Traveling with a furry friend is one of life’s great joys, and the City by the Bay rolls out the welcome mat like nowhere else. I’ve spent years exploring San Francisco with my own dogs, and I can tell you that finding the right pet friendly hotels in san francisco is the secret to a stress-free vacation.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious penthouse suite for your pampered pup or a budget-friendly inn for your road-trip cat, this city has a place for you. In this guide, I’ll share my firsthand expertise and insider knowledge to help you find the perfect home away from home for both you and your four-legged family member.
What to Look for in Pet Friendly Accommodations
Before we dive into the best hotels, let’s talk about what makes a stay great. When I book a room, I always look beyond just the "pets allowed" checkbox. The best accommodations for travelers with pets offer thoughtful amenities. This might include designated pet relief areas on-site (a lifesaver for early mornings and late nights), nearby walking paths, and in-room perks like bowls, mats, and treats.
I also pay close attention to the fine print—specifically the pet fees and restrictions in SF hotels—to ensure there are no surprises at check-in.
Why Travelers Choose San Francisco for Pet-Friendly Hotels
Travelers choose San Francisco for pet-friendly hotels because the city blends urban energy with outdoor freedom. From waterfront walks along Crissy Field to the iconic views near the Golden Gate Bridge, visitors can explore with their dogs by their side. Many neighborhoods offer pet-welcoming cafés, parks, and boutique stays that provide beds, treats, and concierge recommendations for nearby trails.
The city’s mild climate makes year-round travel comfortable for pets, while public transportation and walkable streets simplify getting around. Whether guests seek luxury suites or budget-friendly inns, options are plentiful and accommodating. In San Francisco, hospitality extends beyond people, ensuring four-legged companions feel just as welcome. This inclusive atmosphere makes every trip memorable for owners and pets alike across the city.
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Top-Rated Pet Friendly Hotels in San Francisco
I’ve personally vetted and stayed at many of these properties, and I’m confident recommending them to my readers. Based on my experience and recent 2025 updates, here are some of the best pet friendly hotels in san francisco for different types of travelers.
Luxury Pet Friendly Hotels in San Francisco
If you and your pet are used to the finer things in life, you’ll be thrilled with the upscale options available.
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco
In my opinion, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco sets the gold standard for luxury. I once stayed here with my anxious rescue dog, and the staff’s compassion was incredible. They didn’t just allow him; they doted on him. Two pets up to 15 lbs are welcome for no additional fee, which is a fantastic perk at this level.
There’s a grassy pet relief area about two blocks away around Union Square, and the staff is happy to point you in the right direction . For a truly pampered experience, the Four Seasons is unbeatable.
The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Another icon of hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco, treats your pet like royalty. They offer plush pet beds and a dedicated menu for in-room dining. Located at 600 Stockton Street, its Nob Hill location is perfect for quiet, sophisticated strolls. It’s one of those places where the service is so seamless, you forget you’re in a hotel and not at home .
San Francisco Proper Hotel
For those who love design-forward spaces, the San Francisco Proper Hotel is a masterpiece. Interior designer Kelly Wearstler’s vision creates a warm, romantic atmosphere that you and your pet will love exploring. They allow up to two dogs under 35lbs for a fee of $100 per dog per stay, and they provide food and water bowls in the room . Plus, being a member of Design Hotels, it offers a unique, boutique feel right in the Mid-Market area.
Best Mid-Range and Boutique Pet Friendly Options
You don’t need to break the bank for a fantastic pet-inclusive stay. These mid-range options offer incredible value and charm.
Kimpton Hotels (Alton Hotel and Hotel Enso)
I have to give a special shout-out to Kimpton hotels. Their brand-wide philosophy is that pets are always welcome, and they mean it. There are no additional pet fees, no weight limits, and no breed restrictions.
- Kimpton Alton Hotel: Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, this is perfect for tourists. They provide water bowls and waste bags, and you’re steps away from the bay .
- Kimpton Hotel Enso: Nestled in Japantown, this hotel offers a serene escape. My cat actually prefers this one because it’s quieter! They even have treats at the front desk .
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Right on Union Square, Hotel Nikko San Francisco is a fantastic choice. They go above and beyond with their "Pet Pride Package," which includes a stay on their VIP (Very Important Pet) Floor, complete with food and water bowls, a doggie bed, and access to an outdoor Pet Terrace with a dog run and stunning city views. The regular fee is $65 per night, but the package often waives it . It’s a concrete example of a hotel that truly understands what pet owners need.
The Laurel Inn
Located in the lovely Presidio Heights neighborhood, The Laurel Inn feels more like an apartment than a hotel. I love the spacious, apartment-style rooms that give everyone room to spread out. The best part is its location—it’s just five blocks from the Presidio National Park, offering miles of hiking trails right at your doorstep. They welcome dogs of any weight with a $25 per night fee, and provide dog beds, food and water bowls, and a personalized welcome .
Argonaut Hotel
A historic hotel in a prime spot at Fisherman’s Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel is a personal favorite for its playful, nautical theme. Their pet policy is one of the most generous I’ve seen: they welcome pets under 200 lbs (yes, you read that right) for free. They offer free perks like dog beds in various sizes, food and water bowls, and treats. Being right next to the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park means endless walking opportunities .
Navigating Pet Fees and Restrictions
Understanding the costs is a huge part of planning. I always advise fellow pet parents to read the fine print carefully to find the perfect balance of price and perks.
