Stay in a Chic Waterfront Boutique
Even though San Francisco is a quick drive or ferry ride from where I live, I love spending the occasional night in the city. Over the years, I've stayed at dozens of San Francisco hotels, from cozy boutiques to mega-room skyscrapers. A favorite that I return to again and again is the Harbor Court Hotel, located on the waterfront across from the Ferry Building. And yes, the not-so-shabby view pictured above--which you get in many rooms--is one big reason.
Earlier this year, I had a chance to go back to the Harbor Court when my daughter and I were running a race that started near the hotel. Getting there was half the fun--we left the car at home and caught a late afternoon ferry out of Sausalito.
Comfort Zone
Our room in the handsome 1926 brick Spanish Colonial Revival building--originally a YMCA residence--was small but comfortable and stylish. The warm gold walls, big mirrors, high ceilings and streamlined, contemporary decor made it feel larger.
And then there was that view-- the Oakland Bay Bridge stretching to Treasure Island, boats plying the sapphire water and the Embarcadero spread out below.
Polka dots added a little pizazz to the small but clean and attractive bathroom.
Grounds for Approval
With its elegant architecture, grand fireplace and colorful Art Deco-inspired furnishings, the inviting lobby was both sophisticated and playful. Intimate conversation areas and cozy nooks were scattered throughout the spacious room. When we arrived, the evening wine hour was in full swing. But for me, the main event happened later that night: The staff brought out plates of still warm-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies and bottles of ice-cold milk for a bed-time treat.
In the morning, we headed to the lobby for Equator Coffee and tea. And if we weren't already running, we could have tooled around the city on a couple of the complimentary bikes parked by the registration desk.
Neighborhood
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a mecca for foodies. Shops and cafes selling artisan cheese, fine wines, gourmet coffee, local produce and meat, and other treats abound. There are also several full-service restaurants, including the nationally-acclaimed Slanted Door.
Before or after you eat your way through the Ferry Building, take a walk or jog along the scenic Embarcadero. Across the street from the Ferry Building, the open air SF Art Market at Justin Herman Plaza is a fun place to browse. You'll find jewelry, paintings, pottery, clothes and other handmade goods from area artists. During the holiday season, the plaza is also home to an outdoor ice skating rink. For hard-core department store shopping, Union Square and San Francisco Centre are within walking distance or a quick cab, streetcar or BART ride away. And AT&T Park and SOMA attractions such as Yerba Buena Gardens and the Contemporary Jewish Museum are also nearby.
Good to Know
I've always found the hotel staff to be friendly, helpful and efficient. Dogs are welcome at the Harbor Court. If you want to swim a few laps or get in a workout, the hotel offers passes to the neighboring YMCA for $10. And next door on the other side is Ozumo, an excellent Japanese restaurant.
During our last stay, only one elevator was operating, which made the wait for a ride a bit long. We didn't mind hiking the stairs to get to and from our room, but it wouldn't work for everyone.
Vitals
Harbor Court Hotel, 165 Steuart Street, San Francisco, CA 9410; 1-415-882-1300. Rates vary--I got a last-minute AAA rate of $233 (before taxes) on our Bay View Queen Room. But they can run significantly higher and a little lower, too, depending on how busy the hotel is and the time of year. Rates for standard rooms start as low as $135; rates for view rooms start at around $200.