Pier 80 isn’t just a dock—it’s a cultural heartbeat. Once a gritty industrial hub, it now pulses with art galleries, pop-up markets, and breathtaking rooftop views over the bay. Sip coffee on a weathered bench, watch cargo containers transformed into vibrant installations glow under sunset light, and catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance—where urban grit meets poetic beauty

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 Pier 80
The Embarcadero Hotel is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Pier 80. Its modern industrial design features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The hotel provides complimentary parking, 24-hour concierge service, and easy access to scenic waterfront trails and seaside cafés, making it ideal for travelers seeking a blend of urban charm and coastal serenity.
The most convenient option is taking the BART subway from SFO Airport to Embarcadero Station, a 30-minute ride, then a 5-minute walk to The Embarcadero Hotel. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft takes about 20–25 minutes depending on traffic. Both options offer reliable, comfortable travel with scenic views of San Francisco’s cityscape and bay en route, enhancing your arrival experience.
Though originally an industrial site, Pier 80 has been transformed into a vibrant urban oasis offering diverse outdoor experiences. Stroll or bike along the Embarcadero Waterfront Trail for stunning bay views and sunset vistas. Try guided kayaking tours to explore the harbor from the water. Weekends often feature outdoor markets and live street performances, blending art, food, and music—perfect for immersing in San Francisco’s dynamic culture.
Yes, the area around Pier 80 features a family-oriented urban park with interactive installations like large murals, climbing structures, and open green lawns perfect for kids to play. Nearby Marina Green Park offers shaded seating, picnic areas, and playgrounds, plus sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and passing boats. It’s an ideal spot for parents to unwind while children enjoy safe, engaging outdoor fun.
Head to The Ferry Building Marketplace, a 15-minute walk from Pier 80, featuring award-winning eateries. Must-try: Fort Mason Café’s California-Mediterranean breakfast and Milk Bar’s inventive desserts. For fresh seafood, visit Dungeness Crab Shack, serving freshly caught crab dishes with bay views. All restaurants emphasize locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the true essence of San Francisco’s culinary scene.
Pier 80 itself is a favorite among photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when golden light accentuates its steel structure. Head to the Embarcadero Promenade for reflections of the Golden Gate Bridge and moving boats. The open lawns and waterfront benches at Marina Green Park also offer ideal backdrops for portrait shots and skyline compositions—perfect for capturing San Francisco’s iconic light and atmosphere.
Near Pier 80, the top recommendation is The Embarcadero Hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront. This boutique hotel blends modern design with industrial-chic interiors, offering select rooms with panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and the distant Golden Gate Bridge. The rooftop lounge features live music and craft cocktails, perfect for evening relaxation with sea breezes.
For a more immersive harbor experience, consider Pier 80 Waterfront Apartments, ideal for families or extended stays. These apartment-style units include kitchenettes and private balconies, providing direct access to the marina atmosphere. With free parking nearby and multiple bus routes within a 30-minute walk, transportation is convenient. Whether you're watching ships depart, joining a sailing tour, or enjoying sunset views, this area delivers a genuine maritime lifestyle.
The easiest way from downtown San Francisco is taking Muni Bus Route 21 or Trolley Buses (Line 22) to the "Pier 80" stop—just a 15-minute ride. Alternatively, take the BART to Embarcadero Station and transfer to a free shuttle bus to the pier area. For a scenic option, walk south along Embarcadero Way (~25 minutes), passing waterfront views and historic buildings.
If driving, use Google Maps to navigate to "Pier 80 Parking Lot," with daily rates at $10 and credit card payment accepted. Weekends often feature Bay Wheels bike-sharing stations at the entrance, making cycling a sustainable and enjoyable choice. Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning light for photography or romantic strolls.
Pier 80 offers a rare blend of industrial heritage and vibrant urban life. Visitors can join sailing tours led by experienced captains, exploring San Francisco Bay with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island. The pier frequently hosts outdoor markets and art exhibitions, showcasing local sculptures, paintings, and handmade crafts—some even offer live creation workshops.
Don’t miss The Dockside Grind, a waterfront café serving specialty coffee and light bites with panoramic bay views. Evening jazz performances add to the laid-back charm. Nature lovers will appreciate the area as a prime birdwatching spot, home to gulls, ducks, and kingfishers. For deeper insight, book a nautical history tour to learn about the pier’s legacy and San Francisco’s port evolution.
Ultimately, Pier 80 is more than a dock—it’s a living museum where culture, nature, and city life converge.
Yes, Pier 80 offers several family-friendly amenities. A dedicated children’s play area features soft padding and shaded shelters, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy safe play. Nearby, free public restrooms and water fountains ensure convenience for caregivers.
Every Saturday afternoon, the pier hosts Family Day events, including hands-on craft workshops, storytime sessions, and mini maritime education talks led by local volunteers—perfect for learning through fun. The adjacent waterfront walking path is ideal for biking or jogging as a family, with benches and informational signage along the route.
Just steps away, Pier 80 Park provides picnic areas and open green lawns suitable for group gatherings. Seasonal events like family movie nights are held on the pier plaza, featuring outdoor screenings with projectors and blanket rentals. Overall, it’s one of San Francisco’s most welcoming urban oases designed specifically for families.
See what other travelers say about Pier 80

