This was published 9 years ago
Inn Above Tide hotel, Sausalito, San Francisco review: The name says it all
The name says it all at this unique property offering incredible views across San Francisco Bay.
By Craig Platt
Location
Across the Golden Gate Bridge in the Marin County town of Sausalito. Despite its proximity to San Francisco, the town of just 7000 has the sleepy feel of a holiday village. It's relaxed and charming, with quaint shops and natural beauty.
The space
It's not called Inn Above Tide for nothing. The hotel sits literally on the bay, with the rooms' private decks making the most of the spectacular waterfront location. There are 31 rooms and suites, all with views and most with private decks. The boutique accommodation doesn't have the polished gleam of the big hotel chains, but it fits well with its sleepy surroundings and position next to the ferry dock.
Comfort factor
The bed of my Grand Deluxe room faces San Francisco Bay, which proves a wonderful way to wake up with the sun sparkling on the water as boats and kayakers glide past. I even see a sea lion swim by. The room itself is comfortable, if lacking any particular 'wow' factor (this is left to the panoramic views).
Wi-Fi internet is complimentary and there is an iPod dock as well as a DVD collection to borrow from, if you fancy just relaxing in your room. There's a fireplace for the winter months, fortunately not required during my summer visit.
The marble bathroom features a deep bath set in an alcove that give you the sort of feeling that you're in your own private health retreat rather than a hotel room.
Breakfast is served in the guest lounge and features cereal, pastries, fruits and eggs. It's a good chance to meet fellow guests (though if you prefer breakfast can be served in your room). The lounge also hosts a sunset wine and cheese service.
The food
Sausalito is a sleepy holiday village with dining options to match – there's fish and chips on the waterfront, exceptionally good ice cream at Lappert's on Bridgeway (the main street) and directly opposite the Napa Valley Burger Company, that offers traditional burgers along with some fancier fare (such as a bison burger with blue cheese).
Worth stepping out for
Sausalito is a long way from downtown San Francisco, but the hotel is adjacent to the ferry terminal, which takes only about 20 minutes to the city and carries the bonus of beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and San Francisco's skyline.
The only downside is the ferries finish in the early evening, so if you're looking to enjoy San Francisco's nightlife, you'll be looking at an expensive taxi ride across the bridge.
Speaking of which, Inn Above Tide offers guests free bicycles to explore the area, which gives you the opportunity to enjoy a must-do for the destination – cycling over the Golden Gate. There's no better way to get a feel for this engineering marvel than taking a gentle ride across (hopefully with limited fog).
The verdict
Inn Above Tide is best for those who have spent a couple of days in the heart of San Francisco and are looking to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Even though its only 20 minutes by ferry, Sausalito feels a world away from the other side of the bay.
How to get there
Qantas, Virgin Australia, Delta Airways, United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines all fly from Australia into US cities with connections to San Francisco either on the same carrier or with codeshare partners.
The best way to get to the hotel is to take train or taxi from San Francisco International Airport to the Embarcadero Ferry Terminal and catch a ferry across to Sausalito. The hotel is less than one-minute's walk from the Sausalito Ferry Terminal.
Essentials
Rooms start from $US345 per night, with my Grand Deluxe room $615 per night. See www.innabovetide.com
The writer stayed as a guest of the Inn Above Tide.
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