Top reasons to visit Embarcadero
- Scenic Waterfront: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, enjoying stunning views of the Bay Bridge and vibrant city life.
- Ferry Building Marketplace: Savour local delicacies and explore unique shops at this iconic food hub.
- Historic Piers: Visit historic piers, including Pier 39, famous for its lively sea lions and diverse attractions.
- Urban Parks and Art Museums: Experience a rich cultural scene with numerous parks and art venues within the area.
- Varied Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming hostels, catering to all types of travellers.
Find great hotels near Embarcadero
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Embarcadero, San Francisco, from luxurious hotels to inviting resorts. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly stays, business facilities, or proximity to shopping, there's something for every traveller. Explore the renowned Fairmont hotels, unwind at the Seasons at Embarcadero, or consider the vibrant atmosphere of local hostels for a memorable experience by the ocean.
- Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled just 1.6km from Embarcadero, the 4-star Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is ideal for those seeking a beachside escape infused with adventure. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel caters to business travellers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Enjoy direct access to the beach and partake in nearby recreational activities like hiking and biking. The property boasts a vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the iconic waterfront attractions of San Francisco.
- Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Located a mere 644m from Embarcadero, the 4-star Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is an urban haven for pet-friendly travellers and avid shoppers. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel offers essential amenities for both business and leisure, including the convenience of allowing pets on the premises. Guests can enjoy the nearby shopping district, and amenities such as food and water bowls for pets add a welcoming touch for those travelling with furry companions.
- Handlery Union Square Hotel: Situated approximately a mile from Embarcadero, the 3.5-star Handlery Union Square Hotel is a family-friendly retreat that emphasises eco-certification. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it provides a variety of services for children, ensuring a pleasant stay for families. Located in the bustling shopping district, this hotel combines convenience with a commitment to sustainability, making it an appealing choice for eco-conscious travellers looking to explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco.
Where to stay near Embarcadero
Embarcadero, San Francisco, is a vibrant hub perfect for families and business travellers alike. Stroll along the scenic waterfront, taking in stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the bustling atmosphere of downtown. Explore nearby attractions such as the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can savour local delicacies, or enjoy a leisurely walk to the historic Pier 39, known for its lively sea lions and diverse shops. Embrace the urban charm and rich history that surrounds this delightful neighbourhood.
- San Francisco: As a vibrant metropolis, San Francisco is the heart of the Bay Area. Situated at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this iconic city welcomes visitors year-round, with a notable peak from July to September. Here, you can indulge in a family-friendly atmosphere while exploring outdoor parks and urban attractions. Notable landmarks such as the famous Golden Gate Park and the bustling tourist precincts offer a plethora of shopping experiences, educational venues, and sports facilities, ensuring a delightful experience for every traveller.
- Union Square: Located approximately 2km from Embarcadero, Union Square is a lively neighbourhood known for its shopping and entertainment options. The area sees a steady flow of visitors, especially during April and the summer months. This bustling square serves as a hub for family outings and business events, featuring an array of shopping areas and theatres. Local highlights include a vibrant tourist precinct and event venues, perfect for catching a show or enjoying a meal after a day of exploration.
- Fisherman's Wharf: Also situated about 2km from Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf is a charming waterfront neighbourhood that attracts visitors with its unique seaside atmosphere. Popular among families and business travellers alike, this area experiences a surge in visitors during the spring and summer. Known for its shopping centres and lively jetties, Fisherman’s Wharf is home to notable attractions such as the famed Pier 39, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the bay. The local sports facilities and tourist precincts make it an ideal spot for leisure and exploration.
Things to do near Embarcadero
Shopping
At Embarcadero, visit the Ferry Building Marketplace, where artisanal goods and local produce abound. Nearby, the Westfield San Francisco Centre offers a mix of high-street and luxury brands across its multiple levels. Both locations provide a vibrant atmosphere for souvenir shopping while enjoying views of the Bay.
Recreation
The Embarcadero offers a variety of wellness retreats, including yoga sessions overlooking the bay and tranquil spas providing rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, where you can soak in the stunning views and fresh air, creating a perfect environment for relaxation and reflection.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Sonoma Raceway, located 40km from Embarcadero, where you can immerse yourself in high-speed action. Alternatively, visit Simraceway Performance Driving Center, also situated 40km away, to enjoy a range of performance driving experiences that cater to your adventurous spirit.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Embarcadero. Visit the renowned Waterbar for exquisite seafood and cocktails while enjoying stunning views of the Bay Bridge. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Ferry Building Marketplace where you can sample local wines and artisanal snacks in a bustling setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Embarcadero
To save money during your visit to Embarcadero, consider travelling in February or November to December, when accommodation prices are lower. Fridays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options based on your budget and preferences, and consider eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia packages can lead to significant savings. Explore free activities along the waterfront to make the most of your trip without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Embarcadero are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Embarcadero is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Embarcadero is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Embarcadero hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Embarcadero
Embarcadero is an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike, offering a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the scenic waterfront, the iconic Ferry Building, and the bustling Embarcadero Plaza, alongside historic piers and numerous attractions. This vibrant area showcases a variety of urban parks and art museums, making it perfect for those seeking a rich city experience.
- Pier 39: A vibrant jetty offering stunning views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39 is a lively destination filled with shops, restaurants, and entertaining street performers. Don’t miss the resident sea lions basking on the docks, providing a charming and unique spectacle.
- Lombard Street: Known as the crookedest street in the world, Lombard Street features eight steep hairpin turns, lined with beautiful flowers and charming homes. This iconic street showcases the quirky side of San Francisco and offers great photo opportunities.
- Union Square: A bustling hub of shopping, dining, and art, Union Square is surrounded by upscale boutiques and galleries. The lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for people-watching or enjoying a leisurely coffee at one of the many cafés.
Best time to go to Embarcadero
The best time to visit Embarcadero is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Embarcadero
Flying into Embarcadero, San Francisco is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 21km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both offering shuttle services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) lies 63km away, featuring luxurious hotels like the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View and the 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible. For those considering Sacramento International Airport (SMF), located 122km away, notable hotels include the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, which also provide convenient access to the airport.