Hotels in Central Waterfront, San Francisco

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Our top choices for Central Waterfront hotels

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport
3.0 star property
25.4 km from Central Waterfront
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (904 reviews)
"Breakfast served every morning and staff was extremely friendly."
United States
Richard
The price is CA $155
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 21 - Mar 22
Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport
2.5 star property
20.5 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,328 reviews)
"The staff is friendly, the room was clean, and the breakfast was wonderful. Would stay there again."
United States
Steven
The price is CA $126
CA $145 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Aloft San Francisco Airport

Aloft San Francisco Airport
3.0 star property
17.2 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,264 reviews)
"Great place! "
United States
Jon
The price is CA $155
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 27 - Feb 28
Aloft San Francisco Airport

SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western

SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western
3.0 star property
16.7 km from Central Waterfront
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (3,066 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
John Aldrane
The price is CA $130
CA $151 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 27 - Feb 28
SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western

The Dylan at SFO

The Dylan at SFO
3.0 star property
17.8 km from Central Waterfront
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,836 reviews)
"great hotel, well designed, comfortable beds, easy access to the bart and aiport"
United States
Alan
The Dylan at SFO

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport West

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport West
3.0 star property
16.4 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,574 reviews)
"Clean room and friendly front desk employees, a great affordable place to stay "
United States
Joel
The price is CA $165
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 7 - Mar 8
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport West

Stanyan Park Hotel

Stanyan Park Hotel
3.0 star property
6 km from Central Waterfront
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"Perfect locatuon, cute clean hotel"
United States
Lori
The price is CA $344
CA $400 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Stanyan Park Hotel

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa
4.0 star property
29.4 km from Central Waterfront
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,012 reviews)
"Very nice, enjoyed my time here"
United States
David
The price is CA $301
CA $330 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa

The Millwood - A Boutique Hotel

The Millwood - A Boutique Hotel
3.0 star property
16.5 km from Central Waterfront
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"room clean was really clean/large, helpful and welcoming staff"
United States
Laurel
The price is CA $170
CA $204 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 7 - Mar 8
The Millwood - A Boutique Hotel

Royal Pacific Motor Inn

Royal Pacific Motor Inn
2.0 star property
Chinatown, 4.8 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Great location and big rooms"
United States
Bonnie
The price is CA $140
CA $165 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Royal Pacific Motor Inn

Gateway Inn & Suites San Francisco SFO Airport

Gateway Inn & Suites San Francisco SFO Airport
2.0 star property
15 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,014 reviews)
"Clean rooms and friendly staff"
United States
Edward
The price is CA $104
CA $126 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Gateway Inn & Suites San Francisco SFO Airport

The Marina Inn on San Francisco Bay

The Marina Inn on San Francisco Bay
3.5 star property
18.7 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,335 reviews)
"staff was amazing hotel could use a renovation but was still perfect for what we needed"
United States
ethan
The Marina Inn on San Francisco Bay

Hotel Aura SFO

Hotel Aura SFO
3.0 star property
15.7 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,598 reviews)
"We’ve stayed here many times and the rooms are clean, staff courteous and helpful, and location great! "
United States
Karen
The price is CA $129
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 28 - Mar 1
Hotel Aura SFO

Hotel Aluxor SFO

Hotel Aluxor SFO
2.5 star property
15.1 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,798 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Stephanie
Hotel Aluxor SFO

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront
3.5 star property
18.8 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,963 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
William
The price is CA $168
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront

Hotel 1550 - SFO Airport

Hotel 1550 - SFO Airport
3.5 star property
16.2 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,075 reviews)
"Courteous staff, good room, quiet, dining options nearby including the excellent Hapa Bistro a block away."
United States
Claude
The price is CA $195
CA $228 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 26 - Feb 27
Hotel 1550 - SFO Airport

Hotel Skye SFO

Hotel Skye SFO
3.0 star property
15.3 km from Central Waterfront
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,662 reviews)
"Staff was so nice, clean rooms "
United States
Samantha
The price is CA $134
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Hotel Skye SFO

DoubleTree by Hilton San Francisco Airport

DoubleTree by Hilton San Francisco Airport
4.0 star property
18.8 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,470 reviews)
"Great hotel "
United States
Jill
The price is CA $142
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
DoubleTree by Hilton San Francisco Airport

Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport by IHG

Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport by IHG
3.5 star property
18.8 km from Central Waterfront
7.8 out of 10, Good, (2,645 reviews)
"Clean room, great staff"
United States
Maximo Guillermo
The price is CA $114
CA $129 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 28 - Mar 1
Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport by IHG

Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront

Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront
4.0 star property
19 km from Central Waterfront
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,939 reviews)
"The room and breakfast was perfect "
United States
Daniel
The price is CA $156
CA $177 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 6 - Mar 7
Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Central Waterfront

Find the best Central Waterfront areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Union Square

Major tourist destination in downtown San Francisco, Union Square boasts shopping, hotels, and theaters. Explore department stores, boutiques, and galleries, or catch a performance at various theaters. Enjoy the Dewey Monument and stunning views from nearby hotels. Easily accessible via cable car lines, buses, and subway systems.

Fisherman's Wharf

Discover Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park in this bustling tourist hotspot. Savor seafood at family-owned restaurants and explore the sea lion colony, while enjoying convenient cable car access.

Downtown San Francisco

Serving as San Francisco's central business district, this area boasts Northern California's two tallest buildings, the Salesforce Tower and Transamerica Pyramid. Explore shopping malls like the Embarcadero Center and enjoy parks such as Sue Biermann Park, all easily accessible via Muni bus and rail lines.

South of Market

From baseball games to top-notch art exhibits, find endless entertainment in one of San Francisco’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.

Nob Hill

Luxury hotels, historic mansions, and Michelin-starred restaurants abound in this upscale area. Explore Union Square shopping district, Grace Cathedral, and the SF Masonic Auditorium for a taste of culture and history.

Top Central Waterfront Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Central Waterfront

Top reasons to visit Central Waterfront

  • Stunning Waterfront Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the iconic city skyline as you stroll along the waterfront.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic parks and hiking trails, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure.
  • Vibrant Shopping Scene: Experience a lively shopping area with diverse options, from local boutiques to popular malls.
  • Cultural Experiences: Engage with local culture through public meetings and local galleries that showcase the community's artistic spirit.
  • Convenient Accommodation: Choose from a variety of hotels and rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay with easy access to attractions.

Find great hotels near Central Waterfront

Discover an array of accommodation options in San Francisco's Central Waterfront, where diverse hotels and resorts cater to all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly spaces, business-oriented facilities, or convenient house rentals, you'll find it all here. Enjoy the added perks of ample parking and spacious living areas, making your stay both comfortable and enjoyable. Central Waterfront promises a memorable experience with easy access to shopping and local attractions.

  • The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: Embrace luxury and business elegance at The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square. This 4.5-star hotel, located 3.2km from Central Waterfront, is perfect for discerning travellers seeking a sophisticated environment. With amenities tailored for business needs, including meeting rooms and conference spaces, this LGBTQIA-welcoming hotel is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring a supportive atmosphere. Guests will appreciate the opulent accommodations and the prime location, steps away from the vibrant energy of Union Square.
  • Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Experience the buzz of city life at Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco, a 4-star lodging option situated 4.8km from Central Waterfront. This hotel embodies a city theme, appealing to shoppers and business travellers alike. Located in the shopping district, it offers convenient access to boutique stores and dining. With multiple meeting rooms, an accessible business centre, and a prime location in the city centre, it's an ideal choice for those looking to blend work and leisure effortlessly.
  • Chancellor Hotel on Union Square: A captivating blend of comfort and convenience awaits at Chancellor Hotel on Union Square. This 3.5-star hotel is positioned 3.2km from Central Waterfront, in the heart of the shopping district. Perfect for visitors who love to explore urban life, the Chancellor offers easy access to local shops and attractions. Its inviting atmosphere and central location make it a favourite among travellers looking to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culture, all while enjoying a relaxing stay.

Where to stay near Central Waterfront

Central Waterfront in San Francisco offers an exciting blend of urban charm and scenic beauty, making it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views while exploring vibrant downtown attractions. This welcoming neighbourhood boasts a friendly atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for both business and leisure. Whether you're strolling along the bay or enjoying waterfront living, Central Waterfront promises an unforgettable travel experience just steps away from the heart of the city.

