Hotel Zephyr
250 Beach St., San Francisco, California 94133, USAWhy We Like It
A playground for adults (and their kiddos as well), this fun new property overlooks Fisherman's Wharf.
Fodor's Expert Review
Directly facing Alcatraz, this former Radisson occupies a city block at Fisherman's Wharf and boasts vast, unobstructed views of the bay and an edgy, yet playful vibe. Fun is on the menu at The Yard, a lively outdoor space filled with giant interactive games and an Airstream slinging snacks.
Tip Avoid sticker shock at their parking rates ($55) and leave the car at home.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Room
Gaze out into the bay through portholes in the contemporary rooms, or watch the sunset over the Golden Gate from your balcony. The youthful allure of the property extends to guest rooms with in-room dart boards, and Samsung Smart TVs with apps for food delivery.
Bathroom
Porthole themed bathrooms include a lighted circle mirror and a matching round sink. Stripes line the walls leading to the tubs with overhead showers.
Lobby
Metal shipping containers act as lobby walls and street signs have been morphed into chairs. Accentuating the industrial look is vibrant 3-D art, best enjoyed from the woven rocking chairs. The heart of the property is The Yard, a landscaped outdoor adult playground with fire pits, giant interactive games and a waterplay area.
Gym
The state-of-the-art fitness center features cardio machines, Pilates balls, and weights. Need inspiration? Check out the Popeye mural to get you to lift one more round.
Dining
In the Yard, the Airstream Camper serves a limited menu for breakfast, lunch and early dinner from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Drinking
Purchase beer and wine at the Camper until 7 p.m.
What's Nearby
Getting Around
Expect expensive parking fees (in a tightly packed garage). Public transportation abounds in this region, with Muni buses and trolleys passing frequently, and the cable car arriving from the west and east. Walkers will appreciate the proximity to Fort Mason, the Marina, North Beach and Chinatown.
Restaurants
Perched atop Fisherman's Wharf, the long-standing Franciscan Restaurant (5-minute walk) slings shellfish platters paired with binoculars to watch for whales crossing under the Golden Gate. In North Beach, line up for thick crust pizza at Tony's Pizzeria Napoletana (10-minute walk).