If you’re vacationing in the Bay Area, you’ll love staying in Sausalito. This scenic city offers beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay when you venture out on its many hiking, biking, and walking trails. But Sausalito is more than just a place to look at San Francisco.

This city is home to a vibrant community of artists, many of whom call the famous Richardson Bay houseboats home. In addition to art galleries and stunning sculptures all around, you’ll also find that this charming town is home to upscale restaurants, enthralling historic sites, and museums of all kinds. Staying here also puts you just a short way away from the otherworldly Muir Woods National Monument, where old-growth redwood trees soar high above you!

Sausalito is home to many different hotel options, from rustic lodges to chic resorts. And most of the best hotels in Sausalito offer either ocean or redwood views, allowing you to wake up each morning with a breathtaking view. 

With so many choices, you might have a hard time picking the right hotel for you. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Sausalito to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Where to Stay in Sausalito

Sausalito sits right on the water, which is why so many hotels in the area boast ocean views. And staying on the water also gives you the benefit of being downtown, which puts you just steps away from the city’s top attractions. 

One of the biggest benefits of staying in the downtown area is that you’ll also be right by the Sausalito Ferry. If you plan on visiting Sausalito, you’ll likely want to spend a day or two exploring San Francisco and the rest of the Bay Area as well. By being right by the ferry, you’ll have easy access to getting into San Francisco.

Whether you’ll want to rent a car or not depends on the type of vacation you’re looking for. If you intend on spending many days visiting Muir Woods National Monument or other locations that are more secluded, you may want a car to help you get there.

But as a whole, Sausalito is a highly walkable city, with many locations offering things to do all day long. It’s easy to spend a whole day in the Marin Headlands, for instance, so all you may need is an Uber or cab ride there in the morning before spending the rest of the day on foot.

And if you intend on visiting San Francisco, having a car may be more of a nuisance than it’s worth. Driving into and around San Francisco is expensive, overcrowded, and altogether frustrating. And with a lack of parking, you’ll likely pay a pretty penny just to leave your car somewhere in the city after you decide to explore on foot. 

The 12 Best Hotels in Sausalito, CA

1. Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa

Sitting atop a hill with a gorgeous view of the water, the Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa is one of the best places to stay in Sausalito. This hotel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers an intimate and luxurious experience that puts you in a perfect location. You’re in beautiful Marin County, but you’re also just a quick and easy journey away from San Francisco.

This hotel offers several different room styles, ensuring that the stay you want is the stay you get. Over in the contemporary rooms, you’ll get either a courtyard or harbor view, as well as a four-poster bed, pillow-top mattress, flat-screen TV, seating area, locally-sourced coffee with a coffee maker, and EO bath amenities. Some rooms also have balconies.

Over in the hillside cottages, you can unwind in complete guest houses with hilltop views, sophisticated and spacious suites, or expansive guest rooms, some including balconies. For even more luxury, you can book a stay in the mansion, which features several suite options. The crown jewel of the hotel is the mansion’s 5,000-square-foot Alexandrite Suite, which is the picture of luxury.

For even more luxury, book a treatment at the Spa at Casa Madrona, a day spa devoted to skin health and well-being. From prenatal massages to astrological journeys, these treatments are one-of-a-kind.

2. Hotel Sausalito

Located in Downtown Sausalito, the Hotel Sausalito is one of the best Sausalito hotels thanks to its location and romantic atmosphere. This colorful and artistic hotel will remind you of the French Riviera. 

A staple of Sausalito since 1915, this hotel is a perfect mix of both historic and modern. You’ll find touches of the hotel’s original design throughout, but an extensive renovation done in 1996 helped it get ready to greet the 21st century. 

Each of the 16 rooms and suites in Hotel Sausalito is different as they feature custom-designed furnishings handcrafted by local artisans. They include unique touches like stained-glass windows and park and harbor views, as well as modern amenities like plush beds, free Wi-Fi, morning newspapers, satellite TV, and knowledgeable concierges who can help you plan the perfect trip.

3. The Gables Inn Sausalito

Built in 1869, The Gables Inn holds the title of the first hotel in Sausalito. And today, it remains one of the best hotels in Sausalito. It’s a quiet hideaway, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. But at the same time, it’s conveniently located, so you’re only a short trip away from some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment Sausalito has to offer.

Each of the rooms in the Gables Inn offers something a little different, but they’re also beautifully decorated with tasteful furnishings and modern amenities. Rooms feature plush beds, flat-screen TVs, in-room coffee service, complimentary Wi-Fi, Aveda spa amenities, and either bathtubs with spa jets, antique claw-foot tubs, or spacious showers. 

