Sausalito, a picturesque town nestled along the northern shores of San Francisco Bay, is a dream destination for travelers seeking a serene yet vibrant escape. With its stunning views, charming streets, and easy access to San Francisco, Sausalito has become a popular spot for weekend getaways and longer vacations. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference in your experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best hotels in Sausalito, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.
Why Stay in Sausalito?
Before diving into the hotel options, it’s worth noting why Sausalito is such a sought-after destination. This small town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, artistic flair, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, boutique shopping, art galleries, and easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sailing. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline are breathtaking, making Sausalito a perfect base for exploring the Bay Area.
What to Look for in a Sausalito Hotel
When selecting a hotel in Sausalito, there are several factors to consider:
- Location: Proximity to the waterfront, restaurants, and attractions is key.
- Views: Many hotels offer stunning views of the bay, Golden Gate Bridge, or San Francisco skyline.
- Amenities: Look for features such as complimentary breakfast, spa services, and on-site dining.
- Price: Sausalito offers a range of accommodations, from luxury to budget-friendly.
Now, let’s dive into the best hotels Sausalito has to offer.
1. Cavallo Point Lodge
Overview
Cavallo Point Lodge is the epitome of luxury and relaxation in Sausalito. Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, this historic lodge offers breathtaking views, top-notch amenities, and a peaceful setting that feels a world away from the bustling city across the bay.
Highlights
- Location: Situated in Fort Baker, Cavallo Point Lodge is surrounded by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, offering easy access to hiking trails and stunning views of the bridge.
- Rooms: The lodge features both historic and contemporary rooms, each designed with comfort and style in mind. Many rooms offer fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private balconies with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, complimentary yoga classes, and fine dining at Murray Circle Restaurant, which showcases seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.
- Sustainability: Cavallo Point Lodge is committed to sustainability, with eco-friendly practices throughout the property, including solar power and water conservation initiatives.
Why Stay Here?
If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat that offers both relaxation and adventure, Cavallo Point Lodge is an excellent choice. The combination of its stunning location, historic charm, and modern amenities make it one of the best hotels in Sausalito.
Book on Expedia
Book Cavallo Point Lodge on Expedia
2. Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa
Overview
Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa is a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. Perched on a hillside overlooking the bay, this hotel offers some of the best views in Sausalito, along with top-notch spa services and personalized experiences.
Highlights
- Location: Casa Madrona is located in the heart of Sausalito, just steps from the waterfront, shops, and restaurants. The hotel’s hillside location provides stunning views of the marina and San Francisco skyline.
- Rooms: The hotel offers a range of accommodations, from cozy hillside cottages to luxurious suites. The Alexandrite Suite, in particular, is a standout with its expansive terrace, outdoor hot tub, and panoramic views.
- Spa: The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The spa’s serene setting makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
- History: Casa Madrona is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the hotel’s history is reflected in its beautifully restored Victorian architecture.
Why Stay Here?
For travelers seeking a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat, Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa offers the perfect blend of luxury, history, and scenic beauty. The personalized service and intimate setting make it an ideal choice for couples and those celebrating special occasions.
Book on Expedia
Book Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa on Expedia
THINGS TO DO IN SAUSALITO
3. The Gables Inn Sausalito
Overview
The Gables Inn Sausalito is a charming bed and breakfast that offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Located just a short walk from the waterfront, this inn is known for its warm hospitality and personalized service, making it a favorite among visitors looking for a home-away-from-home experience.
Highlights
- Location: The Gables Inn is situated in the heart of Sausalito, making it easy to explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and galleries. The ferry terminal is also nearby, providing easy access to San Francisco.
- Rooms: The inn features a variety of rooms, each uniquely decorated and offering a comfortable and inviting ambiance. Some rooms include fireplaces, private balconies, and bay views.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, as well as wine and cheese receptions in the evening. The inn’s cozy common areas are perfect for relaxing with a book or chatting with fellow travelers.
- Atmosphere: The Gables Inn has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with attentive staff who go out of their way to ensure guests have a memorable stay.
