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Our top choices for Kensington hotels

1. Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
4.0 star property
10.2 mi from Kensington
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (7,760 reviews)
"Great location, excellent staff, good room, outstanding breakfast"
United States
Patricia
$154 nightly
The price is $181
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
4.0 star property
Berkeley Marina, 3.4 mi from Kensington
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (5,224 reviews)
"Really nice dog friendly place with nice restaurant and a great off leash park nearby. The property is well maintained and the staff were super friendly."
United States
Rajadurai
$143 nightly
The price is $165
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina

3. Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
3.5 star property
11.4 mi from Kensington
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (6,486 reviews)
"Super clean and staff were super welcoming, excellent location as well"
United States
Laura
$119 nightly
The price is $140
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

4. Claremont Resort & Club

Claremont Resort & Club
5.0 star property
Claremont Hills, 4.1 mi from Kensington
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,207 reviews)
"Visit the hotel a few times a year always wonderful staff great location."
United States
Mohamed
$403 nightly
The price is $468
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Claremont Resort & Club

5. Hotel Shattuck Plaza

Hotel Shattuck Plaza
4.0 star property
Downtown Berkeley, 2.9 mi from Kensington
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,414 reviews)
"Room was clean and the staff was very helpful."
United States
Chase
$163 nightly
The price is $188
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Shattuck Plaza

6. Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel
3.5 star property
11 mi from Kensington
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,724 reviews)
"Great hotel !"
United States
Anna
$149 nightly
The price is $176
Nov 21 - Nov 22
Total with taxes and fees
Handlery Union Square Hotel

7. Hilton San Francisco Union Square

Hilton San Francisco Union Square
4.0 star property
11.2 mi from Kensington
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,892 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Emily
$151 nightly
The price is $178
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton San Francisco Union Square

8. Hilton San Francisco Financial District

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
4.0 star property
10.5 mi from Kensington
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,429 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Huy
$93 nightly
The price is $110
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton San Francisco Financial District

9. Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco

Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco
4.0 star property
10.3 mi from Kensington
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,553 reviews)
"Great location .. great price, friendly staff"
United States
Stephen
$105 nightly
The price is $123
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco

10. HYATT house Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area

HYATT house Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area
3.0 star property
5 mi from Kensington
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,441 reviews)
"Property was immaculate and staff was super helpful and attentive."
United States
John A
$161 nightly
The price is $181
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
HYATT house Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area

11. Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco
4.0 star property
10.2 mi from Kensington
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (2,571 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Joceline
$208 nightly
The price is $245
Nov 13 - Nov 14
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Regency San Francisco

12. Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
3.5 star property
11 mi from Kensington
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3,567 reviews)
"Great location, friendly staff, and clean rooms."
United States
Jamie
$116 nightly
The price is $137
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

13. Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley

Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley
4.0 star property
Downtown Berkeley, 2.8 mi from Kensington
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (670 reviews)
"Great stay as always! The beds are very comfortable."
United States
Erin
$278 nightly
The price is $320
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley

14. Terrace Inn and Suites

Terrace Inn and Suites
2.5 star property
1.7 mi from Kensington
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (576 reviews)
"Clean room, staff were helpful."
United States
Ahmed
$67 nightly
The price is $74
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Total with taxes and fees
Terrace Inn and Suites

15. Aiden by Best Western Berkeley

Aiden by Best Western Berkeley
3.5 star property
Northwest Berkeley, 2.8 mi from Kensington
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (498 reviews)
"Great stay."
United States
Jarron
$163 nightly
The price is $187
Dec 2 - Dec 3
Total with taxes and fees
Aiden by Best Western Berkeley

16. Graduate by Hilton Berkeley

Graduate by Hilton Berkeley
4.0 star property
Telegraph District, 3.2 mi from Kensington
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,006 reviews)
"Excellent location, charming hotel."
United States
Kirsi
$184 nightly
The price is $211
Dec 2 - Dec 3
Total with taxes and fees
Graduate by Hilton Berkeley

17. Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco
4.0 star property
10.1 mi from Kensington
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,914 reviews)
"Great stay great location just awesome"
United States
Raul
$160 nightly
The price is $189
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

18. Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf
4.0 star property
10.3 mi from Kensington
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,352 reviews)
"Very comfortable stay in a well maintained modern property ideally situated close to Fisherman's Wharf and both cable car and tram terminals to explore the city."
United Kingdom
Graham
$179 nightly
The price is $211
Nov 25 - Nov 26
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf

19. Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel

Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
4.0 star property
11.2 mi from Kensington
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,737 reviews)
"Very convenient location would stay again"
United States
Elizabeth
$147 nightly
The price is $173
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel

20. Hotel Caza Fisherman´s Wharf

Hotel Caza Fisherman´s Wharf
4.0 star property
10.4 mi from Kensington
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,636 reviews)
"perfect location, friendly staff, great rooms and price, safe"
United States
Allyson
$155 nightly
The price is $183
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Caza Fisherman´s Wharf
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels in Kensington

Property
Star rating
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
A compact hotel room with a kitchenette, a bed, and a view of the outdoors.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Berkeley by IHG
2.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,000 reviews
View
A bar area with a long counter, multiple stools, and shelves stocked with bottles.
Hotel Shattuck Plaza
4.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,414 reviews
View
An outdoor patio area with a fire pit, seating, and a pergola structure.
HYATT house Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area
3.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,441 reviews
View
An outdoor seating area with wicker furniture, a glass-top fire pit, and potted plants.
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
4.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
7,760 reviews
View
An outdoor seating area with wicker furniture, fire feature, and umbrellas.
Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge
3.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,310 reviews
View

Where to stay in Kensington

Find the best Kensington areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kensington
Learn more about Kensington

Downtown Oakland

Central business district with a mix of residential, retail, and office spaces, Downtown Oakland offers an Entertainment District, historic theaters, Oakland Museum, and outdoor retail mall. Easily accessible via BART and AC Transit.

Downtown Berkeley

Take time in Downtown Berkeley to visit attractions like Historic Berkeley and UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at Downtown Berkeley Station to see more of the city.

Albany

The seaside views and shopping are a few reasons travelers visit Albany. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Berkeley Marina and UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall are a few top sights nearby.

Piedmont

Forested hills, lakes and leafy parks surround an upscale city, whose impressive villas provide stunning views of the countryside.

West Oakland

Major West Coast port and trade center, this bustling area boasts the busiest port in Northern California, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of coastal terrace prairie, oak woodland, and north coastal scrub.

Top Kensington Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Kensington

Top reasons to visit Kensington

  • Outdoor Adventures: Kensington offers scenic trails and urban parks, perfect for hiking and family outings.
  • Cultural Experiences: Explore local art, history, and community events that showcase Kensington's vibrant culture.
  • Proximity to Berkeley: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of nearby Berkeley, with diverse dining and entertainment options.
  • Access to San Francisco: A short drive leads to iconic attractions and stunning views of the city.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from pet-friendly hotels to business-focused stays for a comfortable experience.

Find great hotels near Kensington

In Kensington, Berkeley, you'll discover a variety of hotel accommodations designed to enhance your stay. From pet-friendly options to business-themed services, the area offers a range of choices including the Kensington Park Hotel and other notable establishments. Whether you're seeking comfort, convenience, or a unique experience, Kensington's hotels provide everything you need for a memorable getaway.

  • Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, this 4-star hotel caters to adventurous travelers seeking a vibrant city experience. With a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA guests, Hotel Riu Plaza offers a range of adventure sports and recreational activities nearby, including hiking and biking rentals. The modern accommodations provide comfort and convenience, making it an ideal base for exploring the exciting attractions of San Francisco. Its prime city center location also ensures easy access to local dining and entertainment options, creating a memorable vacation experience.
  • Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Located in the bustling shopping district, this 4-star hotel is perfect for those who love to shop and explore city life. Club Quarters Hotel offers a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA guests and is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides. Guests appreciate the hotel’s central location, which places them within walking distance of various shops, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features comfortable accommodations and provides a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay, ensuring a delightful home base for your San Francisco adventure.
  • The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: This elegant 4.5-star hotel stands as a landmark in the city, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury and convenience. Located in the shopping district, The Westin St. Francis is ideal for business travelers and shoppers alike. With comprehensive business services, including meeting rooms and conference spaces, it caters to those on work trips while also providing easy access to a plethora of retail options. Emphasizing comfort and style, the hotel creates a welcoming atmosphere for all guests, including LGBTQIA travelers seeking an upscale urban retreat.

Where to stay near Kensington

Discover the charm of Kensington, California, where outdoor adventures and cultural experiences await. Enjoy scenic strolls through the neighborhood, then venture to nearby Berkeley for vibrant city life and dining. A short drive takes you to San Francisco, offering breathtaking city views and iconic attractions. Explore family-friendly parks, friendly locals, and the rich urban atmosphere that surrounds Kensington, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable memories.

  • Berkeley: Nestled in the heart of the East Bay, Berkeley is a vibrant city known for its rich culture and intellectual spirit. With its historic university, the University of California, Berkeley, the city attracts visitors year-round, though peaks occur in March to April and July. Here, you can explore a variety of cultural attractions, including theaters, museums, and recreational areas. The marina offers stunning views and a chance to relax by the water, while the lively local dining scene showcases diverse culinary delights. Berkeley is a prime destination for those seeking a mix of education, entertainment, and outdoor experiences.
  • Thousand Oaks: Located just 0.9 miles from Kensington, Thousand Oaks is a charming neighborhood that invites families and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors flock here from June to August, enjoying its educational venues and theatrical performances. The area is characterized by its proximity to a historic college university and beautiful bay views. Whether you're hiking in nearby parks or exploring local arts and crafts, Thousand Oaks offers a delightful atmosphere for an outdoor adventure and community engagement.
  • El Cerrito: Situated 1 mile from Kensington, El Cerrito is a welcoming city that combines outdoor beauty with urban convenience. Visitors often arrive in April, July, and September to enjoy its parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. El Cerrito's proximity to educational institutions and its bustling tourist precinct make it an attractive spot for families and city explorers. With easy access to the bay and a variety of local amenities, El Cerrito is perfect for those seeking a blend of city life and outdoor fun.

Things to do near Kensington

Kensington, California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy educational activities, explore recreational areas, and even hit the nearby golf course. With its charming environment and community-oriented attractions, Kensington offers a delightful vacation destination for those looking to unwind and experience local culture.

Shopping

For shopping in Kensington, visit Oakland City Center, 7 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and businesses. Closer by, at 5 miles, the Public Market Emeryville presents a lively atmosphere. Don't miss Main Street, 10 miles away, perfect for family-friendly shopping and dining experiences.

Recreation

Tilden Regional Park, just a mile from Kensington, offers tranquil trails, serene picnic spots, and beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxation and wellness. For sports enthusiasts, Oracle Park, located 11 miles away, immerses you in electrifying game-day energy, while the nearby Fox Theater, 7 miles away, provides vibrant entertainment options.

Adventure

Explore the Marina Bay Trail, a scenic hiking trail 5 miles from Kensington, offering breathtaking views and an adventurous outdoor experience. For climbing enthusiasts, Berkeley Iron Works is located 4 miles away, featuring thrilling climbing challenges. Perimeter Road, 9 miles from Kensington, provides a fantastic outdoor atmosphere for various activities.

