The Hotel Guru
20 Historic Hotels in California

20 Historic Hotels in California

California feels young and fresh, but the years of youth and freshness have accumulated, so that there’s now some serious history to the place. It’s even starting to have its own grande dame hotels, which is where our Hotel Gurus started when putting together their list of recommendations for historic hotels in California. The majority of the state’s grande dames are in San Francisco, a city that wears its earthquake-ridden past clearly on its sleeve, but here they also found some fabulous hotel conversations to add to the list of California’s historic hotels, including a number of converted army barracks, an apartment building in Nob Hill, and a whole warehouse down by Fisherman’s Wharf. The wine countries had some elegant conversions too, including a beautiful Arts and Crafts B&B. Along the coastline they uncovered Spanish Mission architecture, and charming old villas, and they even discovered historic oasis hotels in the rugged interior. So, if you like your accommodation to be able to tell many tales, then this is the place for you!

For Grand and Historic

The Palace Hotel is a feat of architectural elegance in San Francisco’s Financial District. When it was built in 1875 it was seemingly the most luxurious and expensive hotel in the world. There’s nothing quite so impressive as a vast atrium hung with chandeliers, and that’s what the Palace offers, as well as 11 foot ceilings and marble bathrooms in the guest rooms. There’s a superb indoor heated pool, plus a gym and fitness centre, and a good choice of restaurants. This is certainly the sort of place to come for Afternoon Tea.
The Intercontinental Mark Hopkins is a grand old historic hotel on the crest of Nob Hill, overlooking the San Francisco Bay. This is a big hotel, as well as an historic one, with 380+ rooms and suites, so the decor is varied, but treads a line between classical and contemporary, with a fairly gentle colour palette. The best rooms are elegant affairs, with incredible city views. But if you’re not staying in one of those you can enjoy the best view in the house from the 19th floor cocktail bar.

For Age and Style

The Fairmont San Francisco is a landmark, and possibly even and institution. Tony Bennet and pals, have played the Venetian Room, and famous faces have their favourite rooms from among the six hundred odd. The views across the bay are incredible, and even better from the private balcony of your suite, or from the roof terrace bar. The decor remains traditional, but fresh, and is the epitome of elegance and five star charm.

For Historic Surrounds

The Inn at Death Valley is located in one of the least hospitable places on the planet, yet it's like an oasis; its expansive grounds are lush and beautiful, and its elegant fountains suggest plenty of water. Because of the location this inn is sustainably run, so some of the historic features of the original hotel have been modified, but not the beautiful Spanish-looking terraces, or the wonderful wild west-esque bar. The 66 rooms, suites and villas are contemporary and comfortable, and there’s a state-of-the-art spa and sauna and a choice of restaurants.
The Ojai Valley Inn is a stunning five star resort occupying 200 acres of incredible Ojai Valley scenery and surrounded by rugged mountain views. This is a big place, with 200+ rooms, suites and villas, and lots of onsite facilities, including tennis courts, golf courses, art classes and numerous pools, bars and restaurants. Opened in 1923, this property has a legacy of service, but all the modern conveniences.

Historic Seaside Hotels

La Valencia Hotel is an elegant salmon-pink hotel in the Spanish villa style, set just behind a sandy stretch of beach and the Pacific Ocean, to the north of San Diego. There are 112 rooms and suites, comfortably decorated in a traditional, Californian feeling style, and a central pool courtyard. All surrounded by manicured gardens. The restaurant is excellent, and the hotel has been operating since 1926, so the whole enterprise has had time to practice being the perfect host.
The Casa del Mar is a stylish hotel sitting with its toes on the sand of Santa Monica Beach, which can date is origins back to 1929 when it was an exclusive beach club. The 129 rooms and suites have an airy comfort, with lots of light, spa baths, and a theme of white linens against dark wood. The suites are where you’ll find the most interesting objets d’art, and the best views, though most rooms have a pretty special view, and the pool has an idyllic one. Of an evening pop down to La Terraza, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails.

For Old Time Romance

The Francis House is a beautiful, unique house in Calistoga, the region’s only stone built French Second Empire house. The grand exterior is matched inside, with sweeping staircases and an impressive collection of antiques. There are also contemporary luxuries like an elegant outdoor pool and a salt room and sauna. You'll also find a billiards room and a breakfast room, but only five bedrooms. Plus you’re within a short walk of some excellent restaurants.