Why Stay Here?
If you’re looking for a quaint and charming place to stay in Sausalito, The Gables Inn is an excellent choice. Its central location, personalized service, and cozy accommodations make it a great option for both couples and solo travelers.
Book on Expedia
Book The Gables Inn Sausalito on Expedia
4. Hotel Sausalito
Overview
Hotel Sausalito is a boutique hotel that offers a blend of European charm and modern comforts. Located right in the heart of downtown Sausalito, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to be close to the action while enjoying a peaceful and stylish retreat.
Highlights
- Location: Hotel Sausalito is located on the town’s main street, just steps from the waterfront, shops, and restaurants. The ferry terminal is also nearby, making it easy to explore San Francisco.
- Rooms: The hotel’s 16 rooms are beautifully decorated with European-inspired furnishings and modern amenities. Many rooms offer views of the bay or the town’s charming streets.
- Design: The hotel’s design blends classic European elegance with contemporary touches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Service: Guests at Hotel Sausalito rave about the friendly and attentive service, which adds to the overall charm of the hotel.
Why Stay Here?
Hotel Sausalito is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a stylish and convenient place to stay in the heart of the town. Its boutique charm, excellent location, and comfortable accommodations make it a top pick for visitors to Sausalito.
Book on Expedia
Book Hotel Sausalito on Expedia
5. Inn Above Tide
Overview
The Inn Above Tide is a luxury waterfront hotel that offers some of the most spectacular views in Sausalito. As its name suggests, the inn is perched directly above the water, giving guests the sensation of floating on the bay. This unique setting, combined with the inn’s luxurious accommodations, makes it a truly unforgettable place to stay.
Highlights
- Location: The Inn Above Tide is located right on the water, offering unparalleled views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The hotel is also just steps from downtown Sausalito, making it easy to explore the town’s attractions.
- Rooms: Each of the inn’s 29 rooms and suites is designed to maximize the stunning views, with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. The rooms are elegantly decorated and feature luxurious amenities such as fireplaces, soaking tubs, and Frette linens.
- Service: The inn’s personalized service is second to none, with thoughtful touches such as evening wine and cheese receptions, complimentary breakfast delivered to your room, and concierge services to help plan your stay.
- Unique Experience: Staying at The Inn Above Tide is a truly unique experience, as the hotel’s waterfront location gives guests the sensation of being on a luxury yacht, with the added comfort of a five-star hotel.
Why Stay Here?
For travelers seeking a luxurious and unique experience, The Inn Above Tide is hard to beat. The combination of its stunning location, elegant accommodations, and exceptional service make it one of the best hotels in Sausalito.
Book on Expedia
Book The Inn Above Tide on Expedia
6. The Lodge at Tiburon
Overview
While not technically in Sausalito, The Lodge at Tiburon is a fantastic nearby option for those seeking a relaxing and upscale stay just a short drive away. Located in the charming town of Tiburon, this lodge offers a resort-like experience with easy access to both Sausalito and San Francisco.
Highlights
- Location: The Lodge at Tiburon is located in the heart of Tiburon, just a short ferry ride from San Francisco and a quick drive to Sausalito. The hotel’s central location makes it a great base for exploring the entire Bay Area.
- Rooms: The lodge offers a variety of rooms and suites, each designed with comfort and style in mind. Many rooms feature private balconies or patios, perfect for enjoying the California sunshine.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy the hotel’s heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fire pit, as well as on-site dining at Tiburon Tavern, which offers farm-to-table cuisine in a casual setting.
- Pet-Friendly: The Lodge at Tiburon is a pet-friendly hotel, making it a great choice for travelers with furry friends.
Why Stay Here?
The Lodge at Tiburon offers a resort-like experience in a charming and convenient location. Its proximity to Sausalito, combined with its comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities, make it a great option for travelers looking to explore the Bay Area.
