Top Cool Hotels in Vibrant San Francisco

We checked thousands of reviews on and to find the best hotels for your stay
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Quinnton Powell

Updated: 17 March 2024 · 5 min

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, San Francisco holds a magnetic charm that captivates all who set foot in this vibrant city. With its breathtaking landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods, there's no doubt that San Francisco has something for everyone. But what truly sets this city apart is its collection of cool hotels, offering a unique and unforgettable stay that perfectly complements the city's eclectic ambiance.

From the hip and trendy Mission district to the historic charm of Union Square, San Francisco is host to a variety of cool hotels that cater to every taste and preference. Experience the epitome of modern luxury at Hotel Zetta, where captivating artwork and innovative design seamlessly blend with exceptional service. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of Hotel Kabuki, located in the lively heart of Japantown, and indulge in its serene Zen garden and traditional Japanese-inspired amenities.

For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, The Marker, a boutique hotel nestled in the vibrant and artistic neighborhood of Hayes Valley, offers a cool and quirky vibe that perfectly embodies the city's creative spirit. With its lively social spaces and locally curated art installations, The Marker creates a truly immersive and dynamic stay for every guest.

Whichever neighborhood you choose to stay in, San Francisco's cool hotels offer not just a place to rest your head, but a chance to be a part of the city's unique tapestry. From chic design to unparalleled hospitality, these hotels provide an experience that reflects the distinct character of San Francisco, ensuring your visit to the City by the Bay is nothing short of extraordinary. So, come and discover the hidden gems that await you in the cool hotels of San Francisco and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Our Top 10

(Sorted by rating & number of reviews)

1. The St. Regis San Francisco Hotel
2. The Marker San Francisco
3. The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel
4. 1 Hotel San Francisco
5. W San Francisco Hotel
6. Ansonia Hotel San Francisco
7. Fairmont San Francisco Hotel
8. Huntington Hotel
9. The Urban (Adults Only) Hotel
10. 1 Hotel San Francisco

Cool Boutique Hotels San Francisco

Check Availability

San Francisco
Feb 23, 2026 - Feb 24, 2026

The St. Regis San Francisco Hotel

8.9

Good

(85 Reviews)

+ 79 photos
Located in the vibrant SoMa district, The St Regis San Francisco is a haven for luxury enthusiasts. This sleek and modern hotel boasts panoramic views of the city skyline, along with elegant rooms and impeccable service. Guests can unwind at the exclusive Remède Spa, savor exquisite culinary creations at its Michelin-starred restaurant, and enjoy custom-made cocktails at the hotel's stylish lounge. With its unparalleled blend of contemporary design and lavish amenities, The St Regis San Francisco provides an exceptional and cool luxury experience.
Address: 125 Third Street
Rating: Good 8.9 (85 Reviews)
Rooms: 260
Price: From 452$

The Marker San Francisco

7.9

Good

(423 Reviews)

+ 274 photos
Housed within a former historic landmark building, The Marker San Francisco seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary design. This boutique hotel in the vibrant Hayes Valley neighborhood captures the city's artistic spirit and bohemian vibe. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, relax in the inviting lobby lounge, and explore the local shops, galleries, and cafes surrounding the hotel. The Marker's commitment to sustainability and its playful, curated art installations make it a unique and cool choice for travelers seeking a historic stay with a modern twist.
Address: 501 Geary Street
Rating: Good 7.9 (423 Reviews)
Rooms: 208
Price: From 149$

Cool Luxury Hotels San Francisco

Indulge in the lap of luxury at these cool hotels in San Francisco, where opulence meets contemporary elegance. These high-end establishments redefine luxury with their world-class amenities, exceptional service, and breathtaking views of the city. Whether you're seeking a serene oasis or a vibrant cosmopolitan experience, these luxury hotels embody the epitome of sophistication and offer a stay that is nothing short of extraordinary.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel

8.5

Good

(1798 Reviews)

+ 78 photos
For those seeking a truly iconic stay, The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel is a must-visit. Known for its mesmerizing Philippe Starck-designed interiors, this legendary boutique hotel has welcomed artists, writers, and musicians throughout its storied history. The Clift features a renowned Redwood Room bar, showcasing a famous 23-foot-tall antique bar carved from a single redwood tree trunk. With its fusion of vintage elegance and contemporary touches, The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel is a timeless and undeniably cool place to stay in San Francisco.
Address: 495 Geary Street
Rating: Good 8.5 (1798 Reviews)
Rooms: 372
Price: From 148$

1 Hotel San Francisco

8.6

Good

(170 Reviews)

+ 190 photos
Situated along the Embarcadero, Hotel Vitale offers unparalleled waterfront views and a serene ambiance. This boutique hotel features rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and luxurious amenities. Guests can unwind in the rooftop spa, savor exquisite cuisine at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, and bask in the beauty of the bay from the outdoor terrace. With its prime waterfront location and cool, contemporary design, Hotel Vitale provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking a serene and picturesque stay in San Francisco.
Address: 8 Mission Street
Rating: Good 8.6 (170 Reviews)
Rooms: 200
Price: From 324$

Cool Historic Hotels San Francisco

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of San Francisco by choosing to stay at one of these cool historic hotels. With their well-preserved architectural details and a nod to the city's storied past, these hotels offer a unique opportunity to experience the charm and elegance of a bygone era. From Victorian splendor to Art Deco grandeur, these historic gems provide a glimpse into San Francisco's captivating history while offering modern comforts.

