Pet-Friendly Hotels in San Francisco: How to Choose the Right Stay for You & Your Pet

San Francisco is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the world. In fact, the city has more dogs than children.

You'll see pups everywhere in the city, from neighborhood cafes to parks. It's one of my favorite parts about living in the city.

That said, choosing the right place to stay with a pet in San Francisco matters more than it does in many other cities. Steep hills, busy sidewalks, limited green space in certain neighborhoods, and varying hotel pet policies will all affect how easy (or stressful) your stay feels.

As a San Francisco local, I know these neighborhoods well, and I regularly revisit them while exploring, filming, and updating my travel guides. I’ve also seen firsthand what it’s like to stay in each part of the city with a pet.

If you want to visit the city with your dog or cat, the neighborhood you choose is often just as important as the hotel itself. Some districts make daily walks and potty breaks easy, while others are best for shorter stays or pets that are familiar and comfortable in an urban setting.

On this page, I'll talk you through what it's like to stay in different areas of San Francisco with your four-legged friend, and then share my top recommendations for each location.

Whether you're looking for something near Fisherman's Wharf, downtown, near the airport, or a more affordable option with easy access to green space, my guide will help you choose a hotel that works best for both you and your pet.

Quick Picks: Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in San Francisco

• Before You Book (Pet Tips)
• Fisherman's Wharf Tips & Hotels
• Downtown & Union Square Tips & Hotels
• Affordable Pet-Friendly Hotels
• Hotels Near SFO
• More Pet Travel Tips

SFTourismTips is made possible by readers like you! If you book through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Learn more.

What Pet Owners Should Know Before Booking a Hotel in San Francisco

San Francisco is very pet-friendly, but it's also hilly, dense, and a very busy urban environment. This means your hotel choice can make a big difference in how easy it is to stay here.

Before you book your hotel, here are a few important things to note.

San Francisco Has Plenty of Green Space

San Francisco is one of the greenest cities in the country, with more than 20% of the city dedicated to parks and open spaces. This means there are plenty of places for your dog to get outside.

The key is how close this green space is to your hotel.

If your pet relies on grass for potty breaks or needs room to move around, staying near the waterfront, the Marina, the Presidio, or certain areas around Fisherman's Wharf can make your daily routine much easier.

Downtown and Union Square are good options for some pets, but staying here often means longer walks to find suitable outdoor space.

Pet Policies Vary More Than You Might Expect

Even among pet-friendly hotels, policies can vary widely. Before booking, make sure to check:

• Weight and size limits
• Whether they allow dogs, cats, or both
• Pet fees (including per night or per stay)
• Whether they allow your pets to be left unattended in the room
• Require paperwork at check-in

Some hotels are very welcoming, and others allow pets, but have some stricter rules.

Elevators, Lobbies, and Foot Traffic Matter

San Francisco hotels, especially the older hotels in Union Square and downtown, often have:

• Busy lobbies
• Narrow hallways
• Frequent elevator use

If your pet is anxious or not used to being around people they don't know, these factors could add stress. In this case, choose a hotel in a less dense area or with easier outdoor access.

Affordable Hotels Are Sometimes Easier

If you think that staying in an affordable hotel is a compromise, that's not always true when traveling with a pet.

These lower-priced hotels often:

• Only have two or three stories
• Allow easier access from the street
• Are located closer to parks and open spaces
• Offer more flexibility for quick potty breaks

These are often a better, more practical choice.

Always Call Ahead - Even if You Already Booked

Pet policies can change, and not all booking platforms show the small print. 

This is why I always recommend calling the hotel directly before you arrive to confirm: 

• Your pet type and size
• Any additional fees
• Room availability for pets with guests
• Rules about leaving pets in the room

By making this quick call before you arrive, you eliminate any surprises upon arrival.

Best Places to Stay in San Francisco With a Pet

In this section, I'm going to walk you through what it's like to stay in each part of San Francisco with a pet. I'll then share some of my recommended pet-friendly hotels for each one.

Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Fisherman’s Wharf (What It’s Like to Stay Here With a Pet)

I think Fisherman's Wharf is one of the easiest and most practical places to stay with a pet. This is especially true for first-time visitors or those traveling with a dog that needs regular outdoor breaks.

