10 best family-friendly hotels in San Francisco, from Union Square to Japantown

Located in the heart of the city center, with easy walking from Union Square, The LINE scores high on the location score. Amenities include an on-site restaurant – where you can enjoy an all-American breakfast every morning – a fitness center and free bikes for you to use around the city. This four-star, family-friendly hotel also offers room service, free WiFi, and a 24-hour reception – ideal for those late-night snacks or (more likely) early risers.

Family option? Deluxe guest room with two queen beds
Price? $280/£220 
Vibe? Modern but classic

This iconic boutique hotel is nestled between Oracle Park and the Financial District on the edge of San Fran's bay, overlooking the beautiful harbor. Guest rooms at Harbor Court Hotel include iHome sound systems and flatscreen TVs – perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. You’ll also find yoga mats for a moment of mindfulness and high-end bath products for your perusal – or you can hop across to make free use of the YMCA’s indoor pool and workout center. Feeling hungry? Head to the Ozumo Sushi Bar and Robata Grill for a taste of Japanese cuisine for dinner. Yum.

Family option? One full ADA, double bed plus free cots
Price? $184/£141 
Vibe? Waterfront living

Furnished and designed to the nines, The Jay offers a calming respite from the bustling city center on its doorstep. Located in the Financial District and within easy walking distance of Chinatown, the skyline from your window is pretty spectacular. Rooms come complete with flatscreen TVs, free WiFi, and goose-down duvets – perfect for a decent slumber after a day exploring the city. Oh, and the on-site fitness center is ‘state-of-the-art’, so add an early morning workout there if you have time. 

Family option? Jay signature queen with two queen beds
Price? $268/£205 
Vibe? Inner city retreat

Nestled in Japantown, Hotel Kabuki offers guests a stunning blend of Eastern and Western design. On-site dining and drinks are available at The Bar, which serves Japanese whisky, sake, beer, and an array of international snacks. In your room, you’ll find a smart TV with app access, a walk-in shower in the private bathroom, and a mini fridge and coffee machine for those early starts. Oh, and there’s a 24-hour fitness center and laundry services, just in case you need them.

Family option? Double room with two double beds
Price? $273/£209 
Vibe? San Fran meets Japan

Looking for a slightly boujier weekend than most traveling with little ones? The 1 Hotel is the 1 for you – no pun intended. This five-star waterfront hotel offers so much beyond its serenely-designed rooms – like an outdoor rooftop terrace, a 24-hour fitness center, and a spa. And that’s before you get the room – which includes boutique toiletries, plush robes, an ergonomic workstation, and an honor bar. Dreamy indeed.

Family option? Alcove two queen, two large double beds
Price? $408/£312
Vibe? Five-star spa energy

Bringing old-school glamour to the streets of San Fran, the Beacon Grand feels just like a 1920s Prohibition postcard come to life. And that’s exactly what it is. Initially opened in 1928, this historic gem was recently reopened in 2022, maintaining its charm with a little modernization. Aside from the usual in-room amenity suspects, the Beacon offers guests an on-site restaurant and bar, private parking, and a concierge service. In short, stay here for the history. 

Family option? Queen room with two queen beds
Price? $248/£190
Vibe? Historic charm all round

Just steps from Union Square, the Taj Campton Place combines history with modern design to offer guests a four-star experience with brand new restaurant, Bombay Brasserie, and a 24-hour rooftop gym. Yes, really. Guest rooms at the Taj include top-quality sound systems, wistful window seats, and limestone-donned bathrooms, complete with a soaking tub. Keen to know more about the already well-acclaimed restaurant? At the helm is South India native executive chef Thomas George, who has developed a fusion menu that blends Indian cuisine with French technique. Yes, it really is as delicious as it sounds.

Family option? Deluxe double room with two double beds
Price? $308/£236
Vibe? Eclectic elegance

Hop on a shuttle from San Francisco International Airport and get welcomed to a 1920s-era hotel – with all the amenities you could ask for. From complimentary spa toiletries and plush bathrobes to a fitness center, tour desk, and an on-site restaurant, the Omni has it all for an easy family vacay at the bay. Guest rooms include a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and aircon, while local attractions include Chinatown – an easy five-minute walk from the hotel. Ready to explore San Fran? Stay here for the convenience.

Family option? Deluxe double room with two double beds
Price? $208/£159 
Vibe? Timeless elegance

If you’re on the hunt for a super central location in Union Square, look no further than the Galleria Park Hotel. From shopping til you drop to dining at one of many awesome food joints, this hotel puts you right in the heart of the action. Back at the hotel, there’s a rooftop terrace and urban garden to enjoy during some downtime before heading back to your custom-furnished hotel room, complete with an ergonomic workspace, flatscreen TV, a fully stocked honor bar, and an espresso machine. What more could you and the fam ask for?

Family option? Deluxe queen room with two queen beds
Price? $184/£141
Vibe? Location, location, location

Stay downtown at the Hilton San Francisco and enjoy all the perks of staying at the crossroads of Chinatown, North Beach, and the Financial District. The hotel itself has an on-site Cali cuisine restaurant, 750 Restaurant and Bar, while also offering guests an award-winning concierge service, which is ideal for when you need an extra pair of hands with the kids. Inside the room, you’ll find a large work desk – although this may be better for building a fort – an ergonomic chair and a flat-screen TV. The fitness center is open 24 hours, as is reception – so you’ll always have something to do, no matter the time. 

Family option? Double room with two double beds
Price? $171/£131
Vibe? Downtown dreaming