Fireworks explode over the San Francisco city skyline. — New Year's Eve fireworks over San Francisco.

Best Areas to Stay
In San Francisco for New Year's Eve

By Carol High

Ring in the new year at any of these fantastic San Francisco accommodations.

If you're looking to celebrate the New Year in San Francisco, you're in luck. There are tons of fun activities and events taking place throughout the city to help get 2023 off to a fun start. If you are looking to stay in the city to attend special performances and late-night parties, you will want to book your room in advance as nearby hotels fill up quickly.

Where to Stay to Watch Fireworks: Embarcadero

Every year. the city puts on a spectacular fireworks show. Shot from barges located between the south side of the Agriculture Building and the north side of Pier 14, the 15-minute show begins at midnight on New Year's Eve. If you're looking to get the best view of the fireworks, you'll want to head for the cruises, hotels and restaurants along the Embarcadero waterfront. Attend a nearby party or stay in a neighborhood hotel. You're sure to have a memorable experience.

New Year's Eve cruises and parties include: A New Year's Eve fireworks yacht party on the San Francisco Spirit, a Speakeasy Cruise, and many more festivities.

Nearby hotels include:

Where to Stay for a New Year's Eve Pub Crawl: Marina

If you don't want to be tied down to one location when you ring in the New Year, try a pub crawl in the Marina. There are plenty of fun pubs and parties perfect for large groups of friends. But no matter where you decide to go, when the night is over, a nearby place to stay is always key.

Nearby parties include: One of the country's best New Year's Eve parties is held at Fort Mason. Or, indulge in casino games at The Dorian's James Bond-themed New Year's Eve celebration.

Nearby inns include:

Where to Stay for a New Year's Eve Hotel Party: Union Square, SoMa and Financial District

Some of the biggest New Year's Eve parties are taking place in Union Square's many hotels, so it would make sense to book a room in the same hotel, or in one nearby. Fortunately this neighborhood has plenty of hotels within walking distance. Another great reason to stay in Union Square: It's a transportation hub, making it easy to get anywhere else in San Francisco.

Nearby parties include: The Cityscape Lounge's Countdown with a View, the International Ball at the W Hotel, and the rooftop at Sens Restaurant in the Embarcadero.

Some nearby hotels include:

Where to Stay for a New Year's Eve Performance: North Beach and Civic Center

Whether you are looking to close out 2022 with a bang at an event or looking for an alternative to the traditional party, check out North Beach and Civic Center. Both neighborhoods are sure to have fun parties to take you well into 2023. Bonus points: When you wake up in the morning craving a New Year's Day brunch, you'll find yourself near popular brunch spots.

Nearby parties include: Kaskade New Year's Eve show at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, and the Asian Art Museum's Annual Japanese New Year's Bell-Ringing Ceremony.

Nearby hotels include:

Carol High

Carol is a digital marketer creating media-rich content for global audiences covering travel, San Francisco and the Bay Area, food & drink, outdoor experiences, and cross-cultural storytelling. Her work is found in the San Mateo Daily Journal and The Skyline View (Skyline College). Before travel writing, her professional background included working internationally in business, nonprofits, and government. She lives in San Francisco with her family and regularly explores the parks in her city, especially untamed McLaren Park.