The toughest thing about planning a romantic getaway in the San Francisco Bay Area is deciding where to go. There’s so many choices — from historic hotels to properties with vineyard and ocean views — you might need to plan more than one escape with your sweetheart.
Featured Photo: Hayes Mansion
San Francisco
Beacon Grand
Opened during the Prohibition as the Sir Francis Drake, this completely renovated and renamed version debuted in June 2022 with a bright new design that nevertheless complements its storied heritage. Blackout shades and plush-top, gel-foam mattresses in the 418 rooms help bring sweet dreams in the midst of vibrant Union Square nightlife — including the Starlite Room, the latest incarnation of the late Harry Denton’s hotspot, that reopened as the Starlite in early 2024.
Guests are offered reusable water bottles, and refill stations are available on every floor to reduce single-use plastic waste.
TIP: You can walk to dozens of shops and restaurants, or hop on the cable car for an exhilarating ride to Ghirardelli Square or Fisherman’s Wharf. Fuel up first with fresh pastries in the mezzanine-level Beacon Lounge, then return in the evening for a whiskey, dinner and live music on weekends.
Hotel Nikko
Just off Union Square, a jewel box of a live entertainment supper club is one of the things that makes this hotel an especially attractive destination for a romantic weekend. Intimate and sophisticated, Feinstein’s at the Nikko features top name visiting performers managed in partnership with multi-platinum artist Michael Feinstein. The Japanese-inspired Imperial Club guest rooms have views of San Francisco and elevated amenities like luxurious Subarashi Ame rain showers.
Recipient of a TripAdvisor Green Leader Silver Award.
TIP: Dogs are VIPs on a dedicated floor with its own pet terrace.
Hotel Via
If a roof terrace with fire pits plus a baseball game sounds like a romantic urban stay, this hotel across the street from Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, is a home run. Consider spending a romantic evening under the stars drinking Champagne served with caviar in a cozy, intimate rooftop cabana. Retire to a park view suite or a courtyard room with a private terrace. The gym is open 24/7.
Includes sustainable construction methods, advanced energy management systems, recycling programs, and water-saving laundry practices.
TIP: If you love sports, keep it going with Sunday brunch at Bar VIA.
InterContinental Mark Hopkins
When The Mark Hopkins Hotel opened on December 4, 1926, San Franciscans proclaimed it “architecturally perfect, flawless in its erection, comprehensive in its accommodations.” The hotel was designed by architects Peter Weeks and William P. Day to be a combination of French chateau and Spanish Renaissance, with a tower and outstretched wings that afforded every room a postcard-worthy view. And it has been a romance magnet ever since. Features such as the Top of the Mark restaurant on the 19th floor, which has had many renovations since its days as a cherished memory for soldiers, sailors and airmen going off to war, today it is ideal for that sunset meal with a view.
LEED Gold Certified: Recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council for sustainable operations.
TIP: Features such as the Top of the Mark restaurant on the 19th floor, which has had many renovations since its days as a cherished memory for soldiers, sailors and airmen going off to war, today it is ideal for that sunset meal with a view.
Sutter Mansion
Take a step back in time to a grand historic home, a reminder of 19th century fortunes made in mining gold and silver. This is the city’s only high Victorian residence turned into a five-star hotel. Admire oil paintings hung on panelled walls, chandeliers, rich marble imported from Spain and Italy to complement modern offerings such as Wi-Fi and a gym.
The property is housed in a Victorian mansion that has been beautifully restored into a boutique hotel, preserving architectural heritage and reducing waste from demolition or new construction.
TIP: Luxuriate in butler service and personal touches: a complimentary bottle of wine, welcome treats from the pastry chef, in-room masseuse service, and more.
The Palace Hotel
One look at the sumptuous and classical Garden Court, and it’s clear why this turn-of-the-century hotel is part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection and well-suited to its royal name. Request a king-size canopy-framed bed dressed in luxurious Frette bed linens and bathroom with a deep soaking tub. The fitness center is open 24-hours and the heated indoor swimming pool has a glass-domed ceiling with city views, especially pleasing in the evening.
The hotel is recognized for its sustainable practices, earning certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
TIP: The Pied Piper cocktail bar is named for the enchanting 1909 Maxfield Parrish painting that adorns it.
The St. Regis
This is 21st century luxury with bells and whistles, but without the grandeur of Nob Hill. An enviable location in a historic building places guests in the heart of SoMa, next to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and right above the Museum of the African Diaspora — a quick walk to more museums, Union Square shopping and Yerba Buena Gardens. The recently redesigned rooms with soft gray and cherry tones have feather-top beds and spacious bathrooms; book a suite to avail yourself of free butler services, from unpacking and garment pressing to last-minute shopping.
Listed in both the San Francisco Green Business and California Green Lodging Programs.
