The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco

I had such a pleasant experience and the staff was a delight, everyone was amazing and the room was very clean and comfortable. Easy to walk to all near by places and close to public transportation. I will be staying here again. The bar was a major plus.

I celebrated my wedding reception at the Clift Royal Sonesta in October 2024, specifically in the stunning suite on the 14th floor. My wedding party and I enjoyed a five-day stay filled with festivities, and our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. We collaborated closely with Nevzat, the hotel’s director of catering and services, who was incredibly accommodating despite welcoming a new baby at the same time. As first-time visitors from Florida, we had numerous questions, all of which Nevzat answered with patience and enthusiasm. The hotel staff treated us like royalty, making us feel special throughout our stay. The suite was breathtaking, and the overall beauty of the hotel added to the magic of our day. During the reception, the staff was exceptionally attentive; the bartender ensured that drinks were always available, and the appetizers during cocktail hour were served promptly, leaving no guest with an empty hand. Our favorites were the crab cakes and empanadas. The three-course lunch was also served efficiently, much to our guests' delight. We couldn't be more satisfied with our experience at the Clift Royal Sonesta and eagerly anticipate our next visit.

1. Upon checkout, we were hit with a hidden “destination fee” of $40 per night—previously known as a “resort fee.” This charge used to be $28 per night, but has now increased to $40. For a four-night stay, that added an unexpected $160 to our bill. I had assumed it was a government tax, but in reality, it was a vague hotel-imposed “destination fee” that was never clearly disclosed. 2. This “destination fee” was not mentioned at check-in, nor were we told what it entailed. Only at checkout, after I Googled it, did I learn it included a $10 daily food and beverage credit. No one informed us of this benefit, so we never used it. By the time we found out, our airport transfer had already arrived. The receptionist offered no refund or alternative. My wife and I both work in hospitality, and this lack of transparency felt deceptive. We’ve never encountered a “resort fee” or “destination fee” tacked on in such a brazen way, without proper explanation. 3. At check-in, we were placed on the 17th floor next to an extremely loud service elevator. After a 25-hour journey from Asia, we had to request a new room, repack all our 6 bags, and carry them down stairs ourselves—no help was offered. Again, not the kind of service one expects from a hotel in this price range. 4. The area around the hotel was filled with homeless individuals, many clearly under the influence. We didn’t feel safe walking through the neighborhood with our young child. Some homeless person was being handed a warm drink, which may have encouraged them to stay near the property. Meanwhile, I was charged $7 for a latte—even though I unknowingly had a $40 food and beverage credit buried in the “destination fee” charged at checkout. 5. Apart from that, food in the area was overpriced, and although the room seemed well priced at first, the hidden fees changed that perception. Union Square was underwhelming and felt dull. If we return to San Francisco, we’ll be staying near the Wharf or closer to Golden Gate Park—much more vibrant and tourist-friendly areas. To the management and owner: you can do better!!! To guests: be careful, read reviews. Many guests have been surprised by the hidden fee.