The 5 Best Hotels in the Castro, San Francisco

The Perramont Hotel is simple, unfussy and slightly dated when it comes to decor, but it does the job after a night out exploring the Castro’s famous cocktail bars, dance clubs and 24-hour diners. Some rooms have shared bathrooms, while others have bay windows that look out over the bustling neighborhood. All come with free wifi – which, surprisingly, doesn’t come as standard in many of the city’s hotels.

On Market Street near Church Street, Twin Peaks Hotel offers budget accommodation in an ideal location, outside a transportation hub with MUNI train and bus stops. Its rooms are basic, and some have shared bathrooms. However, travelers watching their wallets will appreciate the low price tag – which isn’t easy to find in a city as expensive as San Francisco. Rooms also come with TVs and free wifi.

The Willows Inn Bed and Breakfast is a European-style accommodation in a century-old Edwardian house. It’s a real home away from home, filled with handcrafted willow furnishings and antiques, and the rooms have large comfortable beds, kimono bathrobes and luxurious bath products. The breakfast spread in the morning is a generous combination of fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, cereal and boiled eggs, served with coffee, tea and juice and a newspaper. Stop by the sitting room before heading out for the night for a complimentary cocktail with the innkeeper, who is always happy to give recommendations.

Travelers at the Parker Guest House will immediately feel like part of the neighborhood. On the edge of the Castro and Mission neighborhoods, the boutique hotel offers a quiet garden sanctuary with charming interiors, including a cozy library with a fireplace. Complimentary wine tastings – served daily in the sunroom overlooking the gardens – make stays here more sociable, and breakfast is included every day, too. However, you should save room for a visit to the city’s most famous cafe, Tartine Bakery, which is just a short walk from the hotel.

Built as a motel in the 1950s, Beck’s Motor Lodge has had a contemporary renovation while still maintaining some mid-century charm. It’s spotless, brightly colored and spacious. Some of the rooms have views of Market Street, and all have TVs, fridges, coffee makers and access to a sun deck. It’s also within walking distance of many famous gay clubs and bars, as well as LGBTQ museums and important Castro landmarks. Continuing its namesake legacy, the lodge offers free parking – a rarity in this busy part of San Francisco.