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A member of the Leading Small Hotels of the World and definitely one of San Francisco’s finest, this place aims to provide personal attention to every guest. Expect to find the best of everything. Its restaurant also has national ranking.

In the heart of the Theater District, this quirky but extremely comfortable hotel is run to perfection. The fairy-tale decor is joyously original, being at once a celebration of color and elegance, and the beds may be the most comfortable in the world. The stylish restaurant is an attraction in itself.

Talk about trendy in this town and all conversations will lead to the W hotel. Minimalist with luxury touches throughout. Rooms have cordless phones and CD players. The clientele that come for drinks and general confabulation are modish trendsetters too.

“Equal parts wit, surrealism, and glamour.” So say the proprietors of this latest Ian Schrager property, with interiors by Philippe Starck. You’ll laugh with delight at the visual jokes, including a chaise very, very longue by none other than Dalí.

Perhaps the city’s most original hotel, featuring avant-garde touches – evening tarot card readings, feather boa rentals, and several suites designed by rock celebrities, including Jerry Garcia. It’s all too cool for words; you might run into Cher or Courtney Love, both of whom have stayed here.

Steeped in California’s literary and artistic traditions, this great little hotel boasts an intellectual air and decor that suggest 1920s salon society. Still, the rooms have the very latest touches, such as voice mail, CD players, and writing desks for guests to pursue their own creativity.

This beautiful Art Deco hotel dates from 1908 and has a handsome style, accented by Edward Hopper prints. Parking is included – a great rarity.

The only hotel built directly on the Bay. The views from guestroom balconies are stunning, and the ambience serene. A wonderful choice, convenient to the city via the Golden Gate Bridge or a ferry ride.

Combining the sophistication of a European hotel with the cozy charm of a California mill town, this inn is tucked away in a redwood grove.

Newly remodeled guestrooms feature private terraces in this Spanish-style hotel.