
San Francisco/The Castro 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
Walk down Castro Street, where the rhythm of life pulses in rainbow hues. This vibrant corridor is more than a neighborhood—it’s the heartbeat of LGBTQ+ history, art, and fearless self-expression, where every mural and storefront whispers a tale of courage and identity.

This legendary luxury hotel in downtown San Francisco seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern elegance. Enjoy exceptional service including a professional concierge, valet parking, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with a glass-enclosed heated pool. The beautifully decorated rooms offer in-room dining with stunning city views. The hotel features two award-winning restaurants with unique ambiance. Its prime location is steps away from Union Square, cable cars, and Chinatown, making it perfect for exploring the city. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.

This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of San Francisco, just a 4-minute walk to the Ferry Building and 9 minutes to the Bay Bridge. Enjoy a relaxing full-service spa with massages and body treatments, or stay active at the 24-hour fitness center. With free WiFi and concierge services, plus 200 cozy rooms featuring minibars and espresso machines, you'll feel right at home. Dine at the on-site restaurant or unwind at the bar, and don't miss the outdoor seating when the weather's nice. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers!

This hotel is a perfect choice for family trips! Located at Fisherman's Wharf, just minutes away from Hyde Street Pier and Ghirardelli Square. With a kids' play area and babysitting services, parents can relax at the fitness center or enjoy sailing. Free WiFi and a 24-hour business center make it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Unwind at the Blue Mermaid Restaurant for seafood or sip a drink at the bar. Rooms feature iPod docks and minibars, making you feel right at home!

This hotel is the perfect blend of family-friendly and business-savvy! Located near Fisherman's Wharf, it's just a short walk to Ghirardelli Square and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. With childcare services and a game room, kids will have a blast while adults unwind with massages and facials. Don't miss the free evening reception to mingle with other guests, or relax at the bar after a busy day. The rooms are luxurious, featuring designer toiletries and Italian Frette linens—pure comfort!














Everything you need to know about The Castro
The Castro Hotel is a top choice, located right in the heart of Castro Street and designed with LGBTQ+ travelers in mind. It features rainbow-themed rooms and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity. Just a 5-minute walk from the Castro Street landmark and the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, the hotel offers free local event guides and curated experiences. Guests enjoy easy access to iconic gay bars, cultural events, and the vibrant spirit of one of America's most inclusive neighborhoods.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible via San Francisco Muni Metro. Key stops include Castro Station (N Judah line) and 17th Street/Castro Station (T Third Street line), both within a 5-minute walk. Multiple bus lines such as 28, 30, and 43 also serve the area, linking it to major attractions across the city. From SFO Airport, take the BART to Powell Street Station, then transfer to Muni for a convenient 30-minute journey. The neighborhood features wide sidewalks and bike lanes, making walking and cycling ideal for exploring the vibrant district.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Must-visit experiences include the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, which chronicles the city’s civil rights journey. Dine at Cafe Cofa or Milk Bar for artistic ambiance and local flavor. Stroll along the Castro Street landmark at dusk to enjoy neon lights and street performances. Don’t miss the annual Pride Parade in June, drawing hundreds of thousands for a celebration of diversity and freedom. Independent bookstores, art galleries, and boutique shops throughout the district reflect a bold, creative, and countercultural spirit.
Try Roxie's Café, a hidden gem tucked in a side alley, offering LGBTQ+ themed café fare with standout artisan pastries and creative brunch dishes like the colorful "Rainbow Benedict". For authentic Mexican flavors, visit El Tejano, known for its lively atmosphere and live music. For a refined dining experience, The Ivy Room blends modern American cuisine with elegant décor, overlooking Castro Street. All are within walking distance, creating an intimate, diverse, and welcoming culinary scene perfect for every traveler.
Castro Hotel is a top choice, located in the heart of Castro Street with historic charm and modern amenities. The hotel features original 1906 earthquake-era architecture, restored with LGBTQ+ art installations, including rainbow-colored glass windows and vibrant murals. It's just a 5-minute walk from Castro Street shops and Harvey Milk Plaza, offering easy access to LGBTQ+ cultural landmarks. Multiple bus lines (e.g., 23, 28) stop nearby, making it ideal for exploring San Francisco’s most inclusive neighborhood.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible. Multiple Muni bus lines (23, 28, 30) run directly along the street, connecting to major destinations like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge. A short 10-minute ride from Duboce Transit Center station allows transfers to the Embarcadero and Chinatown via Muni Metro. The area is also pedestrian- and bike-friendly—riding along Market Street southward leads quickly to City Hall and shopping districts, making it an ideal base for exploring downtown San Francisco.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Attend the annual Folsom Street Fair in summer, where the entire district transforms into a vibrant rainbow celebration. Join a historic LGBTQ+ walking tour to learn about the civil rights movement since the 1970s. Local cafes and bars like Milk Bar host live music and poetry readings. Don’t miss the Castro Theatre, which regularly screens classic films and indie productions—perfect for soaking in the area’s rich artistic heritage.
The Rainbow Flag Sculpture at the intersection of Castro and Market Streets is a must-photograph landmark. Harvey Milk Plaza features a memorial monument and colorful mosaic flooring, framed by striking red and gold public art. The Castro Theatre, with its 1920s architectural style and glowing marquee, creates dramatic nighttime shots. Even storefronts along the street often display rainbow motifs and LGBTQ+ symbols—ideal for candid, story-rich street photography.
Try tapas at Cafe Florencia, especially their ham and tomato croquettes and garlic shrimp. Bartolotta Ristorante is renowned for handmade Italian pastas—don’t miss their truffle cream fettuccine. For fusion cuisine, visit Pier 24, offering creative dishes like teriyaki salmon bowls and Korean-style spicy fried chicken. All restaurants are within walking distance, many with outdoor seating perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
Castro Street maintains strong safety standards with 24/7 surveillance cameras, well-lit sidewalks, and regular police patrols—especially during Pride Month events. Emergency call boxes are installed along the street, connected to city emergency services. Visitors are advised to stay in well-traveled areas, avoid secluded alleys, and keep belongings secure during peak times. The neighborhood remains welcoming and safe, but standard precautions apply.
See what other travelers say about The Castro