TIP: Take advantage of one of three options for refined afternoon tea in the hotel’s Tea Salon, offered by reservation only. Couples may wish to toast romance with the St. Regis Art of Tea for Two, which includes a half-bottle of Moët & Chandon Imperial.
Taj Campton Place
An intimate landmark property in the heart of Union Square, the emphasis is on discreet, impeccable service. Book a spacious, quiet suite — the windows are double paned — and dine in with city views. Or reserve a private booth in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Campton Place. Known for innovative Californian/Indian-inspired cuisine and a sommelier to guide guests through the outstanding wine list, the charming room even provides custom cushions for ladies’ handbags.
EarthCheck Gold Certified: Participates in the EarthCheck program for sustainable operations and community impact.
TIP: Cable cars are a block away, the hotel is pet-friendly and has free Wi-Fi.
North Bay
Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa
From its perch above the Sausalito waterfront, Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa gazes down with patrician elegance, the tall windows taking in the whole of San Francisco Bay. The hotel started life as a Victorian mansion built in 1885, and even with numerous additions it maintains that crooked-pinky feeling. A 2002 addition houses 31 more modern rooms, many of them with private balconies. Tucked amongst the extensive gardens are casitas designed for the utmost privacy. Seaweed wraps and salt scrubs are among the sought-after spa treatments; once you’re suitably relaxed, enjoy a custom cocktail on the roof deck, considered among the best in the North Bay.
CoolCalifornia Climate Leader using green building concepts in a historic setting.
TIP: A member of the Mosaic hotel group, Casa Madrona offers a wealth of amenities including laundry service and an electric car charging station.
The Inn Above Tide
Binoculars in every room and balconies that jut directly over the water are just two of the reasons to stay at The Inn Above Tide, a bayside lodge. The main one is, of course the view, which couldn’t be more spectacular — almost every one of the 31 rooms looks directly out at the city, with Alcatraz and Angel Island in the foreground. Sit on your glass-enclosed balcony and watch the city lights twinkle on, outlining the iconic skyline. The complimentary breakfast is served buffet style in the dining room or delivered to your room, and you’ll also be fêted with a wine and cheese reception every evening from 5 to 7pm.
Individual energy-efficient HVAC, LED lighting and large-format toiletries.
TIPs:
- While there’s no restaurant onsite, that just gives you an excuse to try out a few of Sausalito’s dining establishments starting with Napa Valley Burger Company next door. But Italian is the way to go in Sausalito, whether you prefer Poggio with its old-school classic ambiance or Osteria Divino, which serves its fresh California-inflected Italian dishes to the accompaniment of live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Stay with the Italian theme and finish the night at Bar Bocce, its outdoor terrace glowing with lantern light.
Cavallo Point
Known affectionately by locals as the lodge at the Golden Gate, Cavallo Point is tucked into a sheltered nook in the Marin Headlands that faces south for views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. A broad meadow, once a 10-acre parade grounds for the U.S. Army troops who were stationed here, fronts the property. A large main lodge hosts a full-service restaurant, Murray Circle, and adjoining Farley Bar, complete with a large fireplace to keep the fog’s chill at bay on many a summer’s day. For larger groups, there is over 14,000 feet of indoor event space and room for up to 200 seated guests at sit-down dinners.
Lodging is divided into two styles. Contemporary Lodging, which is built into the hills behind the main lodge, features floor-to-ceiling windows, fireplaces in every room and suite, and radiant heat floors. Historic Lodging is built into the property’s landmark Colonial Revival buildings, the room and suites’ unique details preserved with grace. French doors, Ben Franklin stoves and pressed tin ceilings are some of the details you might find in your room that reflect architectural styles popular in the area as early as 1877.
LEED Gold certified “green practices through every faucet”.
TIP: Families with kids under 12 love Camp Cavallo. Parents can plan a day or a week off knowing that their kids are not only looked after but are also getting the most out of their time at Cavallo Point. Nature hikes and exploration of the region’s history, lawn bowling on the parade grounds and kids bingo are just a sample of what’s available. The Bay Area Discovery Museum is designed for young children and is just steps away.
The Lodge at Bodega Bay
Set on a seven acre stretch along the rugged Sonoma Coast, a majority of the 83 rooms (including five junior suites) at Bodega Bay Lodge come with glorious water views, wood-burning fireplaces, and a balcony or patio. Perfect for beach-combing or kite flying, Doran Beach is just a 10-minute walk from the Lodge.
Take in the sunset while sitting around a fire pit at Drakes Fireside Lounge. Keep your eyes peeled for the spouts of migrating whales as you sip wine or a cocktail and enjoy delicious bites like Brentwood corn bisque and wasabi peas. For those who would rather dine indoors, the menu at Drakes Sonoma Coast highlights seasonal, sustainably farmed produce, meat and seafood from local artisan producers.
