Aloft San Francisco Airport

Like it's equally colorful sister chain, the W brand, this trendy outpost of the Aloft goes big on youthful appeal, with a funky blend of contemporary design and vibrant style. The Aloft's lobby has an industrial-chic aesthetic, with exposed ductwork and track lighting that's offset by bright rugs and neon-hued, bold furnishings. The style won't be for everyone, and definitely skews toward those who like an informal energetic ambience with a social vibe -- it's a refreshing change from most airport hotels, to be honest. With board games spread around the tables in the lounge areas, and a billiards table for guests to use, the lobby can be a lively place, especially on Fridays when the hotel hosts DJs. Most guests are travelers needing easy access to the nearby airport and the hotel accepts travelers with small dogs at no extra cost.

Aloft San Francisco Airport is located a five-minute drive from SFO, where there's a BART station with trains to downtown San Francisco. The journey takes half an hour. Guests can also catch the BART at the Millbrae station, a five-minute drive or 15-minute walk away. Alternatively a drive or taxi ride downtown takes about 25 minutes, depending on traffic. The Golden Gate Bridge is a 30-minute drive from the hotel, while Berkeley and the East Bay suburbs are around 40 to 45 minutes away by car. The hotel has a free and frequent airport shuttle.

Keeping in line with the funky aesthetic of the hotel's common areas, the 253 modern guest rooms have sleek furniture, including long light wooden desks and matching headboards with built-in night stands. The look is a bit more subdued than the barrage of industrial-chic design downstairs, and decor includes slate blue carpeting, light gray and charcoal gray walls, and artsy images of the Golden Gate Bridge that add a little local flavor. King or queen platform beds are made with white linens and snazzy striped accent pillows. Tech amenities include 42-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and copies of Wired magazine. All rooms have mini-fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and bottled water. Bathrooms are modern, with vessel sinks and walk-in showers, and Bliss toiletries are provided. Some guests have complained about noise from the nearby airport. 

True to the ethos of Starwood's youth-minded brands, like the W and Aloft, there are a good number of on-site amenities to keep travelers entertained here. The hotel's lobby bar serves snacks and drinks and has weekly performances by DJs, but keep in mind that there's no proper restaurant. There’s a pantry with light food for sale, such as sandwiches and salads as well, as a limited selection of breakfast items. Other features include a pool with panoramic windows and a wooden ceiling; lounge chairs are lined up outside for sun bathers. There’s also a 24-hour fitness center with free weights and a variety of modern machines, including treadmills, elliptical machines, and stationary bikes. The business center has two computers and a printer as well as two cell phone “booths," and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Small dogs are allowed free of charge, and the hotel offers in-room water bowls and free treats. The hotel has a free airport shuttle with frequent service and parking is available for a fee.