Need a hotel for San Fran in July

We are going to San Francisco in July. I have no idea where to stay. What part of the city? What hotel? This is our first trip. Any help would be appreciated!

BTW - probably don%26#39;t want to spend more than about $230/night for the hotel.

Need a hotel for San Fran in July

Are you a couple ?

Family?

Do you intend shopping as well as sightseeing ?

Will you have a car ? (best avoided if possible)

Normally I would recommend Union Square particularly for first timers but if you let us know some of the above this will help.

Need a hotel for San Fran in July

One couple + one adult and one teenager.

Not really shopping just sight seeing. Not getting a car. Want to see alcatraz, bridge, fisherman%26#39;s warf, etc....

Most people on this board will tell you to stay at Union Square which is a good option for first time visitors. It is the middle of the shopping district and if that%26#39;s not what you%26#39;re interested in then other areas may be more interesting to you.

1) Fisherman%26#39;s Wharf. It is *very* touristy. Tons of souvenier and t-short shops abound. But it is right on cable car lines, Pier 39, bike rentals and the Alcatraz Tour. Most big chains are represented (the Marriott just finished renovating). The Columbus Motor Inn comes recommended as it is just on the boundary of FW and a little quieter as a result.

2) Lower Pacific Heights. A little different area that most first time tourists might be interested in. Hotel Majestic or Kabuki (which is actually in Japantown which borders on Pac Heights). Both are close to the Fillmore St. neighborhood with many unique shops and restaurants.

3) Marina. There are many motor inns along Lombard St. from Van Ness to Lyon. These usually appeal to those who are driving because parking is provided. However, the location is very close to the Presidio, Crissy Field, Golden Gate Bridge, Exploratorium and the Marina and Cow Hollow neighborhoods. Like Pac Heights both have unique shops and restaurants. It%26#39;s also one easy and scenic bus ride to Golden Gate Park. The Cow Hollow Motor Inn, Coventry (these two are sister properties to the Columbus Motor Inn) or the Del Sol are possibilites.

Have fun.