One of America’s most iconic landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge, has long been a symbol of San Francisco. Opened in 1937, it spans 1.7 miles and includes 746-foot towers, with sidewalks open to pedestrians and cyclists who can enjoy a magnificent view of the bay and the Pacific.
If you’d like to stay in a hotel that will put you in close proximity to this iconic landmark, you’ll want to consider finding a hotel in the Marina District, which stretches between the Presidio and Fisherman’s Wharf, or in Pacific Heights, Richmond District, and perhaps even Japantown. The fabulous properties listed below are all within four miles of the famous bridge, ensuring you easy access.
Inn at the Presidio
The Inn at the Presidio is a historic boutique hotel )and one of the best boutique hotels in the city) that sits near the base of the Golden Gate Bridge in the Presidio, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It was once used by army officers, but today it serves as an urban oasis for those who want to explore the city and perhaps even take a stroll across the bridge. Many walking and hiking trails can be accessed nearby too. There are few options closer than this to the bridge, and after a day on your feet, you’ll have a comfortable spot to return to, including a patio that’s perfect for unwinding, complete with a view of the bridge. Rooms and suites include Heavenly Enchanted EuroTop beds by Restonic, well-stocked minibars, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs with on-demand movies, and robes and slippers. Guests can also enjoy free daily continental breakfasts and wine and cheese receptions.
Hotel Drisco
Hotel Drisco tends to attract many returning guests, as well as honeymooners, thanks to its ideal location in the affluent neighborhood of Pacific Heights, close to the edge of the Presidio and just a short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers upscale accommodation in extra spacious rooms with large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, minifridges, robes, and even Sound + Sleep devices to help you get a good night’s rest. Book a suite for even more space with its separate living room. Rates include a complimentary breakfast and an evening reception with free wine and hors d’oeuvres. Plus, there’s a small fitness center on-site, and bike rentals are free.
Hotel Kabuki
Hotel Kabuki is located in Japantown right next to Japan Center and its many inexpensive eateries and shops that sell Japanese items like bonsai trees, cat-themed items, and antiques. Yet, it’s just a 10-minute drive to the entrance of the Golden Gate Bridge. Here, you’ll enjoy a zen place to stay with Japanese-style decor and some wonderfully tranquil outdoor spaces, including a garden, a Japanese koi pond, and a fire pit. The lobby bar offers sake, Japanese whisky, beer, and cocktails, along with Japanese-inspired dishes and light bites. There’s a fitness center and yoga classes, while rooms include floor-to-ceiling windows, 55″ flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, capsule coffeemakers, minifridges, and Bluetooth-enabled alarm clocks.
Hotel Del Sol
A colorful retro motor lodge dating back to the 1950s, Hotel Del Sol is located in the posh Marina District and includes a heated outdoor pool, patio furniture, hammocks, and soaring palm trees, providing a fabulous spot to relax after a day of exploring. It’s just over a 5-minute drive from the hotel to the bridge or Pier 39, and there are a variety of rooms to choose from, including Cabana Rooms with pool views and Family Rooms with two trundle beds. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and writing desks. This pet-friendly San Francisco hotel means you can bring your pup too.
My Rose Garden Guest Rooms
An upscale B&B hotel set in a 1911 home along a residential street in the Richmond District’s Lake Street neighborhood, My Rose Garden Guest Rooms tends to receive rave reviews for its location, comfort, and friendly staff. It’s just a few minutes on foot to Presidio Park and includes only four guest rooms, all of which are unique and come with free, fast Wi-Fi. One has a deck with a BBQ grill and views of the treetops, while another has a canopy bed. You’ll enjoy a free hot breakfast every morning in the dining room and will have access to the shared kitchen, lounge, and courtyard with its lovely rose bushes.
Infinity Hotel San Francisco
Located just steps from the shopping and dining in the Marina District and just over 5 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, Infinity Hotel San Francisco is a hotel with friendly staff and simple but clean and comfortable rooms. All come with free Wi-Fi, minifridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. You’ll enjoy an amazing view from the rooftop deck, while a coffee shop with delicious breakfast food is next door.
Cavallo Point – the Lodge at the Golden Gate
Located just across the bridge from San Francisco in the Sausalito State Park, the historic Cavallo Point offers some of the world’s most stunning views from a hotel, with the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge in sight. It was initially built as an army base in the 19th century and has retained many period details in its main buildings and the Historic Rooms, once officers’ residences. The Contemporary Rooms are nestled into the hillside, featuring gas fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and fantastic views. The grounds include a spa with fire pits and a pool, an on-site cooking school, and a restaurant serving tasty regional fare.
Marina Motel
The Marina Motel is a mission-style hotel run by the same family for nearly a century. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Presidio Park, providing easy access to the bridge, while the Marina District’s shops and eateries are just a block away. Great for budget-minded travelers or those looking for an extended stay hotel who want to bring their furry friends, it has dog-friendly rooms and an on-site dog run with an artificial lawn and clean-up bags. Free garage parking is available while rooms are bright and include amenities like coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, desks, and free Wi-Fi. Family rooms and suites are available, some of which have full kitchens.
The Laurel Inn
Just five blocks from Presidio Park in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, The Laurel Inn is a boutique property with sweeping views of the city. Its stylish rooms have more of an urban studio apartment feel, complete with kitchenettes. All are stylish and include free Wi-Fi, minifridges, flat-screen TVs, and Blu-ray players. Bathrooms include shower/tub combos, toiletries, and robes. Guests also have access to a continuous supply of brewed coffee, newspapers, and afternoon cookies and lemonade. There’s a simple breakfast served daily, and you have the bar/lounge for unwinding with a drink.
Chelsea Inn
Just a 5-minute drive from the Presidio and slightly further to the bridge, Chelsea Inn is located on Lombard Street, surrounded by shops and restaurants in the Marina District, providing a prime spot for budget travelers. There isn’t a pool or much of anything else when it comes to amenities, but if you’re looking for a bargain with rare free garage parking, it’s a great choice. The Victorian-style hotel includes basic but clean rooms with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, and air conditioning.