These are some of its advantages:

• Flat terrain compared to many other SF neighborhoods
• Wide sidewalks that are easy to navigate with dogs
• Immediate access to the waterfront, which is great for longer walks
• Multiple nearby parks and open areas are within easy walking distance.

I often walk this area early in the morning before the crowds arrive, and it’s one of the calmest waterfront spots in the city for dogs at that hour.

• I would recommend staying here if:
• Your dog needs frequent potty breaks.
• You want easy, mostly flat walking routes.
• You are visiting San Francisco for the first time.
• You prefer having parks and waterfront paths nearby.
• You are staying for a short to mid-length trip.

If you are staying here, I also recommend reviewing my guide on the best things to do in Fisherman's Wharf and checking out the best places to eat in this district. Both will help you plan a wonderful stay with both you and your pet!

Recommended Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Fisherman's Wharf

Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square

Located in the historic Ghirardelli Square, this is one of the most pet-friendly luxury options in San Francisco. It's also an excellent choice if you want space and flexibility while traveling with your pet.

It offers:

• Apartment-style units with separate living and sleeping spaces.
• Kitchens, which make longer stays more comfortable.
• Ability to leave your pet in the room unattended in crates.
• Immediate access to flat waterfront walking routes.

Here are a few details on their pet policy:

• Up to 2 pets allowed: dogs or cats, up to 80 lbs. each.
• $75 per day pet fee
• Service animals are always welcome.

Another thing I love about this hotel is that it's directly across the street from the Maritime National Historic Park. It makes it easy to quickly step outside without having to navigate too many busy streets.

Check availability

Argonaut Hotel

The Argonaut Hotel is another great pet-friendly option in Fisherman's Wharf. It's located right along the waterfront in the historic Cannery building.

It works well because it offers:

• Direct access to waterfront walking paths
• Flat, walkable surroundings
• A notably dog-friendly atmosphere
• No size restrictions for dogs

Their policy highlights:

• Dogs only
• $100 per pet, per stay
• Additional cleaning fees for extended stay
• Dog beds, bowls, treats, and toys provided.

Like the Fairmont Heritage Place, the Argonaut is just across the street from the Maritime National Historical Park, which makes regular walks simple and stress-free.

Check availability

More Pet-Friendly Options in Fisherman's Wharf

Here are a few additional places:

• Hotel Zoe: No size restrictions; $100 per pet, per stay; and a $100 cleaning fee for stays of 7 to 30 days.
• Hotel Zephyr: One dog per room with a $50 flat fee per night. 
• Holiday Inn Express: Accepts dogs 40 pounds or less, maximum two pets per room, $50 per pet, per night.

Check availability at other pet-friendly hotels in Fisherman's Wharf.

Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Union Square & Downtown San Francisco (What It's LIke to Stay Here with a Pet)

Downtown San Francisco and Union Square are great places to stay because they are walkable, centrally located, and close to shopping, restaurants, transit, and nightlife. 

They can also work well with pets, but it's not the easiest option for every animal, so it's important that you know what to expect before you book.

This is what you'll encounter when staying in this area:

• Crowded sidewalks and frequent foot traffic both day and night.
• Limited green space immediately around most hotels.
• Busy lobbies and elevators, especially in the bigger hotels.
• More street noise compared to the waterfront or residential neighborhoods.

I’ve walked this area with dogs during both peak and early-morning hours, and the difference in foot traffic is dramatic.

This area will work best for you if:

• Your pet is already comfortable around crowds and noise.
• You are traveling with a small dog or cat.
• Your stay is short.
• You want to be within walking distance to great restaurants, shops, and transit.

If you are planning to stay here, make sure to also check out my guide for the best things to do in Union Square and my tips on where to eat here. Both will help you plan a more exciting stay in this district.

Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Downtown / Union Square

Galleria Park Hotel

The Galleria Park Hotel is a great option for pet owners staying downtown who want a bit of green space built into their stay.

It's best because:

• Pet rooms are typically located on the same floor as the Park Terrace, a small outdoor garden, and a walking track
• Central downtown location offers slightly easier outdoor access than many nearby hotels
• Calm, boutique-hotel feel compared to larger properties

Pet policy details:

• Dogs and cats are welcome
• $75 per pet, per stay
• Maximum of two pets per room
• Pet beds, bowls, and treats included
• Dogs must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended in the room at any time

St. Mary's Square has green space, and it's just two blocks away. 