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.

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.

I stayed at Jackson Court during a busy trip that included a visit to Yosemite National Park. I checked in one day, left the next morning for Yosemite, and returned two days later to check back in. The staff were incredibly accommodating—they gladly stored my luggage while I was away, no questions asked. When I returned late at night, my room was ready and waiting, even Kate had been notified to greet me personally. It felt so thoughtful and welcoming after a long journey. The seamless experience made all the difference, especially with such a packed schedule. I truly appreciate how well-organized and guest-focused the team is—this hotel deserves every bit of its perfect score.

I stayed at Rodeway Inn Civic Center for one night and was genuinely impressed. The location is super convenient—just a short subway ride into downtown San Francisco, with plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby, making it safe and easy to get around even at night. The room was clean, well-maintained, and the bed was comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The air conditioning worked efficiently without any noise issues. Staff were friendly and helpful during check-in, which went smoothly. For the price, this hotel offers excellent value for money—perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a decent stay. I’d definitely consider returning on my next trip to San Francisco and would recommend it to friends.

I’ve stayed at this hotel multiple times now, and it consistently exceeds my expectations. In a city like San Francisco where space and value are at a premium, the experience here feels truly exceptional. The staff is warm, attentive, and genuinely goes the extra mile—on one occasion, I was upgraded to a larger room with a stunning view, which made the stay even more memorable. The location is unbeatable: just steps away from Union Square, with easy access to public transit, shopping, dining, and major attractions. What stands out most is the incredible value for money—luxury amenities, top-tier service, and a welcoming atmosphere all wrapped up in one. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a home away from home. Definitely my go-to choice whenever I’m back in the city.

Staying at Buena Vista Motor Inn was a really pleasant experience overall. The location is fantastic—quiet, safe, and just a short walk from the marina and several key attractions. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, even late at night. They went out of their way to assist with parking when things got busy, and handled package deliveries smoothly and efficiently. The only downside was the carpet in our room, which stayed cold and damp throughout our stay due to a leaking air conditioner. We brought it up, but were told it's 'normal'—a bit disappointing, especially since the moisture spread across half the room. That said, we managed by simply wearing shoes inside, so it wasn’t a dealbreaker. For a great value, excellent service, and a peaceful setting, this place definitely earns a solid recommendation.

Staying at The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco was an absolute delight. The room was spotless, comfortably furnished, and recently renovated—everything felt fresh and modern. Located right in the heart of downtown, it's incredibly convenient for exploring the city on foot. I loved how close it was to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The breakfast spread was excellent—diverse options with great quality, from fresh pastries to hearty continental fare. The on-site bar is a real gem: stylish, cozy, and perfect for unwinding after a long day. Plus, having complimentary bottled water available throughout the stay was a thoughtful touch. Every detail felt well-considered, making this hotel a standout choice. If you're visiting San Francisco, this is definitely one to consider.

Had a fantastic stay at Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco! The room was the perfect size for solo travelers—cozy and well-designed, though couples with lots of luggage might want to keep that in mind. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk from Union Square and surrounded by great transit options, making exploring the city super easy. I also appreciated having access to a relaxed common area before check-in and after check-out—ideal for unwinding or waiting without rushing off. Plus, the $15 breakfast credit at the on-site café was such a nice touch; it made my mornings more enjoyable and added real value to the experience.
Explore more amazing destinations