The best hotels in Sausalito

The Gables Inn

Sausalito (California)

This historic inn was the first in Sausalito; having undergone a recent renovation, the hotel now offers luxury amenities in a heritage style. Unwind with plush carpet underfoot by your wood-burning fireplace before soaking in a private spa bath. Book the Bay Room for romantic views; a charming inn.

  • City Style - Set in a historic property close to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, this hotel has lots of local Sausalito style
  • Romantic Break - Couples love the heritage details at this hotel; book a luxury suite for a fireplace and beautiful bay views
  • Local exploring - Located close to the main Bay Area attractions, this hotel is the perfect base for local exploring
  • Sights nearby - Visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, one of the Bay Area's most famous landmarks
from $295 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Book for less on Snaptrip

The Inn above Tide

Sausalito (California)

Panoramic San Fran views at the intimate and contemporary boutique on Sausalito waterfront. Large, light rooms are as much about the view as their modern, luxury interiors. Complimentary breakfast on the balcony, or head to the restaurants and cafes stones throw away. A dream romantic city getaway

  • Birdwatching - Take a picnic from the hotel and go into the wilderness to see the many species of birds of the region.
  • Sights nearby - The Golden Gate Bridge is 5 minutes away as well as in the views of the hotel.
  • Wine tasting - Napa and Sonoma wine country are half an hour north and worth a visit.
  • Sailing - Head to Sausalito Yacht Club for a days sailing.
from $385 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Casa Madrona

Sausalito (California)

Stunning Victorian mansion overlooking the marina. Rooms are light, modern and boast private balconies. Poggio Trattoria dishes up daily changing Italian dishes with locally sourced produce and homegrown vegetables. Spend days unwinding in the spa; an ideal city escape.

  • Great walks - Take long walks through the Muir Woods and along the Marin Headlands.
  • Sailing - Spend a day sailing with the Sausalito Yacht Club.
  • Tennis Court - The nearby tennis club has everything you need.
  • Total relaxation - Indulge in the spoiling spa.
from $397 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Book for less on Snaptrip

Cavallo Point Lodge

Sausalito (California)

Formerly the residence of the U.S Army Officers, spacious contemporary rooms have views of the green hillside or San Francisco's skyline. Spa and pool for relaxation and the Murray Circle restaurant offers a taster menu for those who want to try it all. Loads of activities and a great location.

  • Cooking classes - Ask at reception and get into the kitchen with cooking classes for all.
  • Kayaking - Guided kayak tours under the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Local exploring - In the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
  • Landmark - Golden Gate Bridge is a stones throw away.
from $544 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Book for less on Snaptrip

About Sausalito

Just over the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Sausalito is a lovely little waterfront town with colourful houseboats, a pretty marina, independent shops and lovely views across the bay. It's a popular day trip from the city, but we'd recommend staying a night or two and taking the time to discover welcoming boutiques and eateries, as well as great galleries. Opportunities to sail and kayak on San Francisco Bay abound, too.

What are the best hotels in Sausalito?

Sausalito promises some lovely places to stay, including cosy heritage inns as well as smart waterfront hotels. Cavallo Point Lodge is our top pick, with its historic buildings, beautiful setting beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, lovely restaurant and indulgent spa. For a more intimate stay, The Inn above Tide is another great choice, with fabulous views from its waterfront rooms.

There's a lovely laid-back feel to Sausalito, and much of the fun is simply wandering around the waterfront, watching the boats come and go and stopping for a bite to eat. Bridgeway is the main street, lined with boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants, while the houseboats in the marina are well worth a look. You can hire a kayak, head out on a sailing trip or hop on the ferry to San Francisco. For some of the best views of the city and Golden Gate Bridge, make your way to Vista Point. Nearby, Fort Baker is great for a wander, and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has some scenic walking trails. Families should also make time for the Bay Area Discovery Museum.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Sausalito or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in California.

Emily's top tip: The Marin Headlands area, within easy reach of Sausalito, promises stunning scenery and plenty of wildlife. The Tennessee Valley trail is a family favourite; there are more challenging routes, too.  

The Best Places to Stay in Sausalito

For a Heritage Inn

  • The Gables Inn was Sausalito's first bed and breakfast and still has plenty of old-world charm. Set in a lovely historic building, its individually styled rooms feature cosy fireplaces, big comfortable beds and indulgent spa baths, with some offering pretty views across the bay. The romantic Bay Room is particularly worth booking for its lovely outlook. A charming, intimate place to stay with lots of character and a little slice of Sausalito history.

For Waterfront Chic

  • Casa Madrona is a renovated Victorian mansion overlooking the marina. Light, modern rooms boast private bay-facing balconies, there's a soothing spa and the Poggio Trattoria has a daily-changing menu of Italian dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Very swish.
  • The Inn above Tide promises panoramic San Francisco views from its pretty perch on the Sausalito waterfront. Crisp, contemporary rooms offer glorious sea views, and complimentary balcony breakfasts are a real treat. A sleek, design-minded getaway with bicycles for exploring, and plenty of bars & eateries within easy reach. For well-heeled travellers.

For a Luxury Lodge

  • Cavallo Point Lodge sits at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, offering a luxurious selection of rooms and suites, originally built for U.S Army officers. There's now an indulgent spa, swimming pool and terrific restaurant, as well as access to heaps of the area's top activities. A gorgeous lodge for couples or families looking to kick back in style, between undulating green hillsides and the towering city skyline.

For an Apartment or Holiday Cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to San Francisco International Airport or to Oakland International Airport, and travel to Sausalito by car or bus.
  • California is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September for the warmest weather, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C. The San Francisco area has a mild climate, with cool, wet winters and dry summers.

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