Check availability

Hotel Triton

Hotel Triton is one of the more budget-friendly pet-friendly hotels in the Union Square area and a good option if your pet does well in busy settings.

Here is why pet owners love staying here:

• No pet fee for dogs and cats
• Relaxed pet policy compared to other downtown hotels
• Walkable access to Union Square and Chinatown

Details on their pet policy:

• Up to two dogs or cats are allowed
• No weight or breed restrictions

This is also just a block from St. Mary's Square, which has green space.

Check availability

Hotel Abri - Union Square

Hotel Abri offers a comfortable middle ground for travelers who want to stay downtown but don't want to stay at a massive hotel property.

Why I think it works well:

• Smaller, boutique-style hotel
• Central location and close to public transportation

Pet policy details:

• One dog allowed per room
• Up to 60 lbs
• $75 per stay
• Service animals exempt

It's a bit of a walk from this hotel to the green space for your dog. The closest spot is Yerba Buena Gardens, about 4 blocks away.

Check availability

More Pet-Friendly Hotels Around Union Square

These are just a few additional hotels to check out in Union Square.

• Golden Gate Hotel: Boutique hotel (with a resident cat). Pet fee is $25 per night. Maximum of 2 well-behaved pets per room, with a total limit of 40 lbs. Only dogs are allowed, and they must not be left unattended in the room.
• The Barnes San Francisco, Tapestry Collection by Hilton: Pet fee is $75 per night. Maximum weight is 60 lbs.
• The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: One dog allowed per room, up to 40 lbs.

Check availability at other pet-friendly hotels near Union Square.

Affordable Pet-Friendly Hotels in San Francisco

San Francisco is expensive, so I get questions all the time about affordable places to stay with pets. The places below are less than $250 a night for most of the year. I know that isn't cheap, but they are clean and have good pet policies.

• Hotel Del Sol: Marina District allows up to 2 pets under 35 lbs with a $75 flat fee. When you check in, you must sign an agreement.
• Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco: Marina District allows up to two pets per room, a $20 fee per pet, per night, maximum of 40 to 50 lbs. per pet
• Hilton San Francisco Financial District: $75 non-refundable fee, maximum weight 75 lbs., allowed in designated rooms only

Pet-Friendly Hotels Near San Francisco Airport (SFO) (What It's Like to Stay Here with a Pet)

I recommend staying near the airport if you arrive late, are leaving early, or want a really easy first or last night in San Francisco with your pet. 

Hotels near the airport tend to be:

• Quieter than the downtown hotels
• Easier to access by car
• More spread out, with some great walking routes nearby
• Better suited for late-night and early morning walks with your pet

I’ve recommended this area many times for late arrivals, especially for pets that need a quiet first night after flying.

Many airport hotels are located near a fantastic bayfront walking path. It makes the walks so much easier, and it isn't as busy as the city sidewalks.

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport

Located just minutes from SFO in Burlingame, this is one of the most reliable and comfortable pet-friendly hotels near the airport.

Why I like to recommend it:

• Quiet, spacious property compared to downtown hotels
• Easy access to outdoor walking areas
• Simple arrival and departure logistics
• Good option for pets that need a calmer environment

They also have a good pet policy:

• Alert the hotel at least three days ahead of our arrival
• Stay up to 6 nights for $100 per stay; Seven to 30 nights is an additional $100, 30+ nights will be assessed by the hotel
• Only dogs that weigh 50 lbs. or less
• Only two dogs allowed with a combined weight of 75 lbs.

Service animals are welcome at all times and are not subject to the pet policy rules.

Check availability

More Pet-Friendly Hotels Near SFO

• Grand Hyatt at SFO: Dogs only, no cats; 1-6 nights $100, 7 - 30 nights $200; 1 dog 50 lbs., 2 dogs 75 pounds combined
• La Quinta West Millbrae: No more than two dogs or cats allowed, fee may be charged at check-in ($25 per night or up to $75 for your entire stay)
• Residence Inn by Marriott Millbrae Station: Up to 2 pets with a maximum combined weight of 60 lbs, $100 pet fee plus $20 per night

More pet-friendly options near SFO

Additional Tips for Staying in San Francisco with Your Pet

Dog-Friendly Parks Near Popular Hotel Areas

Here are a few great parks near our big hotel districts.

