San Francisco’s world renowned views, incredible eats, and beloved attractions draw in millions of tourists each year with many looking for a unique place to stay. While hotels used to just be a place to catch some shuteye, many visitors are now wanting more. For some, a boutique experience is exactly what they’re looking for – smaller hotels that boast a unique, upscale feel and often include out-of-the-norm amenities. So if that sounds like your jam, we’re here to help you discover your next stay with our guide of the 9 best boutique hotels in San Francisco.
If you’re looking to stay at one of these boutique hotels, but have some time before you visit, keep your eyes peeled for sale prices and amazing deals to help keep your trip budget-friendly!
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The Phoenix Hotel
This infamous boutique Phoenix Hotel has long been a favorite of rock stars visiting the Bay Area. It’s got a crazy cool retro 1950s motor court hotel vibe with 44 gorgeous rooms, a courtyard vintage art-tiled pool, and “Chambers”, the onsite restaurant and bar. Since it opened in the 80s, it’s hosted the likes of Pearl Jam, Joan Jett, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and David Bowie. It’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring your pooch along!
Hotel Drisco
Located in the charming and elevated Pacific Heights neighborhood, this 48 room Edwardian boutique hotel boasts elegant rooms, a delicious complimentary gourmet breakfast, free rental bikes, and a daily evening wine reception. In fact, it’s the top rating boutique hotel in San Fran on Tripadvisor with almost 1500 5-star reviews. The hotel also offers a complimentary daily chauffeur service anywhere within city limits, which is a huge time and money saver if you’re looking to get around to see all the city has to offer. If sophisticated is your thing, this boutique experience is perfect for you, flawlessly meshing historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Hotel Kabuki
Every room in this 48-room newly renovated boutique hotel is designed with both style and comfort in mind using contemporary Japanese design. Just steps from the Fillmore District, Hotel Kabuki has an onsite bar with daily happy hours, a “Small Farms” breakfast bar with local Cali-fresh favorites, and a new restaurant project that pays homage to the generations of women who inspire the in house chef. It also boasts a 24-hour high-tech gym with Peloton spin bikes, water rowing machines, daily group fitness classes, and a meditation garden – named one of Shape Magazine’s best hotel gyms in 2018. You won’t be disappointed you booked this San Francisco boutique hotel option.
Proper Hotel
A flatiron-style building makes Proper Hotel stand out that much more and ensures that every single room has a view. Sit and sip an artisan cocktail in the most beautiful art-filled lobby you’ve ever seen or sign up for one of their complimentary bike rentals. Modern rooms, decorated by American designer Kelly Wearstler, are some of the most gorgeous, unique accommodations in SF and offer luxe amenities such as handmade California beds and the softest Italian bedding.
Get in a good sweat in their fully-loaded fitness center complete with Peloton spin bikes, water rowing machines, and everything else you could possibly need. Afterwards you can grab a table at the Proper Hotel’s second restaurant, Villon, for a full meal or just an afternoon tea sitting. Head to the indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge – called “the height of cool” by Conde Nast Traveler – for incredible views of the city and to sip drinks around a fire with your companions after a day of exploring. Whatever you’re in the mood for, this SF boutique hotel has got you covered.
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The Orchard Hotel
Named one of the “Top 10 Best Eco-Friendly Hotels in the U.S.” by USA Today, The Orchard Hotel is dreamy and sophisticated without feeling stuffy. Rooms are airy, decorated with pops of pastel, and the entire hotel experience is exceptionally environmentally-friendly for guests. In fact, they were one of the first hotels in the city to become LEED certified! The downtown location is superb, located steps from the Powell Street cable car line and Union Square, so if you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel in San Fran is a great option!
Club Donatello
Looking for business accommodations or a couples’ getaway? This Italian-inspired hotel gives off a darker, more masculine vibe with dark wood accents, classic furnishings and warm, color palettes … and complimentary overnight shoe shining! Club Donatello has two dining options on site: The Buon Giorno Breakfast, which is delivered to your room and features Italian coffee and pastries to start your day, and Zingari, which serves up the rustic food of Tuscany with weekend live jazz. If moody is your preference, you’ll absolutely adore this boutique hotel.
Staypineapple Hotel
This newer quirky pineapple-themed San Francisco boutique hotel is the epitome of fun! Staypineapple, located in Union Square, is true to its name with afternoon coffee and signature pineapple cookies, pineapple-accented rooms, and the onsite Pineapple Bistro & Bar. But don’t be fooled, you’re in for some luxury fun with European style bedding, comfy robes, and fluffy oversized towels. They’re also super dog-friendly (they even have an add-on package just for fido!), making it easier than ever to getaway with your pooch!
Inn at the Presidio
This San Francisco boutique inn offers a unique historic stay in the restored Pershing Hall, an elegant home for officers when the Inn was a United States Army post. 17 of the 22 spacious rooms have fireplaces and all are beautifully decorated in a historic-meets-modern artisan style that will leave guests feeling cozy and at-home. Located close to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Presidio is perfect for any vacationer looking for a quiet, comfortable home base while exploring the Bay Area.
Galleria Park
This hotel is a little bit bigger than most boutique hotels, but given its unique look and experiences, we’ve put it on the list. Galleria Park’s downtown location is convenient for exploring the city, but also offers a secret garden terrace if you’re looking to retreat at the end of a busy day. Contemporary rooms are done in a crisp palette of neutrals with texture variance and colorful contemporary art providing bold pops throughout. Plus, each room has an Illy machine so you don’t have to run out for coffee first thing in the morning!
Grab dinner or drinks at Gaspar Brasserie, the onsite French restaurant and bars (yes, there are two!). Head upstairs if you’re feeling a champagne-inspired cocktail or downstairs for a glass of cognac – you might as well since the restaurant has the largest selection in the city. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a great stay at Galleria Park, one of the best San Francisco boutique hotels.
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