Common Pet Policies and What They Mean
Fees can vary wildly. Some hotels charge a flat, non-refundable fee per stay, like the Galleria Park Hotel or Axiom Hotel, which charge a $75 fee per stay . Others, like Hotel Nikko, charge a nightly fee of around $65 . Some charge a smaller nightly fee, like The Laurel Inn and Phoenix Hotel at $25. There are also weight restrictions to consider. The Four Seasons has a 15-25 lb limit , while the Argonaut welcomes large breeds up to 200 lbs .
Tips for Avoiding Hidden Fees
My number one tip? Always call the hotel directly. Don’t just rely on third-party booking sites. Speaking with the front desk can clarify the total cost and sometimes even unlock unpublished deals. Ask about their specific policies on leaving pets unattended, as this is a common rule. For example, at Hotel Nikko, dogs must never be left unattended , while Hotel Zelos allows well-behaved pets to be left alone .
Finding Service Animal Friendly Hotels
It’s crucial to know the difference between a pet and a service animal. Under the ADA, service animal friendly hotels are legally required to accommodate guests with disabilities and their service animals. Unlike pets, service animals are not considered pets, and hotels cannot charge pet fees or deposits for them.
In my experience, hotels in San Francisco are very well-trained on this. The San Francisco Proper Hotel, for example, explicitly states on its website that Service Animals are welcome without a fee or documentation . When traveling with a service animal, you should never be asked about the nature of your disability.
But staff may ask two questions: Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and what work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
The Hunt for No Pet Fee Hotels in San Francisco
Saving money on pet fees means more to spend on treats and toys, right? Finding no pet fee hotels in San Francisco is like striking gold.
The true champions here are the Kimpton hotels, like the Kimpton Alton Hotel and Kimpton Hotel Enso, which famously have no additional pet fees . This is a huge savings, especially for longer stays.
Other great options include the Argonaut Hotel and, surprisingly, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, which also welcomes small pets with no extra fee . The Hotel Triton (with a 40lb weight limit) and the Phoenix Hotel (with a small nightly fee) are also excellent, budget-conscious choices .
When I’m searching for a deal, I often look for "pet packages." As we saw with Hotel Nikko, their "Pet Pride Package" sometimes waives the standard pet fee, making a stay at a luxury hotel much more affordable . It always pays to check the "offers" or "specials" section of a hotel’s website.
| Hotel Name | Neighborhood | Pet Policy & Fees | Standout Pet Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimpton Alton Hotel | Fisherman's Wharf | No fee | Water bowls, waste bags |
| Argonaut Hotel | Fisherman's Wharf | No fee (pets under 200 lbs) | Dog beds (various sizes), bowls, treats |
| Four Seasons Hotel SF | Union Square | No fee (pets under 15 lbs) | Grassy relief area nearby |
| Hotel Nikko SF | Union Square | $65 nightly fee | VIP Pet Floor, outdoor Pet Terrace |
| The Laurel Inn | Presidio Heights | $25 nightly fee | Proximity to Presidio Park, dog beds, bowls |
| San Francisco Proper Hotel | Mid-Market | $100 per stay (dogs under 35 lbs) | Food and water bowls |
Expert Tips for a Paws-itively Perfect Stay
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make hotel stays smoother for everyone. Here’s my expert advice:
- Pack a "Pet Go-Bag": Just like you have a suitcase, pack one for your pet. Include their regular food, a favorite toy or blanket that smells like home, a leash, waste bags, and any medications.
- Request a Ground Floor Room: If your pet is nervous or you have an older dog who needs frequent potty breaks, a ground floor room near an exit is a game-changer.
- Scope Out the Vet: Before you travel, I always make a mental note (or save on my phone) the location of the nearest 24-hour veterinary clinic. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
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Wrapping Up Your San Francisco Adventure
Choosing the right place to stay doesn't have to be stressful. Whether you prioritize luxury, location, or finding a no pet fee hotel in San Francisco, this city has a spot for you. I hope my personal experiences and insights help you and your furry friend have an unforgettable trip. Remember to book directly, ask about current packages, and most importantly, enjoy exploring this beautiful city together. Happy travels
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best luxury pet friendly hotels in San Francisco?
In my experience, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco are top-tier for luxury. They offer exceptional service, plush pet amenities, and prime locations . The San Francisco Proper Hotel is also a fantastic luxury boutique option with a unique design aesthetic .
Are there any hotels in San Francisco that don't charge a pet fee?
Yes, absolutely! Kimpton Hotels (like the Kimpton Alton Hotel and Kimpton Hotel Enso) are famous for having no pet fees . The Argonaut Hotel also welcomes pets for free , and the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco has no additional fee for small pets .
Can I leave my dog alone in the hotel room while I go out?
It depends entirely on the hotel's policy. Some hotels, like Hotel Nikko and Hotel Triton, strictly forbid leaving pets unattended . Others, like Hotel Zelos, allow well-behaved pets to be left alone . Always confirm this with the front desk at check-in.
What is the difference between a pet policy and a service animal policy?
This is an important distinction. Service animals (typically dogs) are trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. Under the ADA, they are not considered pets. Therefore, service animal friendly hotels must allow them in all public areas and cannot charge pet fees. Hotels may ask what task the animal is trained to perform but cannot request documentation or a deposit . Standard pets are covered by the hotel's pet policy, which may include fees and restrictions.
Which neighborhoods are most convenient for dog owners?
I personally love the Marina and Cow Hollow areas for their flat streets and proximity to the Marina Green. Fisherman’s Wharf is also great because of its flat terrain and access to the waterfront . For nature lovers, hotels near the Presidio or Golden Gate Park, like The Laurel Inn, are unbeatable .