Parks and Green Space Near Fisherman's Wharf

There are several places you can take your dog for a walk in this district. Here are a few green spaces where they can enjoy a grassy area.

• Francisco Park, a new addition to this neighborhood, has an off-leash dog park on Bay between Larkin and Hyde.
• Maritime National Historical Park is right near the waterfront on the western edge of Fisherman's Wharf. It's a great place to take your dog, but they must stay on leash.
• Pier 39 Playground is a green space on the eastern end of the district. It's a big area, but your dog must stay on a leash. It's just to the east of Pier 39.

Parks and Green Space Near Union Square

Union Square doesn't have as much green space, but there are a couple of areas you can take your dog.

• Union Square itself has a small grassy area where your dog can roll around a bit. It's right next to a busy sidewalk, but if they love the grass, this little area is great. They must stay on leash, and there is no fence.
• St. Mary's Square is another space that is just a short walk from the hotels on the north-eastern side of Union Square. This small park has a decent amount of green space for your dog, and it's set above the street. There is no off-leash area, but they can roll around a bit in the grass.
• Yerba Buena Gardens offers plenty of green space. It's a busy area with no off-leash area, but it's great for dogs who love green space.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants, Cafés & Bars

Chances are you're going to want to grab some good San Francisco eats while you're in town, and you won't want to leave your furry friend out.

Not to worry, San Francisco has plenty of cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating. Many of them will even bring your pup a water bowl and maybe even a treat.

• Zazie (Cole Valley)
• Red's Java House (Embarcadero)
• Tony's Napoletana Pizza (North Beach)
• Tacolicious (Mission)

In addition, you'll find a few great dog-friendly bars around town:

• Wipeout Bar and Grill (Fisherman's Wharf)
• Anina (Hayes Valley)
• Park Chalet Coastal Beer Garden (Outer Sunset)

Pet-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do

Many of our top attractions welcome dogs, so Fido won't have to miss out on all the sightseeing! Take your pup for an outing at:

• The Palace of Fine Arts, for a lakeside picnic surrounded by Roman architecture
• Alamo Square, to socialize with other pups across from the famous Painted Ladies
• Twin Peaks, for 360-degree views of the city
• Baker Beach, for time at the ocean (and views of the Golden Gate Bridge, since non-service animals are NOT allowed on the bridge itself)
• Top urban hikes around town, to get all that energy out while discovering some of the city's best-kept secrets

Other Pet-Friendly Parks Around San Francisco

In addition to the parks listed near each of my recommendations for the best pet-friendly hotels in San Francisco, the city offers an amazing array of pet-friendly parks with sections where dogs can run off-leash.

San Francisco Recreation and Parks manages at least three dozen designated dog-play areas spread throughout the city, in both downtown and residential districts, as well as four in Golden Gate Park alone.

Some offer incredible views. Others are new and include play equipment, like the one at UN Plaza/Civic Center.

Popular public parks with designated dog-play areas are Alamo Square and Mission Dolores Park.

If your pup has lots of energy and needs lots of room to run around, consider taking them to one of these fantastic coastal parks:

• Fort Funston near Lake Merced: bluffs, sandy trails, beach, hang-gliding, and beautiful ocean views
• Lands End Off-Leash Beach Area: rugged trails and fantastic views of the Golden Gate Bridge
• Part of Ocean Beach (north end to Stairwell 21): flat and wide, with plenty of room to roam
• Crissy Field designated off-leash beach area: includes a dog water fountain and washing station

Even More SF Action for Your Pets

Want to cover more ground by biking with your furry friend? Do they love to feel the wind in their fur? Use this deal on an all-day bike rental and make sure to contact Bay City Bikes to reserve an additional trailer.

If your dog or cat has their sea legs, take them on a Blue and Gold Fleet cruise, where they are welcome on leash or in an approved carrier. Get your skip-the-line tickets for this pet-friendly 90-minute Escape from The Rock Bay Cruise.

Your four-legged friend can also ride on Muni (buses, light rail, and our historic cable cars!) during non-peak hours, granted you pay for their ticket and you have them contained on your lap or under the seat. For more details, visit the Muni website.

Sports fans will adore Dog Days at Oracle Park for a special SF Giants baseball game where the pups are not only welcome, but get to parade on the field for a pregame costume contest. There are usually one or two per season, and part of the proceeds from these days benefit the SF SPCA.

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