Book on Expedia
Book The Lodge at Tiburon on Expedia
7. Waters Edge Hotel
Overview
Another excellent option just across the bay in Tiburon is Waters Edge Hotel. This boutique hotel offers a peaceful and luxurious retreat with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the bay. Its waterfront location and elegant design make it a popular choice for romantic getaways and special occasions.
Highlights
- Location: Waters Edge Hotel is located right on the waterfront in Tiburon, offering easy access to the town’s shops, restaurants, and ferry terminal. The hotel’s location provides stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the bay.
- Rooms: The hotel’s 23 rooms are beautifully designed with a blend of modern and classic elements. Each room features a private balcony or patio, many of which offer bay views.
- Service: Guests at Waters Edge Hotel can enjoy a complimentary breakfast delivered to their room, as well as evening wine and cheese receptions. The hotel’s staff is known for their warm and attentive service, ensuring a memorable stay.
- Relaxation: The hotel’s tranquil setting and elegant design make it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Bay Area.
Why Stay Here?
Waters Edge Hotel offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat with stunning views and top-notch service. Its waterfront location and elegant accommodations make it an ideal choice for a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation.
Book on Expedia
Book Waters Edge Hotel on Expedia
8. Cavallo Point – The Lodge at the Golden Gate
Overview
Cavallo Point is a luxurious lodge located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this eco-friendly hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
Highlights
- Location: Cavallo Point is located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, offering easy access to hiking trails and breathtaking views of the bridge and San Francisco Bay. The lodge’s location within the national park provides a serene and natural setting.
- Rooms: The lodge offers both historic and contemporary rooms, each designed with comfort and style in mind. Many rooms feature fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private balconies with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, complimentary yoga classes, and fine dining at Murray Circle Restaurant, which showcases seasonal, locally sourced cuisine. The lodge also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including guided hikes and photography tours.
- Sustainability: Cavallo Point is committed to sustainability, with eco-friendly practices throughout the property, including solar power and water conservation initiatives.
Why Stay Here?
Cavallo Point offers a luxurious and eco-friendly retreat with stunning views and top-notch amenities. Its unique location at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, combined with its commitment to sustainability, makes it one of the best hotels in the Sausalito area.
Book on Expedia
Book Cavallo Point – The Lodge at the Golden Gate on Expedia
9. Acqua Hotel Mill Valley
Overview
Located just a short drive from Sausalito, Acqua Hotel Mill Valley offers a peaceful and contemporary retreat with stunning views of Mount Tamalpais and Richardson Bay. This boutique hotel is known for its modern design, excellent service, and serene setting, making it a great option for those seeking a relaxing stay near Sausalito.
Highlights
- Location: Acqua Hotel is located in Mill Valley, just a short drive from Sausalito and San Francisco. The hotel’s waterfront location provides beautiful views of Richardson Bay and Mount Tamalpais.
- Rooms: The hotel’s rooms are spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize the stunning views. Many rooms also feature private balconies or patios, perfect for enjoying the California sunshine.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, as well as afternoon cookies and refreshments. The hotel also offers free bike rentals, perfect for exploring the nearby trails and waterfront.
- Design: Acqua Hotel’s contemporary design and peaceful setting make it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Bay Area.
Why Stay Here?
Acqua Hotel Mill Valley offers a peaceful and modern retreat with stunning views and excellent service. Its proximity to Sausalito, combined with its contemporary design and serene setting, make it a great choice for travelers looking to explore the Bay Area.
Book on Expedia
Book Acqua Hotel Mill Valley on Expedia
Conclusion
Sausalito is a gem of a destination, offering stunning views, charming streets, and easy access to the best of the Bay Area. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a modern boutique hotel, Sausalito has something to offer every traveler. From the historic charm of Cavallo Point Lodge to the unique waterfront experience at The Inn Above Tide, the hotels in Sausalito provide a wide range of options to suit any preference and budget.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’re sure to enjoy the beauty and charm of Sausalito. So, pack your bags, book your stay through Expedia.com, and get ready for an unforgettable getaway in one of California’s most picturesque towns.