For Historic San Francisco

Once the residence of US Army Officers, the Cavallo Point Lodge today is a comfortable 142 room hotel, with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. Spacious and contemporary, the 142 rooms and suites have great views too, as does the Murray Circle restaurant and bar. In addition to all the sights and sites of San Francisco, there’s a lot to do here!
The Inn at the Presidio was also previously army officer’s quarters, and is the only accommodation within the Presidio National Park, close to the Golden Gate Bridge. There are 22 rooms, sleek and stylish now, with magical views. There’s no mess or restaurant, but they do offer complimentary wine and cheese between five and seven.
Sister property to the inn above, The Lodge at the Presidio is another barracks turned boutique hotel, and again the location and bridge views are difficult to better. The 42 rooms and suites here are elegant and contemporary, with high ceilings and lots of natural light. The largest suites sleep four, so this is a family friendly pick. There’s no restaurant, but they serve up baked goodies and bagels for breakfast.
The Claremont Club & Spa is a fabulous old, family friendly resort in Berkley, its tallest rooms overlooking the San Francisco Bay. This grand resort style hotel has been welcoming guests since 1915 to its 276 rooms and suites, all spacious, and decorated in a traditional, but stylish way. And there’s an accommodation configuration to suit every family. There’s a beautiful spa and a choice of three huge heated outdoor pools.

For families

Built in 1929 by a banking family, the Stonepine Estate is now an 11 room estate hotel, surrounded by lush gardens and grounds in the Carmel Valley. In addition to accommodation in the main house, there are cottages in the grounds, ideal for families, or anyone needing extra space. There's a beautiful collection of art and antiques, and the formal gardens, plus this hotel has a pool, a restaurant and an equestrian centre.
The all-suite Fairmont Heritage Place Ghiradelli Square is a luxurious pick on San Francisco Bay, housed in a former chocolate factory. Accommodation is in suites of between one and three bedrooms, all designed with stylish minimalism in mind, and almost all of the 53 have superb views of the bay. There’s no restaurant, but you can order into your suite.
In a prime spot near San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, Argonaut has been converted from a fruit canning warehouse originally erected in 1909. So it’s pretty big, and the rooms and suites are spacious, and decorated with a nautical nod. They have complimentary bike hire for guests, and a bar, gym and restaurant.

For Wine Country

The Napa River Inn is part of the old Victorian waterfront complex, and was built in 1844 — to help you imagine it some of the 66 rooms and suites are done up in Victorian style. The best have river views, fireplaces and private balconies. In addition to the charm of the place, the inn has a fabulous, Michelin rated restaurant, and a nightclub. And you’re within a short stroll of 20 different tasting rooms.
Santa Rosa’s Hotel La Rose is a blocky stone building on historic Railroad Square in the centre of town. This is one of the oldest hotels in the Sonoma county, built in 1907, and it boasts lots of really charming period details. The 49 rooms and suites — some of them large enough to accommodate a family — are decorated either in a contemporary style, or a period one, so it’s up to you how much printed wallpaper and chintz you sign up for. All the rooms have brass and marble bathrooms, though.

For Great Value

You needn’t ask when the 1906 Lodge was built, but since then this Spanish style villa on historic Coronado Island has been carefully restored, and updated with the necessary mod. cons. So it’s now an elegant, 17 room boutique hotel in the perfect spot for exploring the island.
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa looks almost like a castle and is one of the grandest example of the Spanish Mission style architecture our Gurus have come across, complete with domes and turrets and latticed windows. The interiors, which include 211 rooms and suites, are a really charming combination of contemporary style and the original features. The facilities are pretty contemporary, though, and include a pool, four restaurants and two bars, a spa offering yoga classes, a steam room, hot tub, nail salon and boutique shopping.
The Scarlet Huntington is a 1920s apartment block atop Nob Hill, turned boutique hotel. The decor is period, with Oriental elements — it’s got a feeling of the film Chinatown to it. The restaurant is casual, but very historic chic, and serves American cuisine, and the hotel’s Nob Hill spa has won several awards. The views and location are excellent, and this is an idea base for San Francisco.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse by location, considering the best places to stay in San Francisco, in Santa Monica, in Carmel-by-the-Sea or in Santa Barbara
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in California
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Claremont Club & Spa Berkeley (California) 276 rooms from £171
  
