What used to be San Francisco’s iconic Sir Francis Drake has been rebirthed into the newly refreshed Beacon Grand.
Located in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, steps away from Union Square, the Beacon Grand melds a modern appearance with Renaissance Revival architecture.
Award-winning design studio KKAD heralded the 418-key hotel revamp, intending to foster a sense of European opulence into the overall aesthetic.
The hotel earns its name at first entrance: Guests ascend a grand central staircase to the lobby level, kitted out in marble flooring and high ceilings with original-yet-restored chandeliers. The lobby takes on a masculine look, with shades of dark blues lathering walls.
One of the most convivial gathering spots in the hotel is the Beacon Lounge. Located on a mezzanine peering out at the lobby, this handsome restaurant and bar features deft molding work, handmade rod-iron railings, inlaid ceilings, and an original fireplace plus mantle from its former life.
When it comes to the 418 rooms, KKAD spruced up each one to form a union between old-world artisanship and contemporary flair: European oak floors, custom wallpaper paying homage to San Francisco, decorative walls, high ceilings, and city views are what you can expect when spending the night here.
Exercise enthusiasts will appreciate the Beacon Grand’s knockout gym, equipped with Peloton bikes, treadmills, weights, and more.
Downtown nucleus Union Square, storied Italian-American neighborhood North Beach, and culturally-rich Chinatown are just a short distance away from the hotel.
Top Takeaways
Location: San Francisco, CA
Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: A timeless San Francisco staple in the center of it all.
Amenities: Wi-Fi, fitness center, restaurant, bar, and private parking
What’s Nearby?: Union Square, San Francisco Art Museum, North Beach, Coit Tower, Chinatown, Nob Hill, and Asian Art Museum
Food + Drink: Beacon Lounge serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Any neighborhood recs?: Yes, walk over to San Francisco’s North Beach area — a twenty-minute stroll — and pop into famous bookstore City Light Books, eat Italian food at one of the area’s outdoor patios, and head to the nearby Coit Tower which boasts sweeping views of the 7×7 city.
Our favorite part of the hotel: Its location — you have Union Square and several of San Francisco’s charming neighborhoods at your fingertips. Alongside its convenient cross streets, the hotel’s grand entrance cultivates an eye-catching aesthetic.
Room count: 418
Pricing: Rates start at $207/night
Closest Airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
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