Hotels in South San Francisco

Discover the Hidden Castle: South San Francisco's Enchanting Charm and Coastal Wonders

Discover South San Francisco, a hidden gem nestled just south of the iconic city of San Francisco. Known as the Industrial City, it offers a blend of charming neighborhoods and lush parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the captivating skyline views from Sign Hill Park, or take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant downtown area filled with local eateries and shops. Don’t miss the breathtaking vistas from the nearby Bay Trail or the lively atmosphere at Fisherman's Wharf, just a short drive away. South San Francisco invites you to experience its unique charm and welcoming spirit. For the best hotel rates in South San Francisco and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in South San Francisco

Some of the best places to stay in South San Francisco are Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf and South of Market. South San Francisco, California, offers diverse attractions for travelers. Downtown San Francisco is vibrant and ideal for first-time visitors, featuring iconic landmarks. Fisherman's Wharf is famous for its seafood and waterfront views, perfect for leisurely strolls. South of Market is a hub for trendy bars and art galleries. Accommodations vary from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels, ensuring comfort for couples and families alike. Whether you seek a cozy Comfort Inn or upscale stays, there's something for everyone. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in South San Francisco:

1. Downtown San FranciscoOpens in a new window: A vibrant hub for families and business travelers, Downtown San Francisco offers proximity to major attractions like Pier 39 and the Moscone Convention Center. The area is perfect for those who want to explore the city's historic sites and enjoy sports events at the Chase Center. Notable hotels include Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San FranciscoOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star property in a historic building, ideal for families and business travelers, featuring amenities like conference space and child-friendly services. Another option is Fairmont San FranciscoOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, offering adventure activities and comprehensive business facilities, including a 24-hour business center. Lastly, The Ritz-Carlton, San FranciscoOpens in a new window is a luxurious choice with multiple meeting rooms and family amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
2. Fisherman's WharfOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Fisherman's Wharf is bustling with attractions like Pier 39 and is close to the Moscone Convention Center. This area is perfect for travelers who enjoy shopping and waterfront views. Consider Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli SquareOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel with beach access, ideal for families and business travelers, offering essential business amenities. Alternatively, Kimpton Alton Fisherman's Wharf, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel located in a shopping district, accommodating pets and providing luxury amenities. For a romantic getaway, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts CollectionOpens in a new window offers a blend of business services and romance packages for couples.
3. South of MarketOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for families and business travelers looking to explore San Francisco's tech scene. South of Market is home to key venues like the Moscone Convention Center and Chase Center. Home2 Suites by Hilton Alameda Oakland AirportOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel catering to business travelers and pet owners, featuring accessible business amenities. Another great option is Holiday Inn & Suites Oakland Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, which offers family-friendly services and business facilities. Finally, Hilton Garden Inn Oakland / San LeandroOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that combines family amenities with a central city location, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

What to do in South San Francisco

Three days in South San Francisco offers travelers a chance to explore stunning coastal views, lush parks, and rolling hills. Enjoy activities like hiking through serene forests, boating along picturesque waters, and indulging in shopping and sightseeing for a perfect blend of nature and urban charm. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to South San Francisco:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at San Bruno Mountain State Park, where breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay await. Explore the park’s trails, which offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy panoramic vistas. After a refreshing hike, make your way to San Bruno Mountain for a unique perspective of the area. Spend some time soaking in the serene environment before heading to the San Francisco Bay, where you can relax by the water, watch the boats sail, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
• Day 2: Start your day at Pier 39, a lively waterfront marketplace filled with shops, restaurants, and sea lions basking in the sun. After indulging in some delicious breakfast, stroll over to Lombard Street and take in the famous crooked street with its picturesque gardens and charming homes. Wrap up your day by visiting the 450 Sutter Building, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city from the observation deck, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Golden Gate Park, where you can explore its lush landscapes, gardens, and museums. Don’t miss the California Academy of Sciences for a fascinating experience. Next, make your way to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where you can walk or bike across for incredible views of the bay and city skyline. Conclude your day at the Presidio of San Francisco, where you can relax in the park’s natural beauty and enjoy its historical significance, making for a perfect end to your San Francisco experience.

5 tips to find a great South San Francisco hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit South San Francisco on a budget is during February, November, and December when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure lower fares. To fully appreciate the city's main attractions, which include the iconic South San Francisco's skyline and the scenic views from the nearby hills, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. This way, you can enjoy a great value for your money while exploring all that this charming destination has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the hunt for last-minute deals to South San Francisco, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches, along with options for refundable accommodations. Don't forget to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to catch flash sales and exclusive promotions that can help you snag great deals and save money on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in South San Francisco.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in South San Francisco is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses, light rail, BART, and taxis to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in South San Francisco. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in South San Francisco

Here are some top-rated dishes in South San Francisco, California, United States of America:

• Burrito: A staple of Californian cuisine, the burrito here is often filled with a mix of flavorful ingredients like marinated meats, fresh vegetables, and zesty salsas, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Many local taquerias offer a variety of options, allowing for personalization to suit your taste.
• Clam Chowder: This creamy soup is a must-try, especially at waterfront restaurants. Made with fresh clams, potatoes, and seasonings, it's often served in a sourdough bread bowl, adding a delightful twist to the traditional dish and making it a perfect meal for any time of day.
• Tacos: South San Francisco boasts a vibrant taco scene, with food trucks and eateries offering an array of options. From classic carne asada to innovative veggie tacos, each dish reflects the local love for bold flavors and fresh ingredients.

Best time to go to South San Francisco

South San Francisco experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 52.2°F (11.2°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C). December is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in South San Francisco, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.