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  Families  -  With spacious rooms and suites, kids menus, three huge pools and great access to family-friendly attractions
  Restaurant  -  There are two great restaurants ranging from regionally-sourced cuisine to family favourites
  Spa  -  A spa that uses a mix of advanced and natural healing treatments using exquisite products
  Swimming Pool  -  Three outdoor heated pools, whirlpool and complementary lounge chairs and umbrellas
  
  A fabulous family-friendly resort in Berkeley, with incredible views overlooking the San Franciso Bay. Spacious and chic rooms with indulgent bathrooms. Relax and heal in the spa or on a lounger poolside. Fantastic dining options with creative cocktails and fresh local dishes. A has-it-all stay. See More
  
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- Stonepine Estate Carmel Valley 11 rooms from £472
  
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  Riding  -  Once a large thoroughbred breeding facility, the resort's Equestrian Centre now offers riding, lessons, dressage and trail rides
  Hideaway  -  The place for those who don't want to be seen. Tucked away in the hills, there is plenty to do and no need to leave the property
  Country Escape  -  The estate has endless country pursuits; ride, hike, bike, play tennis or croquet on the lawns or simply enjoy the gardens
  Romantic Break  -  The charming hosts can arrange a massage by the pool, a romantic lunch in the grounds or a riverside picnic, just ask
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  A country estate built by a banking family in 1929 turned exclusive inn. 11 rooms and cottages have been inspired and named after Cartier, Taittinger and Wedgewood and are traditionally and elegantly styled. Enjoy the formal gardens, pool, equestrian centre, restaurant and beautiful location. See More
  
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- 1906 Lodge San Diego (Coronado) 17 rooms from £155
  
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  Great walks  -  Coronado Walking Tour- a leisurely guided strolls through this famous playground of Presidents and Princes.
  Sailing  -  Charter a boat from The Aolani Catamaran is San Diego's first private yacht charter company.
  Fishing  -  Go on a sport fishing trip with Action Sports.
  Restrictions on children  -  Children cannot be accommodated.
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  A meticulously restored 1906 Lodge, on the historic Coronado Island. The decor is understated, elegant and modern. This boutique hotel is ideally located for exploring the vibrant Island and is walking distance from all the sites and beaches, yet secluded enough for a romantic getaway. See More
  
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- The Inn at Death Valley Death Valley, California 66 rooms from £336
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Relax with a fully equipped gym, spa and sauna, excellent dining and stylish rooms in truly remote surroundings
  Country Escape  -  Escape to this rural and luxurious outpost in one of America's most remote and tranquil locations
  Back to Nature  -  Far removed from the distractions of city life in the peaceful and starkly beautiful desert
  Spa  -  The Oasis at Death Valley Spa offers a range of massage and wellness therapies
  
  Located in one of the most inhospitable places on the planet, The Inn at Death Valley is anything but. Sustainably run, nestled in a vivid oasis, this luxury hotel boasts a state-of-the-art spa and sauna, a range of restaurants, and family friendly rooms and villas in unforgettable surroundings. See More
  
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- The Francis House Calistoga 5 rooms from £548
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Set in pretty gardens, boasting a lovely pool and the opportunity for massages, plus there's local wines to sample
  Historic  -  Napa Valley's only authentic building of French Second Empire architecture
  Local markets  -  Sample local produce at the Calistoga Farmers Market
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  A unique historic building - the region's only stone built French Second Empire house. The exterior's grand feel continues inside with spacious rooms packed with antiques. Added luxuries include an elegant pool, salt room, sauna, and billiards table. An idyllic spot to simply unwind. See More
  
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- La Valencia Hotel San Diego (California) 112 rooms from £258
  
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  Great walks  -  Windansea Beach offers a great place to take off your shoes and walk in the shallows.
  Sights nearby  -  La Jolla Cove is a stones throw from the hotel and a great spot to catch sunset.
  Surfing  -  Underwater reefs make the surf break on Windansea Beach ideal.
  Diving  -  Diving and swimming at La Jolla Cove is utter paradise.
  
