Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Del Sol

The proximity of this beach-themed, three-story 1950s motor lodge to Fort Mason, the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Presidio, Crissy Field, and Chestnut Street's munchkin-favored shops already qualify it as kid-friendly, but the toys, games, DVDs, outdoor saltwater heated pool with plenty of inflatable playthings, snow cones on summer weekends, and afternoon cookies and milk make it a real haven for little ones. Because the Del Sol is only two blocks from Union Street shopping and restaurants, with easy access off Lombard Street, this property will please adults, too.

Sometimes the hotel offers parking deals on their website.

room

Rooms feature beach-themed art, blown-glass bedside lamps, a bright orange accent wall, and cream headboards. Some Fodorites have complained about the size, but as long as travelers are aware that the bones of the property were meant to house a motor inn, you'll appreciate the sass and stylishness of their efforts.

bathroom

Bathrooms are small. If you need a tub, request one as many rooms only offer showers.

lobby

Come 3 p.m. and the kids flock to the tiny office area for free cookies. Most of the action centers on the pool area, which on nice days dubs as the lobby.

pool

A fun kitschy space with hammocks, lounge chairs, and beach balls, the saltwater pool is the centerpiece of the property.

gym

Ask the front desk for directions for hiking trails in the nearby Presidio, the running trail along the bay, or just hike up Divisadero Street for epic views.

dining

The hotel offers a small Continental breakfast in the mornings. Expect fruit, pastries, coffee, and tea.

drinking

Two blocks away at the swanky Matrix, order a nightcap and watch the young and the beautiful techies who flock to this neighborhood.