  • San Francisco: As a vibrant metropolis, San Francisco is a must-visit destination for travellers. Central Waterfront, located within the city, offers a plethora of experiences year-round, with peak visitor numbers during the summer months of June to August. Known for its family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities, San Francisco boasts shopping malls, educational venues, and iconic landmarks like sports facilities and stunning bay views. The city's unique blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty makes it an exciting base for your vacation exploration.
  • Potrero Hill: Just 322m from Central Waterfront, Potrero Hill is a charming neighbourhood that attracts visitors throughout the year. With peak travel seasons in April, July, and September, this area is popular for its sports venues and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and theatres, while the proximity to event conference venues adds a business-friendly charm. The hill itself offers panoramic views of the city skyline, making it a delightful spot for sightseeing and relaxation.
  • Dogpatch: Located a mere 161m from Central Waterfront, Dogpatch is an eclectic neighbourhood known for its artistic vibe and community spirit. With visitor numbers peaking from July to September, this area caters to families and business travellers alike. Enjoy engaging educational experiences, catch a performance at a local theatre, or explore shopping centres. Notable attractions include urban parks and sports facilities, providing a perfect blend of leisure and recreation in this up-and-coming district.

Things to do near Central Waterfront

The Central Waterfront in San Francisco is perfect for family outings, outdoor adventures, and business trips. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant shopping area and a shopping mall, along with scenic hiking trails. Don't miss the chance to explore city parks and take part in public meetings, which offer a taste of local culture. This lively waterfront location promises a memorable experience for all types of travellers.

Shopping

At Ghirardelli Square, enjoy a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping, just 6.4km from Central Waterfront. For wine enthusiasts, Winery Collective offers a delightful selection nearby. Don’t miss Boudin Bakery, famous for its sourdough, also 6.4km away, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Oracle Park offers an energetic atmosphere with stunning views of the bay, perfect for a lively day out. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium hosts captivating performances, immersing you in vibrant entertainment. For a more leisurely experience, the Presidio Golf Course provides a scenic outdoor setting ideal for relaxation and gentle exercise.

Adventure

At Union Square Ice Rink, glide across the ice amidst twinkling lights, creating a magical winter experience. For a scenic trek, explore the Ecology Trail, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty. If you prefer a longer adventure, Perimeter Road offers expansive outdoor vibes perfect for exploration.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Orpheum Theatre, just 3.2km away, for captivating performances. Enjoy a romantic film at Castro Theatre, 4.8km away, or immerse yourself in the sounds of Louise Davies Symphony Hall, also 3.2km away, where culture and family vibes come alive.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Central Waterfront

To save money on your trip to Central Waterfront, consider visiting in February or November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Fridays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter options by budget and combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for additional savings. For affordable public transport, explore options like Muni or BART. Enjoy free activities along the waterfront, like parks and public art, to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Central Waterfront are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Central Waterfront is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Central Waterfront is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Central Waterfront hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Central Waterfront

Central Waterfront in San Francisco is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of culture and urban experiences. Visitors can explore scenic parks, vibrant streets, and local galleries. Don't miss the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, the waterfront edge, and the iconic city skyline, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable vacation filled with family-friendly activities and rich cultural experiences.

  • Moscone Convention Center: This bustling event space is perfect for business meetings and conventions. With its modern design and state-of-the-art facilities, it creates a dynamic atmosphere for networking and collaboration, making it an essential stop for business travellers.
  • Union Square: A vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Union Square is the heart of San Francisco's city life. Enjoy the lively street performances, boutique stores, and numerous cafes while soaking in the urban energy of this iconic square.
  • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: Home to an impressive collection of contemporary artworks, this museum offers a cultural oasis. Explore thought-provoking exhibitions and installations that showcase the creativity and innovation of modern artists.

Best time to go to Central Waterfront

The best time to visit Central Waterfront can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Central Waterfront falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Central Waterfront falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Central Waterfront

Accessing Central Waterfront in San Francisco is convenient via three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 16.1km away, with excellent hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and the Palace Hotel, both 19.3km distant and providing transfer services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is also 16.1km from Central Waterfront, offering nearby accommodations such as the 1 Hotel San Francisco and Claremont Resort & Club, which provide easy airport access. Lastly, San Jose International Airport (SJC), located 59.5km away, features luxurious options like the Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both within 14.5km and easily accessible from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline – this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Central Waterfront hotel for you.
How can I save on a Central Waterfront hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a member. It's free and easy to join, and you can even access member perks too. Just remember to sign in to get our best prices on Central Waterfront hotels. Another way to save is by booking your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can lead to significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Central Waterfront hotel?
Hotel prices in Central Waterfront often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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