Some rooms also include fireplaces, French doors leading out to either patios or balconies, reading nooks, sleeper sofas, and views of the Bay Area. 

4. Waters Edge

Located in nearby Tiburon on Main Street, Waters Edge is one of the coolest hotels in Sausalito, thanks to its extensive amenities and convenient location. Staying here puts you just two minutes away from Tiburon’s shops and galleries, as well as a quick walk away from a ferry that will take you to San Francisco’s Financial District and the famous Fisherman’s Wharf.

Waters Edge, which is a certified Green Hotel, strives to be truly full-service, offering amenities to suit every need. Each room comes with a fireplace, plush beds, EO bath products, soaking tubs, LCD TVs with DVD players and a DVD lending library, complimentary Wi-Fi, a seating area or work desk, spa robes, and air conditioning. Some rooms also offer views of the San Francisco Bay or the marina.

Each morning, you’ll awaken to a free breakfast served right in your room. And each night, you can grab a seat on the deck for a complimentary wine reception while you watch the sun sink into the water. You can also go out and greet the day on a complimentary bike. 

5. The Lodge at Tiburon

Sitting on three acres in the beautiful sailing village of Tiburon, the Lodge at Tiburon is one of the most unique hotels in Sausalito due to its ability to be both so near Sausalito and San Francisco’s best attractions and yet feel like a world away. This peaceful and secluded hotel is a perfect place for a romantic escape.

Featuring rustic charm mixed with upscale amenities, you’ll love every minute in this tranquil retreat. Sit back and enjoy the view from the SkyDeck Open Air Lounge, order a meal from the poolside cabanas as you relax in their comfortable beds, soak in a whirlpool spa, or go for a swim in the year-round outdoor pool. 

A small $25 destination fee gets you access to all these amenities, as well as access to high-speed Wi-Fi, Trek bicycles available for rentals, pool towels and lounge chairs, the fitness center, the EV charging station, a welcome drink, morning coffee in the lobby, a daily wine hour featuring local vineyards, and evening s’mores by the fire pit.

The hotel’s pet-friendly rooms also feature USB charging stations, flat-screen TVs, luxury bath amenities, a seating area, and a coffee maker with Starbucks coffee. Some rooms also include either private balconies or patios. 

Also on-site is the Tiburon Tavern, a rustic restaurant offering gourmet cuisine. Each meal is made with locally- and regionally-sourced ingredients, ensuring only the freshest of dishes.

6. Muir Woods Lodge

Located in nearby Mill Valley, the Muir Woods Lodge offers an unfussy retreat that’s perfect for nature lovers. This lodge puts you just a short drive away from places you’ll love to spend the day exploring, including Muir Woods National Monument and Stinson Beach. 

These unpretentious rooms are ideal if you’re looking for a place that’ll give you easy access to adventures around the Bay Area. They have all the amenities you need for a night’s rest right in a location that’s hard to beat.

The hotel features both single and double rooms with free Wi-Fi, cable TV with premium channels, complimentary daily newspaper, air conditioning, microwaves, free tea and coffee with coffee makers, and complimentary breakfast provided each morning. Some rooms also offer a seating area or workstation. 

7. Acqua Hotel

Sitting on the edge of Richardson Bay, the Acqua Hotel is located in quaint Mill Valley and is one of the coolest hotels in Sausalito. This sleek and stylish hotel places you just a few miles from the beautiful Muir Woods National Monument and gives you easy access to both scenic Sausalito and the many attractions San Francisco has to offer. 

All rooms include plush beds, flat-screen TVs, spa robes, and EO bath products. Most rooms also feature either patios or balconies, many with views of the water or Mount Tamalpais. All suites offer an additional chaise lounge, sitting area, and soaking tub, with some suites also including a fireplace.

As a certified Green Hotel, Acqua Hotel focuses on providing full-service amenities while following a long list of standards that allow it to function as a green, eco-conscious business. These amenities include free daily breakfast, Trek mountain bikes available for guest use, and an evening wine reception each day.

8. Mill Valley Inn

Also located in charming Mill Valley is the Mill Valley Inn, one of the best boutique hotels in the Sausalito area. This intimate, romantic hotel is just a short walk away from the downtown area, offering luxury shops, dining, and art galleries. It’s also just a quick drive away from the picturesque Muir Woods. While many of the other hotels on this list offer scenic water views, this hotel offers views of the beautiful redwoods.

The Mill Valley Inn, which is a Green Hotel, features rooms in three buildings: the Creek House, the Main Building, and the Cottages. All rooms feature EO bath products, free Wi-Fi, spa robes, free morning newspapers, and LCD TVs. Some rooms also include balconies or patios, fireplaces, and soaking tubs. 