  Old world charm resting in manicured gardens overlooking the expansive Pacific Ocean. Rooms & suites are naturally light and exude comfort. Coastal dining at The Med, European cuisine at the Café la Rue is reason enough to stay. Spa and pool could mean you never want to leave. Idyllic! See More
  
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- Napa River Inn Napa 66 rooms from £194
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Within walking distance of twenty different tasting rooms!
  Sights nearby  -  Only a walk away from Napa Opera House, Uptown Theatre, Quent Cordair Fine Art Gallery...
  Traditional  -  Many of the rooms are done up in Victorian style
  Local markets  -  Just minutes from Oxbow Public Market
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  A waterfront location in the heart of downtown Napa, granting walkabout access to the bustling neighbourhood. The inn provides live entertainment, spa treatments, fine dining, and wine tasting. Old-fashioned decor and charm, and a variety of rooms featuring stunning river views. Michelin rated. See More
  
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- Ojai Valley Inn Ojai 238 rooms from £241
  
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  Swimming Pool - Three enormous outdoor swimming pools
  Secluded setting - For escaping.
  Back to Nature
  Private Hot Tub
  
  A stunning 5* resort. Offers a relaxing retreat overlooking the mountainous surroundings. Beautiful, modern rooms feature a chic and elegant decor, many with private patios. Luxurious pools and gardens. A variety of activities including tennis, hiking, art classes and cocktail making. See More
  
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- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa Riverside 211 rooms from £108
  
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  Spa  -  Features bath suites, nail salon, yoga classes, steam room, hot tub, specially designed treatments...
  Sights nearby  -  Fox Performing Arts Theatre, The Riverside Municipal Auditorium, Downtown Main Street...
  Restaurant  -  Four restaurants and two bars
  Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
  
  A breathtaking castle-like hotel. It features majestic, Spanish Mission-style architecture. The traditional grandeur blends with a modern luxury and style. Outdoor dining is magical, set amongst lush, hanging gardens. It has contemporary, smart rooms, and is located near Riverside's key attractions. See More
  
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- Cavallo Point Lodge Sausalito (California) 142 rooms from £312
  
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  Cooking classes  -  Ask at reception and get into the kitchen with cooking classes for all.
  Kayaking  -  Guided kayak tours under the Golden Gate Bridge.
  Landmark  -  Golden Gate Bridge is a stones throw away.
  Restaurant  -  Modern North Californian cuisine
  
  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. See More
  
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- The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square San Francisco 53 rooms from £613
  
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  Luxury  -  A landmark setting with some seriously indulgent extras including in-suite fine dining and a spoiling spa
  Families  -  With suites that range from 1 - 3 bedrooms this is an ideal choice for a luxury family break
  Sights nearby  -  Take a leisurely stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge and admire the city views
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  
  A luxury all-suite hotel offering a landmark setting on San Francisco's bay. Accommodation ranges from one to three bed suites all designed with stylish minimalism and most with superb bay views. There is no restaurant as such but in-suite fine-dining is a real luxury. A very fine stay. See More
  
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- The Inn at the Presidio San Francisco 22 rooms from £200
  
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  Back to Nature  -  The Presidio has many beautiful nature trails that you can explore by walking, jogging, or cycling, and there are wildlife tours
  City Style  -  Former officers' quarters, the only accommodation in the national park, right by the Golden Gate Bridge.
  Local exploring  -  Close to the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach, Crissy Field, Alcatraz, Treasure Island and other sights.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape
  
  Red-brick hotel and former officer's quarters, the only accommodation in the beautiful Presidio National Park close to the Golden Gate Bridge. The sleek, spacious rooms are stylishly furnished, the top floors have spectacular views. The Park offers many nature trails and other outdoor activities. See More
  
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- Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco (Nob Hill) 382 rooms from £179
  
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  Local exploring  -  Take the cable car to and from the shops of Union Square, the heart of Chinatown, and Polk Street's vibrant nightlife
  Romantic Break  -  The hotel provides various romantic packages for couples special moments such as private dining experiences
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the Gothic-style Grace Cathedral located on the same street
  Restaurant  -  The Nob Hill Club offers a farm-to-table menu
  
  A historic and grand hotel located at the crest of celebrated Nob Hill. Rooms and suites are elegant and classically modern with beige tones and fantastic views of the city. Enjoy sunset cocktails and nightcaps at the 19th-floor bar, relax and indulge in a setting synonymous with San Francisco. See More
  
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- Palace hotel , San Francisco San Francisco 552 rooms from £332
  
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  Local exploring  -  1 block from the Financial District, 3 blocks from Union Sq, & 4 blocks from Moscone Center
  5* Luxury  -  Original architecture, luxurious bedding, expansive headboards, marble bathrooms & many opulent amenities
  Restaurant  -  The Garden Court and Pied Piper Bar & Grill - famous, superb, grand
  Sights nearby  -  Yerba Buena Gardens, Martin Luther King memorial, Chinatown...
  
