Central Waterfront Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Central Waterfront
Popular places to visit
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium Daytime Admission
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Top hotels in Central Waterfront
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Good location, expensive parking and breakfast (it's a full buffet) - but you can usually get a "discount" when reserving thru a 3rd party. Overall good value for the city.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Great location and affordable for a quick stay. Close to Chinatown, several restaurants and you can walk down to the water. Rooms are small and very little counter space in the bathroom. Definitely a deal for those on a budget though!
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Great property in a great location. Self parking is affordable and convenient.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
I like this place
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Premium king with balcony, the view was incredible, hotel was beautiful & clean, staff were helpful. Will be in my rotation of hotels I use for SF visits.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
ADA beds too high
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Check Central Waterfront hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Central Waterfront
Mission Bay
While you're in Mission Bay, take in top sights like Chase Center or Lefty O'Doul Bridge, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at UCSF/Chase Center Stop or Mission Rock Station.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. San Francisco Public Library is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
South Park
Oracle Park and Brannan Street Wharf are a few top attractions in South Park. Hop around the city on the metro at 2nd & King Station or Fourth-Brannan Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to San Francisco Bay – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
Union Square
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Union Square. Check out top attractions like Westin St Francis Hotel Glass Elevators and Union Square, and jump on the metro at Powell St & Geary Blvd Stop or Powell St & Post St Stop to see more of the city.
