San Francisco Travel Recommendations

San Francisco is a city of contrasts – fog-covered hills and sunlit waterfronts, historic neighborhoods alongside cutting-edge technology. With deep cultural roots and a vibrant creative and tech scene, it’s a place that rewards both planning and wandering. This guide is here to help you make the most of NEARCON and your time in SF.

SF is served by two main airports:

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – The main international airport, ~30 minutes from the event venue or 1 hour by BART.
Oakland International Airport (OAK) – Often cheaper but ~40 minutes away.

While NEARCON is not arranging a room block, here are a few hotel suggestions near the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture:

Infinity Hotel San Francisco, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (~8 minute car ride)

The hotel is located in the Marina District. Guests have easy access to some of the city’s top shopping, dining and entertainment options.

San Francisco Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf

Located at the crossroads of North Beach and Fisherman’s Wharf, this hotel offers seamless access to two of San Francisco’s most celebrated neighborhoods

Hotel Zoe (~10 minute car ride)

Hotel Zoe is a modern boutique hotel located in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, steps from Pier 39, Alcatraz Tours, and the waterfront.

The easiest way to get around SF is usually a mix of Uber/Lyft + walking, with public transit filling in the gaps.

Uber / Lyft – Easy and reliable.
Walking – Many neighborhoods are best explored on foot (but expect hills!).
Public Transit – Muni (buses + light rail) and BART are solid for getting around.

Visa: Check U.S. visa requirements well in advance.
Invitation Letters: Available upon request if needed for travel.
Weather: February is mild but cool. Bring layers for chilly mornings and evenings, and be prepared for some rain.
Currency: USD. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Don’t miss iconic sights like the:

Golden Gate Bridge
Alcatraz Island
Painted Ladies
Ferry Building Marketplace
Chinatown (oldest Chinatown in North America)

If you have a few extra days, be sure to check out the following:

Muir Woods – Walk among giant redwoods (30 minutes north).
Sausalito – Charming waterfront town across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Napa or Sonoma – World-class wine country (~1–1.5 hours away).
Big Sur (day trip or overnight) – Dramatic coastal views to the south.