  A lavish hotel with classically designed architecture. An elitist, rich and stylish look. Gorgeous and smart guest-rooms feature 11-foot high ceilings, marble bathrooms, opulent bedding. Glass domed indoor pool, various dining options and bars. Ideal for spending your city break in true 5* luxury. See More
  
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- Fairmont San Francisco San Francisco 606 rooms from £288
  
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  City Style  -  Somewhat of a city landmark, this hotel does traditional elegance impeccably
  Sights nearby  -  Make a trip out to Alcatraz - both a fascinating place to visit and a great way to admire the city from the sea
  Opulent
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  
  This hotel is a real landmark. It has seen the likes of Tony Bennet sing in the Venetian Room - and it still has that same old-world grandeur. Enjoying spectacular views of the bay (especially good from the suites' terraces) and boasting a design that combines tradition and modern elegance. See More
  
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- The Lodge at the Presidio San Francisco 42 rooms from £245
  
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  Local exploring  -  The nearest stay to the Golden Gate Bridge, shuttles run into San Francisco, and there's 1,500 acres of woodland to explore
  Families  -  A couple of the suites sleep up to four and children will love all the space surrounding the property
  Boutique  -  The exterior is a historic red brick building but interiors are elegant and contemporary
  Great walks  -  Get on your walking shoes and explore the trails that run through the woodlands
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Originally a barracks, turned boutique hotel, offering an unbeatable location beside Golden Gate Bridge and surrounded by Presidio Park. Interiors are elegant and contemporary with high ceilings, sash windows, and clean lines. Expect bagels and baked goods for breakfast. An idyllic stay. See More
  
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- Hotel La Rose Santa Rosa 49 rooms from £116
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Enjoy wine tasting in over three hundred wineries in Sonoma County wine country - just a short drive away
  Local exploring  -  Visit museums, State Parks, wineries, Pacific coastline, unique shops and restaurants...
  Traditional  -  All guestrooms have marble and brass baths and feature period furnishings and dark wood decor
  Full of character  -  Old-fashioned rooms with floral patterns and large, plump beds for comfort
  
  A historic and charming hotel. Full of antique and traditional furnishings with a variety of both modern and old-fashioned rooms. Located on historic Railroad Square, it is surrounded by unique shops and restaurants. Ideal for exploring the local Sonoma county. See More
  
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- Casa del Mar, Santa Monica Santa Monica 129 rooms from £334
  
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  Local exploring  -  Wander down to the Santa Monica pier or into the city, with lots to explore close to the hotel
  Beach Life  -  Set on the seafront in Santa Monica, this hotel makes a great option for a luxury beach break
  Romantic Break  -  The bright and airy suites are perfect for a romantic getaway, with a spa bath in every room
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the neighbouring Santa Monica pier, featuring a classic seafront amusement park and aquarium
  
  This stylish hotel is located on the oceanfront in Santa Monica, California. Airy guestrooms create a luxury Mediterranean feel with white linens against oyster accents and dark wood furniture. Meanwhile, the suites feel homely with eclectic objets d'art. Head to the chic Terrazza for nightly music. See More
  
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- Argonaut San Francisco 252 rooms from £170
  
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  Local exploring  -  Located near Fisherman's Wharf there are museums and markets to explore locally (plus the bay) and great transport links
  Local markets  -  Wander through the sea front market at Fisherman's Wharf
  Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge
  Full of character
  
  Stylish accommodation in a prime location near Fisherman's Wharf. The chic rooms have a distinctly nautical feel and the bathrooms are stocked with luxury Lather® products. The lively restaurant and bar have a laid back feel. Offered at excellent rates, this is a great city base. See More
  
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