The lodge embraces a core green philosophy, focusing on water conservation, energy efficiency, and recycling to minimize environmental impact.
TIP: The heated pool and infinity hot tub have sweeping views of Doran Beach. The spa offers a variety of treatments to pamper couples including a warm shell massage. Complimentary Electra cruiser bicycles are available for those that prefer to explore on two wheels.
Nick's Cove
Located in Marshall, on the east shore of Tomales Bay, Nick’s Cove boasts a dozen irresistible coastal cottages. Five are set on stilts at the water’s edge and seven across Highway 1 with water views, and all were renovated in late 2022. The cottages are the ideal place to happily lose a weekend with fluffy down comforters, wood burning stoves, heated floors and soaking tubs. Barbecued oysters are delivered to every guest’s cottage upon arrival and breakfast is delivered each morning.
Dinner from the on-site restaurant (also renovated along with the cottages) can be enjoyed al fresco on the long pier that reaches over Tomales Bay. Don’t miss the Dungeness crab mac and cheese! There’s a cozy beach shack at the end perfect for enjoying a drink by a roaring fire or watching the sunset.
Nick’s Cove’s renovation features sustainable furniture by GreenRow, using natural fibers and OEKO-TEX® certified textiles inspired by Tomales Bay.
TIP: Nightly bonfires are held on the property’s private beach. Hello s’mores! Nick’s Cove pairs homemade graham crackers and marshmallows with local artisan chocolate. (A portion of every Nick’s Cove s’mores kit is donated to a local educational non-profit.) The property’s immense garden, The Croft, features picnic tables, bocce ball and stunning bay views.
East Bay
The Purple Orchid
When it was completed in 1996, The Purple Orchid was reportedly the largest Lincoln log structure of its kind in the country. Located in Livermore Valley, it offers ten rooms and suites with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and views of beautifully landscaped grounds including olive orchards, gardens and pool with beach-style entrance. Made to order breakfasts can be enjoyed in bed, or outside with a view. Nightly wine, cheese, and olive oil is also included with every stay. The onsite spa offers an array of treatment options including massages and body scrubs, as well as a selection of spa packages for couples.
The resort's restaurant and spa services prioritize locally sourced ingredients and products, supporting regional businesses and reducing carbon footprint.
TIP: A peaceful retreat, The Purple Orchid is surrounded by 24 acres of olive trees. The Wilderness Retreat King Suite is The Purple Orchid’s most popular accommodation for romantic getaways. The suite features sunset views over rolling hills, fireplace, and a tub large enough for two.
The Rose Hotel
When you first step into the lobby at The Rose Hotel, it’s like you’re taking a graceful and elegant step back in time. The grand lobby staircase leads the way to spacious rooms and suites, all with a relaxing mix of old warm charm, modern luxuries, and fresh cut rose. The cozy Fireplace Suite features a king size bed, fireplace, leather lounge sofa, and walk-in shower. The lobby is an intimate space to enjoy a cocktail in the evening, come morning it hosts a complimentary Continental breakfast with smoked salmon, pastries and fresh fruit.
The hotel provides an electric vehicle charging point, supporting sustainable transportation options for guests.
TIP: Located on picturesque Main Street, The Rose Hotel has a European feel with bouquets of roses and a constantly replenished cookie jar. The hotel is an easy stroll to the numerous shops, art galleries and restaurants in downtown Pleasanton. You’ll park your car when you arrive and then happily forget about it.
South Bay
Toll House
Downtown Los Gatos is well-known for its architecture, stylish boutiques and restaurants, and the Toll House hotel is located in the thick of it all. Nestled at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, soft, earth tones complement Craftsman-inspired furnishings in the property’s 115 rooms and suites, ideal for relaxing evenings after days spent wine tasting or playing at the beach. Most accommodations offer balconies or patios with courtyard or mountain views.
Recognized by San Francisco’s Green Business Program for sustainable operations.
TIP: Toll House hotel offers amenities modern travelers crave while holding on to the feel of a small hotel. Select suites feature a fireplace for a cozy stay.
Hayes Mansion San Jose
Originally a family estate that dates backs to the late 1800s, this historic hotel offers guests a long list of reasons to linger longer. Studded with palm trees and green grass, the Hayes Mansion offers 214 guest rooms and suites that seamlessly combine the urban sophistication of the Silicon Valley with a rich legacy. Recently renovated rooms and suites are modern with a regal flair. Depending on the room you reserve, amenities can include hand-carved furniture, deep soaking tubs, marble décor, balconies and a kitchenette.
Awarded the Green Standard Award by the International Association of Conference Centers for eco-friendly operation.
TIP: Lounge by the pool or soak in the hot tub. A popular setting for weddings, expansive outdoor spaces allow couples to find space to call their own throughout the estate. Lush landscapes and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains make a convincing argument there’s no reason to leave the property.