Staying at the Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in San Francisco was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from Union Square, making it easy to explore shopping, dining, and local attractions. The hotel exudes old-world elegance with its grand European palace-inspired design, creating a truly luxurious atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The rooms are spacious, beautifully furnished, and incredibly comfortable, with high-quality bedding that made for a restful night's sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly without being overbearing, always ready to help. It’s clear this hotel takes pride in delivering exceptional service and attention to detail. For anyone visiting San Francisco, this is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience worth every penny.

Staying at 1 Hotel San Francisco was an absolute delight—eco-conscious design meets unbeatable location. Right across from the Pier, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring downtown and catching public transit. The rooms are sleek and calming, with sustainable materials throughout that really enhance the experience. While breakfast options were a bit limited, everything was fresh and thoughtfully prepared, especially the locally sourced organic jams. It’s clear the team prioritizes both comfort and sustainability. This hotel offers excellent value and made my trip to San Francisco truly memorable.

Staying at Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, just steps away from the waterfront, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience and stunning ocean views. The building itself has such character—rich with history and charm—making it feel like you’ve stepped into a bygone era. All amenities are well-maintained and thoughtfully arranged, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. While the experience is fantastic overall, I’d recommend this hotel for solo travelers or couples seeking a quiet, intimate stay. It truly shines when you’re not sharing the moment with a big group. If you're looking for a memorable, authentic San Francisco getaway, this place delivers on every level.

Staying at Stanford Court San Francisco was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—perched on a hilltop, it’s quiet and peaceful, with zero noise or disturbances from the street. Right outside the front door is a perfect photo spot, and just across the intersection, there’s a kiosk where you can grab a one-day Muni pass—super convenient for exploring the city. The service was outstanding; staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to hand over bottled water at the lobby, and they even provided two bottles upon check-in—such a thoughtful touch. I really hoped for a room upgrade, but even without it, the experience was flawless. If I ever return to San Francisco, this hotel will be my first choice. It’s a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and charm—highly recommend!

Staying at Galleria Park Hotel in downtown San Francisco was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, the elegant lobby set the tone for a wonderful experience. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—always with a smile and ready to assist. What truly stood out was the rooftop garden on the fourth floor, complete with walking paths perfect for a morning stroll or a quick jog. As someone who’s a bit cautious about downtown safety, having this peaceful green space right within the hotel was a game-changer. It made me feel secure and relaxed throughout my stay. Every detail—from the thoughtful design to the attentive service—exceeded expectations. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, this hotel offers an unbeatable combination of comfort, location, and tranquility. I’ll definitely be returning.

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.

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 Hotel Via was a solid experience overall. The room was comfortable, clean, and well-maintained—bedding was cozy and the space felt welcoming. That said, parking costs $75 per night, which is quite steep, especially since there aren’t many nearby parking options. In San Francisco, renting a car isn’t always practical—public transit, walking, or rideshares are usually more convenient. The view from the window isn’t much to write home about (just another building across the street), but for travelers focused on location and ease of access, this is still a good option. The hotel sits in a central area, making it easy to get around town without hassle. If you’re looking for a no-frills, reliable stay with great accessibility, Hotel Via delivers value without breaking the bank.

Staying here for two nights was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—quiet street but just a short walk from the Presidio, making morning strolls absolutely peaceful and refreshing. We booked a lovely top-floor room with great natural light and a comfortable layout. Our hostess, Kathleen, was warm, attentive, and genuinely made us feel welcome. Each morning, she served a delicious and thoughtfully prepared breakfast that added to the cozy charm of the stay. After checking out, we realized we’d left behind a pair of earbuds. I reached out to Kathleen, and although they couldn’t find it right away, she had her team check thoroughly. Later, we got a message saying they’d found it in the laundry—and even shipped it back to us! That kind of care and attention to detail goes way beyond what you’d expect. It’s not just about comfort or cleanliness; it’s about hospitality with heart. I can’t recommend this place highly enough.

Staying at citizenM San Francisco Union Square was a fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Union Square, with popular spots like Heytea within easy reach. BART and multiple bus lines are conveniently located nearby, making it super easy to explore the city. I did notice some people experiencing homelessness in the area, but they were non-confrontational and didn’t affect my stay negatively. The hotel itself is sleek and modern, with bright, spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and fast Wi-Fi. It’s a great value for the quality and convenience. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.

This hotel completely exceeded my expectations! Just a short 5-minute walk from Fisherman's Wharf, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the area. The room was spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable bedding and modern amenities. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast—fresh, varied, and satisfying. Plus, there are a 7-Eleven and Trader Joe’s right within walking distance, making it super easy to grab snacks or essentials. The location, comfort, and service all come together perfectly. If you're visiting San Francisco, this is definitely a top choice. Highly recommend!

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.
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