Sausalito is located north of San Francisco. This city is known for its public parks and playgrounds, beaches, and fishing pier. Going on free city tours on foot and visiting Marine Mammal Center where admission is free are some of the best things to do in Sausalito. Moreover, it has a community of houseboats numbering more than 400 — a close-knit community residing on docks in the north. Some houseboats are designed by prominent architects. It also has an ungated marina and a boardwalk with eateries and shops. Best of all, the city offers many spots to view the San Francisco skyline. Make your trip highly comfortable by dwelling in one of the top places to stay in Sausalito. If you’re ready for a cozy getaway, read our list of the best hotels in Sausalito, California.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 11, 2024.
1. Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa (from USD 309)
Located in the downtown area, this four-star hotel offers lavish rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings and Victorian touches. For a real treat, book one of the mansion suites or hillside cottage suites. They come with a gourmet kitchen, a spacious balcony with views of the bay, and a private hot tub.
The boardwalk and yacht harbor are nearby, and you’d find many dining options around the hotel. To explore farther, the ferry is within walking distance. After a day spent exploring, retreat back to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing massage or an oceanic bliss wrap at the full-service spa on site. It also has a bistro-style restaurant offering Italian cuisine.
Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa
Address: 801 Bridgeway
4.14 km (2.6 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
2. Hotel Sausalito (from USD 175)
Reasonable pricing for a historic boutique hotel in a prime waterfront location.
Charming decor, clean rooms, and convenient parking with in and out privileges.
Perfect location in the heart of Sausalito, steps away from the ferry terminal and close to shops and restaurants.
Numerous excellent restaurants nearby, although the hotel itself does not offer breakfast or a bar.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Sausalito, why not stay in a hotel that carries its name? Hotel Sausalito in El Portal is an eclectic boutique hotel with walls featuring a local artist’s renderings of Impressionist masterpieces. It has 14 air-conditioned rooms with antique furnishings and huge Victorian windows that allow plenty of natural light. Most of the rooms come with a whirlpool tub, while the two suites on-site come with a balcony offering stunning views of the Bay.
There’s free wireless internet access, and a 24-hour front desk to attend to your every need. Aside from excellent restaurants, galleries, and shops, the immediate vicinity is teeming with hiking and biking trails.
Hotel Sausalito
Address: 16 El Portal
4.01 km (2.5 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
Nearby hotels
3. Mill Valley Inn (from USD 309)
Situated at the foot of Mt. Tamalpais, Mill Valley Inn will have you spoiled in no time with gorgeous views. It will only take an approximately 15-minute car ride from downtown Sausalito to the cozy property. For its rooms, you can choose among the wide array of accommodations, including options with a fireplace and a balcony. Depending on the room, you can also enjoy striking views of redwood trees or the town center. Meanwhile, free WiFi is available throughout the premises.
Your palate will indulge in a daily continental breakfast and a free evening wine reception should you stay here. Moreover, your four-legged furry friends are welcome to stay with you as the hotel is pet friendly.
Mill Valley Inn
Address: 165 Throckmorton Avenue
11.37 km (7.1 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
4. Muir Woods Lodge (from USD 99)
Great value for the location and amenities offered.
Clean and comfortable rooms with modern facilities like fridge and microwave. Easy parking and convenient access to nearby attractions.
Conveniently located near major roadways and attractions like San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Sausalito. Close to dining options and public transit.
While breakfast is not included, there are nearby dining options and a well-equipped room with a fridge and microwave for convenience.
Muir Woods Lodge is roughly 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from Sausalito proper. You’ll spot it along Shoreline Highway, offering a unique countryside ambiance in a coastal setting. The rooms have snug beds, cable TV, and a seating area. Complimentary WiFi is available to keep you in touch with life back home.
You’ll also benefit from free parking if you’re arriving by car. For snacks, you can grab some tasty bites at the vending machines on-site. Or perhaps head over to one of the nearby restaurants for a filling meal. Some attractions close to this affordable hotel near Sausalito include George Rocky Graham Park and Bothin Marsh Preserve.
Muir Woods Lodge
Address: 155 Shoreline Highway
7.67 km (4.8 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
5. Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel (from USD 219)
This four-star hotel pays homage to San Fran’s maritime history with a daring fusion of nautical decor and red brick. Argonaut Hotel incorporates eco-friendly practices, and offer modern rooms and suites with spectacular vistas of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. For an authentic experience, enjoy local seafood and California wine at the in-house restaurant, The Blue Mermaid.
You can treat yourself to an in-room massage at an additional charge, or tone up at the fitness center. For those who prefer to explore, the hotel is close to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum, Wax Museum, Pier 39 shopping center, and a short walk from the USS Pampanito, which is a WWII Balao Class Fleet Submarine and floating museum.
Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel
Address: 495 Jefferson Street
5.27 km (3.3 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
6. Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Downtown/Van Ness Ave (from USD 189)
If you want to stay close to the action, then Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Downtown/Van Ness Ave is perfect for you. This early 20th-century hotel is close to Union Square, Pacific Heights, and Nob Hill. It boasts contemporary facilities and bathrooms that are decorated with colorful tiles. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art cardio equipment.
While restaurants dot the surrounding streets, the hotel’s Mel’s Kitchen offers flavorful variety. You can spend the day lounging in your air-conditioned room in front of the 40-inch LED screen. Or, you can drive to Fisherman’s Wharf nearby, and check out crab stalls and souvenir shops.
Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Downtown/Van Ness Ave
Address: 1050 Van Ness Avenue
6.32 km (4.0 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
7. Fairmont San Francisco (from USD 320)
Nob Hill’s mansions, Michelin-star restaurants, Huntington Park, and Gothic cathedral make it one of the most prominent neighborhoods in San Francisco. Fairmont San Francisco is a landmark hotel in Nob Hill, known as the only hotel in the city where three cable car lines meet.
Guest rooms with high ceilings and marble bathrooms are fitted with the latest technology to make your stay seamless and comfortable. Impeccable service awaits guests in all 606 guest rooms. Look out the windows and enjoy expansive views of San Francisco Bay. If you’re in need of some pampering, the on-site health club comes with a sauna, a gym, and a spa offering a range of wellness treatments. This near-Sausalito accommodation’s signature space? Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, which is a tiki lounge featuring Polynesian-fusion fare and a live band.
Fairmont San Francisco
Address: 950 Mason Street
6.68 km (4.2 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
8. The Lodge at Tiburon (from USD 200)
High prices for standard rooms, additional resort fee
Complimentary bike rental, wine, pool, hot tub, free parking, free bikes
Great location in Tiburon, walking distance to shops, restaurants, and waterfront, easy ferry ride to San Francisco
Excellent restaurant, delicious food, but pricey, limited menu, gluten-free options available
Nestled on the tip of the Tiburon peninsula, this three-story hotel stands out with its craftsman-style architecture. Only the mesmerizing views will take your attention away from the gorgeous interiors and grounds. Modern rooms feature a work desk and ergonomic chairs, while suites have a kitchenette and a living room.
For leisure and fitness, there’s an outdoor heated pool, a whirlpool spa, and a gym. For dinner, be sure to book a table at Tiburon Tavern, which serves coastal fare and has a self-serving wine bar, or check out SkyDeck outdoor lounge overlooking Marin County. Adventurers can head out to Muir Woods, go kayaking, or embark on a sailing adventure.
The Lodge at Tiburon
Address: 1651 Tiburon Boulevard
6.36 km (4.0 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
9. Acqua Hotel, Mill Valley (from USD 229)
Reasonable pricing, especially for the area.
Fabulous amenities including complimentary breakfast, evening wine and cheese, and homemade cookies. Free bikes for exploring the area.
Perfect location for visiting Sausalito, the Presidio, and San Francisco. Beautiful views of the water and easy access to restaurants and shopping.
Extensive breakfast options, delicious hot homemade cookies, and a coffee bar. Evening wine and cheese reception with a great variety.
The City of Mill Valley in Marin County is a cultural hub, nestled on the foot of Mount Tamalpais. The city’s village feel is exemplified best by Acqua Hotel. If you want to splash out, book the suite with a terrace — you can take in the mountain views from here and enjoy a relaxing soak in the bathtub.
This hotel is a top choice if you prefer to explore the surrounding areas; it is within driving distance of Sausalito and San Francisco. A tasty buffet breakfast is included in the booking. Ask the staff about the best time to visit Muir Wood National Monument, which is a 15-minute drive away.
Acqua Hotel
Address: 555 Redwood Highway
8.31 km (5.2 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
10. Waters Edge, Tiburon (from USD 319)
Tiburon is a town on a peninsula in Marin County, about 16.1 km (10 mi) from the Golden Gate Bridge. Waters Edge is a boutique hotel located on Tiburon’s Main Street, near the ferry port. The hotel stands on a historic dock. Guests have the luxury of sitting on a balcony while contemplating the northern California coastline day and night.
Book a room with a fireplace and start the day with a hearty breakfast that can also be served in your room. But don’t linger too long. There’s a wonderful spot waiting for you on the back deck. There’s also an evening reception with wine, so bring something dressy, and meet new friends.
Waters Edge
Address: 25 Main Street
6.23 km (3.9 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
11. Best Western Corte Madera Inn (from USD 161)
Best Western Corte Madera Inn is nestled on beautiful grounds near Muir Woods. It offers well-appointed rooms and suites, some of which come with a private balcony overlooking the town. Guests can spend their downtime by hanging out by the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, working up a sweat in the fitness center, or playing a game of basketball, ping-pong or shuffleboard. Fancy exploring Corte Madera? Take advantage of the local shuttle service on offer.
Best Western Corte Madera Inn
Address: 56 Madera Boulevard
12.72 km (8.0 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
12. Courtyard by Marriott Fishermans Wharf, San Francisco (from USD 259)
Courtyard by Marriott Fishermans Wharf on Beach Street takes you away from the crowd but a short walk away from Hyde Street Cable Car and the bayfront. Pier 39 is only 10 minutes’ away on foot. All the rooms come with a fridge, a seating area, a cable TV, free WiFi, and a coffee maker.
If you’re in a hurry in the morning, there’s a snack shop that is always open. If there’s time for a full breakfast, sit down at the Bistro. There’s also a fitness center on site, should you wish keep up with your workout routine on vacation.
Courtyard by Marriott Fishermans Wharf
Address: 580 Beach Street
5.45 km (3.4 mi) from Golden Gate Bridge
Explore the laid-back city of Sausalito
Marin County, north of San Francisco, is a great place for travelers who want to see California’s northern coast from different vantage points. Check out these best places to stay in Sausalito and nearby towns and cities for commanding views of the Bay Area.
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