Nightlife

Catch a show at the Greek Theater, just 3 miles away, for a mix of culture and romance. For a cinematic experience, visit the Paramount Theatre, 7 miles from Kensington. If you're in the mood for fun, head to Playland Not At The Beach, 2 miles away, for arcade adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kensington

To save money on your trip to Kensington, plan your visit during the off-peak months of February or November to December when hotel prices drop. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Utilize Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining the One Key membership program can also provide exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future bookings. Finally, explore free activities in the area to further enhance your experience on a budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kensington are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kensington is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Kensington is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to quickly find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Kensington hotel reservation with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Kensington

Kensington, Berkeley, California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking cultural experiences. Visitors can explore urban parks, jetty piers, and nearby islands, offering a mix of nature and city life. With a variety of attractions designed for culture lovers and adventure seekers alike, Kensington promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse activities and experiences.

  • Pier 39: Experience the lively atmosphere of Pier 39, located 10 miles from Kensington. This jetty offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, lively street performances, and a chance to see sea lions lounging by the docks. Enjoy shopping, dining, and various attractions that make it a perfect spot for families and tourists alike.
  • University of California, Berkeley: Just 3 miles away, the historic University of California, Berkeley boasts beautiful campus architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Explore its museums, gardens, and the iconic Sather Tower while soaking in the rich academic atmosphere.
  • Jack London Square: Located 8 miles from Kensington, Jack London Square is a modern waterfront destination filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or catch a ferry to explore nearby areas.

Best time to go to Kensington

The best time to visit Kensington can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Kensington falls in September, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Kensington falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.4°F (13.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.9°F (14.4°C)No RainSunnyLowAverage
June61.9°F (16.6°C)No RainSunnyHighAverage
July63.0°F (17.2°C)No RainSunnyHighAverage
August64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
October62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyLowSlightly High
November55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kensington

Visiting Kensington, Berkeley, California, is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is approximately 21 miles away, with excellent hotel options such as the Fairmont San Francisco and the Palace Hotel, both 12 miles from SFO, offering shuttle services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is closer at about 14 miles, with luxurious accommodations like 1 Hotel San Francisco and Claremont Resort & Club, both within 11 and 10 miles, respectively. Additionally, San Jose International Airport (SJC) is about 42 miles away, featuring hotels like Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, accessible from the airport. Choose the airport that best suits your travel plans for a smooth arrival.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Kensington that travelers recommend?
In Kensington, one hotel that travelers frequently recommend is the Terrace Inn and Suites.

The 3-star Terrace Inn and Suites, with a rating of 7.8, offers complimentary self-parking and air conditioning. Guests often mention the cleanliness of the rooms. This hotel is conveniently located near several points of interest, including Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, just 1.1 miles away, and Playland Not At The Beach, a mere 0.1 miles from the property.
What are the best budget hotels in Kensington?
For budget-friendly accommodations in Kensington, consider the Budget Inn and the Terrace Inn and Suites.

The Budget Inn offers convenient features such as free self-parking, complimentary WiFi, and air conditioning. It is located near several natural attractions, including the Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, just 1.0 mile away, and the Point Isabel Dog Park, 1.2 miles away.

Another option is the 3-star Terrace Inn and Suites, which has a rating of 7.8. Guests frequently mention the clean rooms. Like the Budget Inn, it also provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and air conditioning, and is situated close to the Point Isabel Regional Shoreline and the Albany State Marine Reserve.
When is the best time to go to Kensington?
The best time to visit Kensington is during the late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

During these months, you'll experience comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, with less chance of rain than in the winter. This period is superb for enjoying the local parks, exploring the Berkeley Rose Garden nearby, or taking scenic drives along the Berkeley Hills. For couples looking for a relaxing getaway, the comfortable weather allows for leisurely strolls and al fresco dining.

Families will also find these times suitable as the mild weather is conducive to outdoor excursions without the intensity of summer heat or the chill of winter. You can comfortably visit nearby attractions like the Lawrence Hall of Science or enjoy a picnic at Tilden Regional Park.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Kensington.
How much is the nightly rate at a Kensington hotel?
Prices for hotels in Kensington often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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