We are staying at the Holiday Inn in Fisherman's Wharf. There are five in our family going on a 10 day cruise, so we have extra bags. Wanting to know what would be the best mode (least expensive) of transportation from the airport to the hotel?

From those who have stayed at this hotel or native SFcans, which of the two buildings (1 on Columbus and the other on Beach) is a better choice? At the end of our 3 night stay, we have to head over to Pier 39 to board the ship.

Given that you have a lot of luggage, I'd suggest you look at SuperShuttle, with the added benefit that you'd probably get a van of your own. For me, SuperShuttle has always worked well from SFO. I don't think the get the extra-person discount when you're being picked up at the airport, but that would be a huge savings, so it's worthwhile to call and ask about it.

Maybe someone local has a better recommendation?

I don't know anything about the hotel, so I can't comment on that.

I think the Supershuttle is something like $15 per person, which would be $75 for a party of five, unless they give a multi party discount. Taking a cab would be cheaper about $40 w/o tip. The least expensive option would be BART to Embarcadero then taking the F streetcar to FW--however, this would be a logistical nightmare with extra baggage.

But would 5 people + luggage fit in a cab? Are there minivan or SUV taxis available at the airport?

Are there minivan or SUV taxis available at the airport?

Yes.

Hit post too early--I have seen vans in taxi line at SFO --may have to wait longer than for regular cab however.

My husband and I had a similar problem- too much luggage to fit in a cab. We spoke to the concierge at our hotel and he called a cab company and requested a van to pick us up. The van was there in less than 5 minutes.