Flight
San Francisco international (SFO), San Jose International (SJO) and Oakland International (OAK) are all within the Bay Area. SJO is furthest. SFO is easiest (and mostly likely best airport to choose). OAK is easy too but you’re crossing the Bay Bridge which could be a pain
Train
It does exist in San Francisco! There are a few apps that make it easy. We recommend downloading the Clipper app or simply getting a Clipper card- because Clipper can be used on all forms of public transport (including the ferries and the streetcar!). There is also the SFMTA app and BART app. The streetcar is definitely fun- an open air ride with iconic city views- without having to walk up incredibly steep streets. Ride share options are highly accessible (Lyft, Uber, ARRO, YoTaxi SF, and FlyWheel). The rides hare prices are often quite reasonable-especially when traveling 3 or more people, in which case the cost may equal or be less than separate public transport fees.
Hotel
The Kimpton Alton Hotel is right in the mix of Fisherman's Wharf. The hotel is hip and energetic much like the street outside. The SF waterfront is minutes away- as are so many local destinations. You can even walk to the wedding venue- via the park and along the water- in 20 minutes. *** This wedding block has expired as of September 8. 2022!*** They may still have some rooms left. Rooms usually run $260+ a night depending. Many people staying here- including us on the night of the wedding! Follow the "view" link below to book
Hotel
Hotel Riu is equally fun and hipster- just two blocks away from the Alton Hotel (the other hotel blocked for us at Fisherman’s wharf). So all the same great benefits of location. *** This room block has expired as of September 14, 2022.*** There are limited rooms still available. This hotel is proximate to the Kimpton Alton Hotel where many guests are also staying Follow the "view" link below to book:
Hotel
Cow Hollow neighborhood and the Marina District are trendy and walkable neighborhoods with some fantastic shops and restaurants. This stretch of Lombard Street is the old Highway 1, this inn and others there are vintage motels from that era!Cow Hollow Motor inn is a short 15 minute walk to the wedding venue, as well as lots of parks. Pop around the corner to Chestnut Street or Union Street for great restaurants and shops. We have a dedicated wedding block here. This is the only one of the three that is still active: *** The wedding block expires on Sept 26, 2022.*** King- $175 plus taxes and fees per night. Two Double Beds- $180 plus taxes and fees per night Just tell them “Clark Wai Wedding” over the phone when booking. 415-921-5800
Travel Note
You may find some great deals in San Francisco's Downtown business district or Tenderloin neighborhood. We suggest avoiding a hotel in those areas. Unfortunately these neighborhoods can be a little less welcoming to tourists, but do offer some good services for those experiencing homelessness. If you are looking to use your reward points for some major hotel brands-- we recommend the Marriott in Fisherman's Wharf at 580 beach St or the Hilton in Chinatown/FiDi at 750 Kearny St.
Travel Note
Book a short term home rental through sites like AirBnB or VRBO to explore neighborhoods on a more intimate level. Arguably, the real San Francisco is found in these very distinct little neighborhoods. Unfortunately, there are little or no hotels in these areas. For the a true neighborhood feel: Check out the Richmond neighborhood. Also known as the Avenues. It is a flat section of the city sandwiched between Presidio Park and Golden Gate Park and stretching to the Pacific Ocean. All three of these things will take you days to explore. Traditionally Chinese and Russian, you will find amazing food here too. For some energy- stick a pin on Mission Dolores Park and search for places in concentric circles around it. The neighborhood is young, hip, and fun. The park itself has great views- and offers acres of grass to lounge. The Mission has some of the best food in the city- several with Michelin stars. Be aware where you are booking though, as with many energetic urban neighborhoods, many blocks in this area have a good share of urban challenges. Other neighborhoods to check out bookings: The Castro (hub of nightlife and one national center of LGBTQIA+ civil rights movement), Pacific Heights (hobnob with billionaires and great views everywhere), and the Marina District (where the wedding is and our hotel recommendations)