The Argonaut, A Kimpton Hotel

© The Argonaut | San Francisco

After an early morning transcontinental flight, I drove into San Francisco and easily found The Argonaut. Well-dressed bellman and valetattendants immediately helped me with my luggage and rental car. It was still early in the day, and my room was not yet ready, so I stored my luggage and set out to explore San Francisco. When I returned later than afternoon, I quickly checked in and stopped by the hotel’s complimentary happy hour for a local beer before heading to my guestroom to prepare for dinner.

I was worried the nautical theme of the hotel might be a bit campy, but it was quite elegantly done and the décor was chic, not silly. Design elements I particularly enjoyed were the exposed brick wall, shuttered window shades, a fish bowl with a colorful goldfish happily swimming and the anchor-shaped pillows.

© The Argonaut | San Francisco

My double guestroom was spacious, with great views of the San Francisco Bay. Despite facing the busy Fisherman’s Wharf street, noise was not an issue. Across from the two queen-sized beds, separated by a nightstand, was a flat-screen TV on a dresser and a desk. A floor-length mirror was on the other side of the dresser. The room opened into a hallway, with the bathroom to the left.

I loved the vibe of the lobby, with ample seating options, including loungers reminiscent of a ship deck, offering both comfort and a great design element.

To be near the family-friendly Fisherman’s Wharf, there’s no better hotel option. It is also nearby popular Lombard Street, the world’s curviest street, and Ghiradelli Square, and within easy walking distance to other great neighborhoods and sites.

The Argonaut, A Kimpton Hotel

495 Jefferson St.

San Francisco, CA 94109

tel 415 563 0800