spare, and I’d guess you could fit five without any issue. Having a microwave in the room was a huge plus for quick meals. Plus, there’s a supermarket and a pharmacy just a 1-minute walk away—perfect for last-minute needs. If I ever return to San Francisco, Castle Inn will be my top choice again. Highly recommend for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and peace of mind.

At 66, this was my first time staying at a hostel—and I’m amazed by how welcoming everyone was and how clean and comfortable the rooms are. We booked an en-suite room with crisp white towels, fresh bedding on a wonderfully comfy bed, and daily housekeeping made sure everything stayed spotless. Located just around the corner from Union Square, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring downtown San Francisco—walking distance to shops, restaurants, and all major transit options. The location is unbeatable, and the value for money is outstanding. Huge thanks to the friendly staff at check-in—they made our arrival smooth and stress-free.

Staying at the Royal Pacific Motor Inn was an absolute delight, especially for travelers who value convenience and affordability. The best part? Secure parking right in the heart of the city—no more stressing over finding a spot. It’s a game-changer for those driving. Plus, the location is fantastic—just a short walk or quick ride to all nearby attractions. I was impressed by how many authentic Cantonese restaurants are within walking distance; dining there felt like stepping back into the 80s with the nostalgic flavors and cozy vibe. The price point is unbeatable, offering great value without compromising on comfort or location. I’d highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting San Francisco looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly stay with a touch of charm.
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