Best hotels near Alcatraz Island for a convenient stay
Alcatraz is one of the world’s most legendary prisons, drawing visitors from around the globe. Since it sits on a small island (22.5 acres / 9 hectares) in San Francisco Bay, there are no hotels on Alcatraz Island itself.
Visitors taking the Day or Night Tour can stay until the last ferry departs—which is 9:30 PM from March to November and 7:30 PM for the rest of the year—but must return to the mainland.
If you are looking for a place close to Alcatraz, the best option is San Francisco, as the island is just 1.25 miles (2.01 km) from the northern shore.
Below, we have listed some of the best hotels near Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing, where all Alcatraz cruises depart.
Note: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak season (March – November), to ensure the best rates and availability.
1. Argonaut Hotel
The Argonaut Hotel is a 4.5-star bayside hotel known for its historic charm and prime location.
Just a 1-minute drive (0.9 km) from Alcatraz Landing, it offers easy access to the ferry. The hotel boasts a 24-hour fitness center, a 24-hour business center, and spa services, including sports massages.
One of its highlights is the on-site seafood restaurant, Blue Mermaid, which serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner in both indoor and outdoor settings.
The 252 rooms feature premium bedding, air conditioning, and laptop-friendly workspaces, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The Argonaut is also pet-friendly, welcoming cats and dogs for an extra charge. Guests can also explore nearby attractions like Ghirardelli Square (4 min walk), Lombard Street (8 min walk), and Pier 39 (12 min walk).
2. Columbus Motor Inn
For budget-conscious travelers, the Columbus Motor Inn is a great option.
This 2.5-star hotel is just a 2-minute drive (1.3 km) from Alcatraz Landing and offers a major perk—free parking, which is rare in San Francisco.
The inn provides free in-room WiFi and a 24/7 front desk, making it convenient for guests. It’s also within walking distance of top attractions, including Lombard Street (7 min walk), Ghirardelli Square (8 min walk), and Pier 39 (11 min walk).
However, pets are not allowed, so those traveling with furry friends may need to look elsewhere.
3. Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square
For a luxurious stay, the Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square is a 5-star hotel offering an exclusive experience.
Located just a 2-minute drive (1.3 km) from Alcatraz Landing, it features free valet parking, a fitness center, a terrace, a firepit, and a garden.
The 53 rooms are designed for ultimate comfort, with fireplaces, premium bedding, separate living and dining areas, and even full kitchens. This makes it a fantastic choice for longer stays or families looking for extra space.
The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing dogs for an extra charge, and is conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from Ghirardelli Square, a 7-minute walk from Lombard Street, and a 14-minute walk from Pier 39.
4. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fisherman’s Wharf by IHG
For a comfortable mid-range stay, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fisherman’s Wharf is a 3-star hotel that offers free breakfast—a great perk for travelers looking to start their day with a hearty meal.
It’s located within a 10-minute walk of Pier 39 and close to Lombard Street (9 min walk) and Ghirardelli Square (6 min walk).
The hotel offers free in-room WiFi, a gym, and air-conditioned rooms for a relaxing stay. The Holiday Inn Express is also pet-friendly, allowing dogs for an extra charge per night.
5. Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf
The Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf is a 4-star eco-certified hotel just a 1-minute drive (0.8 km) from Alcatraz Landing.
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, a heated outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.
This hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Pier 39, making it one of the most convenient options for visitors planning an Alcatraz tour.
Other nearby attractions include Ghirardelli Square (9 min walk) and Lombard Street (12 min walk).
The hotel’s 531 rooms offer premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, and safes. However, pets are not allowed at this hotel.
6. Marriott Vacation Club®, San Francisco
The Marriott Vacation Club is a 3-star eco-certified hotel just a 2-minute drive (0.9 km) from Alcatraz Landing. It features a 24-hour fitness center, a 24-hour front desk, and free in-room WiFi for guests.
Located within a 10-minute walk of Pier 39, it’s also close to Ghirardelli Square (6 min walk) and Lombard Street (8 min walk). The 234 rooms come with premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, and safes.
While pets are not allowed, service animals are welcome with no extra charge.
