Find hotels near Blue Heron Lake, San Francisco from $73

Top reasons to visit Stow Lake

• Scenic Boating: Rent rowboats or pedal boats at the Stow Lake Boathouse and enjoy serene views while paddling across the lake.
• Stunning Sunsets: Experience picturesque sunsets that enhance the beauty of Stow Lake and its surroundings.
• Nature and Wildlife: Observe local wildlife, including blue herons, in the tranquil environment of Golden Gate Park.
• Cultural Exploration: Engage with the vibrant art scene and nearby theaters for a blend of culture and recreation.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for families and travelers.

Find great hotels near Stow Lake

Discover the perfect accommodation options near Stow Lake, where a variety of hotels and motels await to suit every traveler's preferences. From budget-friendly stays to luxurious retreats, you'll find accommodations that cater to business needs and leisure activities alike. Enjoy easy access to attractions like the Blue Heron Boathouse and other charming spots, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in beautiful San Francisco.

• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway, an IHG Hotel: Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway offers a blend of comfort and convenience for business and leisure travelers alike. With a 3.5-star rating, the hotel features a modern CityTheme and provides essential business amenities such as multiple meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, and conference space. Located 3 miles from Stow Lake, guests appreciate the central location, allowing easy access to the city's attractions. The vibrant atmosphere and professional services make it a reliable choice for those on the go.
• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Experience the excitement of San Francisco at the Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf, a 4-star hotel that perfectly captures the Beach and Adventure themes. Situated 4 miles from Stow Lake, this hotel provides direct access to the beach and is surrounded by shopping opportunities. Guests can engage in various adventure sports, with nearby options for bicycle rentals and hiking. The hotel’s lively atmosphere and proximity to both the beach and shopping district make it a fantastic choice for active travelers seeking exploration and relaxation.
• The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: A luxurious 4.5-star hotel, The Westin St. Francis offers an elegant retreat 4 miles from Stow Lake. With a focus on Family, Business, and Luxury themes, this hotel caters to diverse needs. It features spacious conference spaces and meeting rooms for business travelers, while also providing child-friendly amenities such as babysitting services and cribs. Its prime location on Union Square places guests in the heart of the city’s vibrant culture, making it an ideal choice for families and business visitors seeking comfort and sophistication.

Discover the best areas to stay near Stow Lake

Exploring Stow Lake offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and urban charm in San Francisco. Nestled within Golden Gate Park, this small lake is perfect for a family-friendly day out, surrounded by gorgeous waterfront views. Nearby, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the Bay Area. Whether you're strolling through the park or visiting local attractions, Stow Lake is an ideal base for your California adventure.

• San Francisco: San Francisco is a vibrant metropolis known for its iconic landmarks and diverse culture. Stow Lake is nestled within Golden Gate Park, making it a perfect starting point for exploration. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from June to August. Travelers enjoy a mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and urban experiences. Notable nearby attractions include shopping centers, sports facilities, and numerous parks, providing ample opportunities for leisure and exploration.
• Golden Gate: The Golden Gate neighborhood encompasses the stunning Golden Gate Park, where Stow Lake is located. This area is a hub for family outings and outdoor activities, welcoming visitors throughout the year, especially in the summer months. Visitors can indulge in educational experiences, shopping, and enjoy the beauty of urban parks and nearby beaches. Notable highlights include the scenic landscapes of the park, making it a fantastic spot for picnics, strolls, and nature appreciation.
• Richmond District: Just 0.8 miles from Stow Lake, the Richmond District offers a unique blend of outdoor experiences and urban life. This neighborhood also experiences consistent visitor numbers, peaking in the spring and summer. Families and outdoor enthusiasts can explore recreational areas, educational venues, and local shopping. The proximity to parks and beaches enhances its appeal, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a mix of city life and nature. Key attractions include lush green spaces and community events that highlight local culture.

Things to do near Stow Lake

Stow Lake in San Francisco offers a variety of activities for visitors, including paddle boating and rowing in scenic surroundings. You can rent rowboats or pedal boats at the Stow Lake Boathouse while enjoying picturesque sunsets. Additionally, the area is great for shopping and catching a performance at nearby theaters, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

Food and drinks

Enjoy a delightful meal at the Boathouse Cafe near Stow Lake, offering scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere. For a unique experience, visit the Cliff House, just 2 miles away, or the Anchor Brewing Company for local brews, about 4 miles from the lake.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Stow Lake, visit Ghirardelli Square, just 4 miles away, offering a mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment. Winery Collective, also 4 miles away, features unique local products. Main Street, located 7 miles away, provides a charming atmosphere for city-inspired shopping.

Recreation

At Chase Center, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events, just 5 miles from Stow Lake. Enjoy a round of golf at Harding Park Golf Course, located 3 miles away, or relax in the scenic outdoor environment of the Olympic Club, 4 miles from Stow Lake.

Adventure

Embark on the Coastal Trail, a scenic hiking path 2 miles from Stow Lake, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventure. For a unique experience, glide across the Union Square Ice Rink, located 4 miles away, or ride the historic cable car at Powell & Market, also 4 miles from Stow Lake.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Stow Lake by catching a show at the Orpheum Theatre, just 3 miles away, or enjoy a romantic film at the Castro Theatre, 2 miles away. For a family-friendly outing, visit the Morrison Planetarium, only 0.6 miles from Stow Lake.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stow Lake

To save money on your visit to Stow Lake, take advantage of the free entry and nearby attractions like Golden Gate Park and Pier 39. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of February or November to December, avoiding the peak summer season. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Utilize Expedia’s filters for budget and location, and consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stow Lake are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Stow Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Stow Lake hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• 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 Stow Lake

Stow Lake in San Francisco offers a delightful mix of attractions for visitors, including the picturesque Golden Gate Park and the historic boathouse. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the serene views of the blue heron lake and the gorgeous lake surroundings. With options for cultural exploration and outdoor activities, it's an ideal spot for families and travelers seeking a blend of history and nature.

• Golden Gate Park: Just 0.3 miles from Stow Lake, this expansive urban park offers a vibrant blend of family-friendly activities, scenic outdoor spaces, and a lively city atmosphere. Explore lush gardens, serene lakes, and cultural attractions like the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences.
• Pier 39: Located 5 miles away, this bustling jetty boasts spectacular views of the bay, charming shops, and lively street performances. Enjoy fresh seafood, watch sea lions basking in the sun, and experience the vibrant art scene that makes this destination a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Golden Gate Bridge: A mere 3 miles from Stow Lake, this iconic historic bridge is a symbol of San Francisco. Walk or bike across its stunning span for breathtaking views and rich cultural history, making it a must-visit landmark.

Best time to go to Stow Lake

Visitor numbers around Stow Lake is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Stow Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stow Lake falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Stow Lake falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.1°F (13.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stow Lake

Traveling to Stow Lake in San Francisco is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 12 miles away, with luxury accommodations like the Palace Hotel and Fairmont San Francisco offering shuttle services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is slightly further at 15 miles, featuring hotels such as Claremont Club & Spa and 1 Hotel San Francisco, both providing easy access to the airport. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 41 miles away, with nearby options like the Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto, ensuring smooth transport to the city and Stow Lake. Enjoy your visit!