W San Francisco Hotel

8.2

Good

(618 Reviews)

+ 110 photos
Located in the vibrant SoMa district, The W San Francisco combines sleek design with a captivating contemporary ambience. Featuring modern furnishings, dynamic artwork, and bold architectural elements, this luxury hotel offers a cool and sophisticated experience. Guests can enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop terrace, indulge in world-class cuisine at the hotel's restaurants, and immerse themselves in the vibrant social scene of the neighborhood. The W San Francisco is a design-driven haven that seamlessly blends style and substance for a truly cool and artistic stay.
Address: 181 3Rd Street
Rating: Good 8.2 (618 Reviews)
Rooms: 411
Price: From 161$

Ansonia Hotel San Francisco

8.4

Good

(1911 Reviews)

+ 36 photos
Situated in the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood of SoMa, USA Hostels San Francisco provides a cool and budget-friendly option for travelers seeking affordability and social experiences. Offering a range of shared and private rooms, this hostel features a lively common area, a fully equipped kitchen, and organized events such as pub crawls and walking tours. With its friendly staff and convenient location near public transportation, USA Hostels San Francisco delivers an authentic and vibrant hostel experience for budget-conscious travelers.
Address: 711 Post Street
Rating: Good 8.4 (1911 Reviews)
Rooms: 76
Price: From 90$

Cool Budget-Friendly Hotels San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco doesn't mean breaking the bank, as the city is home to some cool and budget-friendly hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a memorable stay. While these accommodations may be more affordable, they still provide a range of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. From cozy guesthouses to trendy hostels, these budget-friendly options allow travelers to explore San Francisco on a limited budget without compromising on style or comfort.

Fairmont San Francisco Hotel

8.0

Good

(1037 Reviews)

+ 647 photos
Perched atop Nob Hill, The Fairmont San Francisco is a true icon of the city. This grand dame of luxury hotels offers a timeless elegance and world-class service. With its stunning architecture, including the historic Main Building and the modern Tower, The Fairmont boasts breathtaking views of the city and bay from its opulent guestrooms. Guests can indulge in fine dining, relax in the spa, and experience the historic Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, a beloved San Francisco institution. The Fairmont San Francisco effortlessly combines classic luxury with a cool and captivating ambiance.
Address: 950 Mason Street
Rating: Good 8.0 (1037 Reviews)
Rooms: 591
Price: From 342$

Huntington Hotel

8.9

Good

(730 Reviews)

+ 139 photos
Located in the prestigious Nob Hill neighborhood, The Huntington Hotel is a historic gem that offers old-world charm and breathtaking views of the city. With its elegant rooms, regal furnishings, and attentive service, this hotel exudes a sense of refined luxury. Guests can savor fine dining at the renowned Big 4 restaurant, relax at the spa, and take in panoramic vistas from the Top of the Mark rooftop lounge. The Huntington Hotel allows guests to step back in time and experience San Francisco's rich history in a cool and sophisticated setting.
Address: 1075 California Street
Rating: Good 8.9 (730 Reviews)
Rooms: 134
Price: From 236$

Cool Waterfront Hotels San Francisco

Embrace the beauty and charm of San Francisco's stunning waterfront with a stay at one of these cool hotels. Offering breathtaking views of the bay and easy access to iconic attractions, these waterfront accommodations provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city while capturing the essence of San Francisco's maritime culture. From luxury establishments to boutique gems, these hotels offer a unique experience that combines waterfront allure with cool urban sophistication.

The Urban (Adults Only) Hotel

7.9

Good

(1741 Reviews)

+ 22 photos
Located in the center of the vibrant Tenderloin district, The Urban offers stylish and affordable accommodation in a prime location. The hotel's modern and minimalist design creates a cool and contemporary ambiance. Guests can stay in cozy private rooms or vibrant shared dormitories, enjoy complimentary breakfast, and relax in the cozy common areas. The Urban's central location allows guests to explore San Francisco's eclectic neighborhoods and easily access popular attractions, making it a budget-friendly and cool choice for travelers.
Address: 507 Bush Street
Rating: Good 7.9 (1741 Reviews)
Rooms: 53
Price: From 104$

1 Hotel San Francisco

8.6

Good

(170 Reviews)

+ 190 photos
Situated along the vibrant Embarcadero waterfront, Hotel Vitale offers a truly serene escape from the bustling city. With its sleek and modern interiors, this boutique hotel exudes sophistication and elegance. Guests can unwind in the beautiful rooftop spa, indulge in farm-to-table dining at its acclaimed restaurant, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the bay from their spacious rooms. Hotel Vitale's commitment to sustainability and wellness makes it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking a cool and environmentally-friendly stay in San Francisco.
Address: 8 Mission Street
Rating: Good 8.6 (170 Reviews)
Rooms: 200
Price: From 324$

Cool Design Hotels San Francisco

Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the world of art and design with a stay at one of these cool hotels in San Francisco. Showcasing cutting-edge architecture, contemporary design, and thought-provoking artwork, these design-centric accommodations provide a unique and immersive experience for art enthusiasts and design aficionados. From sleek and modern establishments to those inspired by local culture, these hotels serve as canvases for creativity and offer a cool and artistic stay in the city.