Each morning, you’ll be greeted by a deluxe continental breakfast with an espresso bar, while you can end each evening with a complimentary wine reception. Hiking trails are just steps from the property, and you can head out on foot or go out on a complimentary Trek mountain bike available for guests’ use. And if you’d like to just sit and relax in nature, you can head to the Sun Terrace Lounge, where you can sit back with a complimentary cup of coffee or tea, available all day long.

9. Marin Suites Hotel

Looking for a luxurious stay? The Marin Suites Hotel is one of the best hotels in Sausalito for travelers who want to live lavishly. This all-suite hotel is located in Corte Madera, just a bit outside Sausalito and 15 miles from San Francisco. 

Choose from studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom suites, all with fully-equipped kitchens. All rooms come with daily housekeeping, complimentary luxury toiletries, coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and LCD TVs. 

In addition to your room’s amenities, you’ll also find plenty more available to you on-site. Relax in the open-air Sanctuary Lounge, which features a cozy fireplace. Or go for a dip in the heated outdoor saltwater pool or whirlpool spa. Get a workout in at the fitness center. Or have a BBQ in the garden courtyard, featuring BBQ grills and firepits. 

10. Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel

Located right on the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel is just a quick ferry ride away from Sausalito and puts you in a convenient location to explore both Sausalito and San Francisco. Housed in the Haslett Warehouse building, the Argonaut Hotel is unassuming from the outside, yet inside, you’ll find a modern, luxurious stay.

For a small fee of $31, you’ll get access to all of the hotel’s amenities, including concierge services, a $10 food and beverage credit, in-room coffee, Wi-Fi, bike rentals available for two hours at a time, fitness center, daily newspapers, television casting in guestrooms, board games around the lobby fireplace, a chest of toys and a scavenger hunt for kids, an Xbox Kinect gaming console, treats and accessories for your furry friends, and a DVD player. 

You’ll also get access to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park’s Visitor Center with guided waterfront tours on Saturdays and Sundays. You’ll unlock discounts around California as well, including 10 percent off the Napa Valley Wine Train Gourmet Express.

You’ll find even more amenities in your hotel rooms, including luxury bath products and 4K TVs. Many rooms also feature views of San Francisco or the hotel’s beautiful courtyard. This hotel strives to provide the best service for every guest, which is why it has rooms to suit every need, such as six rooms with extra long beds for taller travelers. 

Also on-site are the hotel spa, which also offers in-room treatments, and the hotel’s restaurant, Blue Mermaid, a nautical oceanfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and handcrafted cocktails.

11. Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf

Another Fisherman’s Wharf find, Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the best Sausalito hotels, thanks to its excellent location, top amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Staying here puts you just a stroll away from the Sausalito Ferry and the iconic Pier 33. 

These chic hotel rooms feature smart TVs with Chromecast, wireless charging stations, 250-thread count linens, complimentary Wi-Fi, workstations, Guest Wellness Kits, air conditioning, individual climate control, and two complimentary refillable water bottles. The hotel has down, feather, or foam pillows available to suit every need. Some rooms also feature either full or partial city or bay views. 

The hotel charges a Destination Fee of $31 to unlock all these amenities, as well as access to the Caza Cruiser bikes, morning Lavazza coffee and Mighty Leaf tea, fitness center, Game Zone arcade, year-round outdoor heated pool, yoga mats, and evening milk and cookies hour. You’ll also unlock discounts at local eateries and attractions.

In addition to the pool and Game Zone, also on-site are CZ2GO, a grab ‘n go market with snacks and local treats, and the CAZBAR, a stylish bar filled with California wines and handcrafted cocktails.

12. Hotel Drisco

Hotel Drisco, located in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood, is a perfect pick for a Bay Area vacation as it puts you within walking distance of some of the most beautiful San Francisco attractions while still being close to the Sausalito Ferry. You’ll be just a 6-minute stroll from the scenic Presidio park and just a few miles from the Golden Gate Bridge.

This elegant hotel strives to be full-service, with amenities including all-day coffee and tea service with homemade biscotti, a daily gourmet continental breakfast, an evening wine reception, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, free bicycle use, a DVD and Blu-ray lending library, a morning newspaper delivered to your door, overnight shoeshine service, and daily morning chauffeur service to any destination within San Francisco’s city limits.

In addition to these amenities, your room also comes with pillow-top mattresses, seating areas, workstations, heated bathroom floors, fog-free mirrors, and extra-large windows. Some rooms also feature gorgeous city views.

That completes our list of the 12 best Sausalito hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Sausalito? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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