Left your heart in San Francisco? Us too. If you’re fancying a trip to the Golden Gate state, instead of staying at one of the chain hotels you can frequent anywhere, get a real sense for their culture and individuality by staying at a boutique hotel. Popping up all over the Mission and other hip areas, it's the best way to see the city by the Bay for intimate delights, great views and local flavor.
Cavallo Point Lodge
In addition to being a member of Historic Hotels of America, this San Francisco luxury resort was recently name one of the “Top 10 New American Landmarks” by Travel+Leisure and also received LEED Gold Certification for its environmentally sustainable design and construction. With guided hikes under the Golden Gate Bridge, free morning yoga and a cooking school on premise, enjoy healthy living in the California sun as close to the national park as you can possibly get.
601 Murray Circle, Fort Baker, Sausalito, CA. (415) 339-4700. http://www.cavallopoint.com/
Hotel Drisco
The Hotel Drisco combines the sophistication of a small European hotel with the character of an upscale American B&B. Experience the value: complimentary gourmet continental breakfast; complimentary evening wine and cheese reception; complimentary town car service each weekday morning from the hotel to Union Square, and personal tours with a Golden Gate Greeter conveniently located near every part of the city and Bay area from Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square, Golden Gate Park to the Embarcadero, the Marina District to the Castro, and Muir Woods to Mount Tamalpais.
2901 Pacific Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94115. (415) 346.2880. http://www.hoteldrisco.com
Hotel Vitale
Vitality: an “abundant physical and mental energy usually combined with a wholehearted and joyous approach to situations and activities.” At this urban retreat, guests will experience a revitalizing stay, enhanced through Hotel Vitale’s stunning water and city vistas, on-site Spa Vitale with outdoor roof-top soaking tubs and dramatic terraces will help give you fast peace for your fast-paced traveling lifestyle.
8 Mission Street. San Francisco, CA 94105. 415.278.3700. http://www.hotelvitale.com/
Waters Edge
Conveniently situated between San Francisco and wine country, all guestrooms and suites feature wood burning fireplaces nestled on a historic dock. Relax during wine hour with the expansive movie library and calming views of the ocean.
25 Main Street, Tiburon, CA 94920. http://www.marinhotels.com/waters-edge-hotel/waters-edge-hotel-tiburons-only-waterfront-hotel
The Donatello
Inspired by the great Renaissance artist who shares its name, The Donatello is a modern hotel in the heart of San Francisco’s fashionable shopping and theater district by Union Square, with a charming Italian atmosphere and friendly staff.
501 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94102. (888) 732-8021. http://www.shellhospitality.com/hotels/donatello_hotel/