We're staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, right off Union Square. I plan to drive to see the sea lions, maybe go to Pt Reyes or Stinson Beach...I guess that means I need a car, right? I'm just wondering because people say don't rent a car in San Fran cuz the parking, etc., is a nightmare...but don't people sightsee? I don't want to take a taxi to see seals! Thanks!

Only rent a car on the days you are going outside the city. Parking is non-existent and outrageously expensive.

You can go to Stinson and Point Reyes the same day. Ideally, one might want to spend a day in each however they are in close proximity to one another up hwy 1.(maybe 20 minutes apart). Depending on where you want to see the sea lions you might need a car for two days. I seem to remember the pups come around February or March and some of the best viewing is docent chaperoned treks along the Sonoma Coast(Goat Rock Beach sticks in my head). You can try calling the visitors' center at Point Reyes National Seashore and see if there are places to "see Seals" other than here and there. (They do pop their heads up from the water along the coast) I also think you might be able to "see" some out near The Cliff House.
Some of the best "viewing" I've had has been at Point Lobos State Park on Hwy 1 in Carmel( south of SF near Monterey for which you will definitely need a car..and if you like Point Reyes you will like Point Lobos). Otherwise skip the car. You will only have to pay $$$ for hotel parking. The public transit system works relatively well and
cabs are readily available. (the cabbies will probably be happy to see more tourists.SF has been hard hit by the drop in the economy and by decreased travel in general).

We so regretted renting a car. The hotel charged a huge amount to let us park a block or so away. Parking was really hard and we were constantly lost (saw interesting parts of the city we didn't plan to). We ended up riding a bus and the cable cars more. We turned in our rental car at the lot where were told to park because it wasn't worth it. Maybe you could rent one for the day and turn it in as easily.

The last time that I syaed in San Francisco it was at the Hotel Monaco near Union Square. There are several car rental agencies right in the area and the concierge at the hotel can hook you up with several that will bring the car right to the hotel. These days parking a car in any major city is expensive and often inconveniet, and San Francisco is one of the worst. And as most posters will tell you, you do not really need a car in the city, it is a very condensed city with great public transportation.

Forget the rental car, take a good pair of walking shoes and use the taxis. Part of the fun in SF is walking around the town. The hills can be rough if you are not in shape but it beats renting a car.

Can one count on good transportation from the airport to hotels? Taxi/Public transportation?

I know I can check with the airport or hotel once I select one, just thought I might add this question to this thread. Thanks.

Happy Trails,
Paul

When I went to SF, there was a shuttle bus (mini van) that picked me up and took me directly to the B&B where I was staying. Its been a few years, so I cant recall what the price but I know I had no trouble getting in and out.
Have a GREAT TIME
PS I agree with everyone else..no need for a car! Lots of public trans, especially your FEET!

Thanks Lois... San Franciso is the beginning of a longer trip, so I guess we will just start it without a car until we leave the city. -Or maybe, just get the car on the last day there, to get to places we didn't have the opportunity to by other means. It does sound like, however, that you can't hop on public transportation at the airport, like you can in, say, Chicago? Hope all is great with you.

Happy Trails,
Paul

I dont remember about public transportation from the airport, if you mean like the subway? There might be buses ( think that is still considered public trans) but, once you get to your hotel you really wont have any trouble getting around.
I went on my own, and live in an area that I have to use a car daily.
It took me a bit of getting used to but after a day or 2 I learned you either use it all or dont get around LOL

If BART ever opens (delayed again) there will be a direct subway from SFO to downtown SF. Until that time I think a previous poster was referring to the Supershuttle which will take you to downtown hotels. I think it now costs $15 per person, and there may be a two person rate. Cab costs approx. $40 with tip. As for car, I live in SF and I join in the recommendation to only rent one if you know you are leaving city for the day so that you can drop it off at rental car agency and avoid cost of parking (anywhere from $25 up for overnight). I think many visitors rent cars for the day or to take an overnight trip, so that is how people sightsee.

Stayed in SF back in July and rented car with no problems. Parked where I wanted and at last count when I left only had 4 tickets. Car rental company went out of business that week! Ain't life grand!

Thanks everybody! I love this forum and all the helpful people in it! What a wonderful avenue of information. I decided if we want or need a car to see sea lions or to tour a bit outside the city we'll rent one for one or two days...no need to get one now for the whole week. Take care everybody and THANKS! Marty

Take a taxi to see seals, or take the cable car to Fisherman's Wharf. One of the piers has a high concentration of seals. But for Pt. Reyes you will need a car, and if you take highway 1, you will be driving by Stinson Beach. But if it's a clear day, I suggest that you go to the top of Mt. Tam on the way, for a magnificent view of the bay.

If possible never rent a car in San
Francisco.Parking is ridiculous and to drive there-forgetaboutit. Public transportation is easy and cheap