Updated May 2023
Northern California’s wind-swept coastline, gorgeous national parks, and inherent spirit of adventure make it a destination unlike any other. And whether you’re a visitor wanting to explore the area beyond San Francisco, or a local looking for an easy backyard escape, NorCal has some amazing options. Check out HI USA’s collection of hostels up and down the Northern California coast to make your next getaway easy, affordable, and unforgettable.
1. To unplug and unwind: HI Point Reyes Hostel
If you’re looking for lodging near Point Reyes, we’ve got great news: HI Point Reyes lets you actually stay within the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore. The hostel, which is currently operating several private vacation-rental-style units, begins offering standard hostel-style accommodations once again in summer 2023.
Of all our hostels, this one feels the most like a secret, secluded getaway. But sitting about 90 minutes north of San Francisco and just a quick drive from foodie favorite town Point Reyes Station, it’s hardly isolated. The park itself is packed with wildlife, including a Tule elk population and some of the best bird-watching in the country, plus plentiful hiking and miles of cliff-backed beaches. The hostel is a Wi-Fi- and cell-signal-free zone, so whether you’re bunking up in a spacious dorm room or keeping it low-key in a private room, you’re sure to find some quiet and relaxation.
2 & 3. To sightsee from your room: HI Point Montara and HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostels
If you’ve ever wanted sleep in the shadow of a lighthouse or watch the ocean crashing from your bedroom window, HI Point Montara Lighthouse hostel and HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse hostel are must-visits. About 30 minutes and 60 minutes south of San Francisco, respectively, both hostels are located on the grounds of classic lighthouses, with easy beach access and endless photo ops. Near the adorable towns of Pacifica and Half Moon Bay, HI Point Montara offers a relaxing native plant garden and an on-site espresso. A bit further south, near Pescadero and Santa Cruz, HI Pigeon Point is famous for its on-site tide pools and cliff-side hot tub.
4. To stay in the city: HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel
If you’ve ever wanted to visit San Francisco, but could do without the traffic, tall buildings, and general hustle and bustle, HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf hostel is the perfect solution. Set in Fort Mason, a waterfront national park, this hostel gives you easy access to views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, and you’ll find walking and biking paths just outside the door for exploring the shores of the San Francisco Bay. At this just-off-the-beaten-path hostel, you’re more likely to hear a fog horn than a car horn, but you’ll still be within easy bus- or taxi-riding distance from all the city’s downtown attractions.