The hype
Travelers love the comfortable 'Heavenly Beds' and the convenient shuttle, but consistently groan about the dated room interiors and high parking costs.
Westin San Francisco Airport
$150-300/ night
Book this if You're an aviation geek who wants to watch 747s land from your bed, or you need a reliable, no-nonsense crash pad with a heated pool before an early SFO flight.
Why People Love It
- Incredible runway views from Bay View rooms (perfect for plane spotting)
- Heated indoor pool and hot tub that are actually large enough to swim in
- Direct access to the Bay Trail for a scenic run or walk right across the street
Quick Take: A solid, slightly dated airport workhorse that charges premium fees for a convenient location and killer runway views.
Reviewed by @naelynette: I stayed here for a speaking gig and was shocked by how big the suites are—literally apartment-style. My favorite part was the waterfront path; taking a solo stroll to watch planes take off before my flight was the most relaxing travel hack ever.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'soundproof' windows are good, but if you're sensitive to noise, the roar of engines from SFO is still audible in runway-facing rooms.
- You are an aviation enthusiast (the plane spotting is world-class)
- You need a 24-hour gym and a real lap pool to decompress
- You want to walk/jog along the water without needing a car
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable but often 'on request'. Common areas are kept tidy.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean but dated. Grout lines show age, and tubs can drain slowly, but no major filth complaints.
- Maintenance: The building is showing its age. Expect scuffed baseboards, worn carpet edges, and occasional rattling AC units.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and high quality (Westin standard). No reports of stains or wear.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of Westin's signature 'White Tea' scent; rooms are generally neutral/fresh.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Jet engine roar (Runway/Bay View rooms)
- Hallway noise due to heavy turnover of guests
- HVAC units in older rooms can be rattly
Before you book
Good to know
- The free shuttle runs 24/7 every 15-20 minutes; pick-up is at the Hotel Shuttle island.
- Marriott Bonvoy members get free WiFi; otherwise it's ~$14.95/day.
- Breakfast at Grill & Vine is pricey ($30+); consider walking to Millbrae or grabbing Starbucks in the lobby.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential if you get a runway view)
- Swimsuit (the indoor pool is a highlight)
- Running shoes (for the Bay Trail right outside)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premium Bay View King (High Floor) for the best plane spotting
- Interior Corner Room (e.g., Room 441 series) for maximum quiet
- Westin Workout Room if you want a Peloton in your room (rare but available)
Rooms to avoid
- Low-floor rooms facing the highway (traffic noise + no view)
- Connecting rooms if you aren't using them (sound bleeds through doors)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper staying for business. Please assign a room on a high floor, away from the elevators. If available, an interior-facing corner room would be preferred to minimize runway noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the shuttle reliable?
Yes, it runs 24/7 every 15-20 minutes. However, it is often shared with the Aloft next door, so allow extra time during peak morning hours.
Can I leave my car there while I travel?
Yes, but official rates are high (~$48/night). Look for 'Park & Fly' packages or use third-party apps like SpotHero which often sell spots in the same lot for ~$15-20.
Is it noisy?
It's an airport hotel next to a major runway. Double-paned windows help, but you will hear planes. Ask for an interior room if silence is a priority.
Is there food nearby?
Yes! New England Lobster Market is a short walk/drive. Downtown Millbrae (Broadway) is 5 mins away with great Asian food options.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the indoor pool is heated and open year-round, typically 6am-11pm. There is also a hot tub.
Are there hidden fees?
Yes, a 'Destination Fee' of approximately $28.50 per night is added at check-in, covering things like shuttle access and bottled water.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk across the street to Bayfront Park for one of the best plane-spotting locations in the US.
- ✨
The 'Grill & Vine' bar has generous pours, but the food is standard hotel fare—order the burger if you're stuck.
- ✨
You can rent workout gear (shoes and clothes) for $5 if you forgot yours, thanks to the Westin Gear Lending program.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathrooms are surprisingly small for a 'luxury' brand—barely enough room to turn around in some.
💡You can sometimes book parking in the hotel's own lot via third-party apps for 60% less than the front desk rate.
💡The 'Bay View' is actually a 'Runway View'—amazing for geeks, loud for sleepers.
💡The lobby Starbucks closes early (often by 2-3pm), so don't count on it for an afternoon pick-me-up.
💡Housekeeping is often 'by request only' for shorter stays, so you might need to call for fresh towels.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Westin San Francisco Airport is located and what's nearby.