Fleet Week 2025

Question

Hello, I’m looking for some advice regarding fleet week please. My husband and I are travelling from Scotland to California in Oct for his 60th birthday. We will be in SF between the 10th and 14th Oct, over Fleet week. We are excited about this as have an interest in the military. I am looking for suggestions from locals please as to which areas in the city to look for hotels. I was thinking a hotel with a bay view would be nice but am a bit concerned they may be too noisy at night. Any thoughts? (Would like a bit of luxury as it’s a big birthday). We may also take a boat tour to watch the blue angels… is this worthwhile? All advice most welcome, thank you.

Answer

Fleet Week in San Francisco is a fantastic experience, especially if you have an interest in military events. Since you'll be visiting between October 10–14, you’ll have the chance to see air shows, ship tours, and other special events. Here’s some detailed guidance for your stay and activities.

Hotel Locations

For luxury accommodations with convenient access to Fleet Week events and bay views, consider areas along the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf. Both are central for walking to many of the festivities. A bay view is beautiful, but you should note that air shows and nightlife can create some noise, especially from late morning to early evening when the Blue Angels practice or perform.

Embarcadero/Downtown: Offers luxury hotels with views of the Bay Bridge and easy access to Pier 39 and Ferry Building. Hotels here are generally quieter at night compared to those right on the waterfront of Fisherman’s Wharf.
Fisherman’s Wharf: Very close to the action and walking distance to many Fleet Week activities, but it can be crowded and noisy during the day and evening. Some higher-end hotels may provide soundproofing.
Nob Hill or Union Square: A short cab or ride to the waterfront; quieter at night and offers a mix of luxury options. You won’t have direct bay views, but it’s a peaceful choice.

Watching the Blue Angels

The Blue Angels are a highlight of Fleet Week. You have several options:

From Shore: Crissy Field, Marina Green, and the Embarcadero are popular spots. Arrive early for good viewing spots.
From a Boat Tour: Highly recommended if you want a unique perspective of the aerial display. Boat tours allow you to get closer to the bay and see the planes maneuver over the water. Make reservations early as these fill up fast during Fleet Week.
Combination: Some people enjoy both—shore viewing for convenience and a short boat tour for a more immersive experience.

Other Tips

Book your hotel as early as possible; Fleet Week attracts many visitors, and rates can increase.
Check local transportation options, such as ride-shares or MUNI, to avoid parking difficulties near the waterfront.
If you want quieter hotel nights but still a luxury experience, prioritize soundproofed rooms and perhaps a higher floor with bay views, which can help reduce noise.
Plan other activities like Alcatraz tours, Golden Gate walks, or Ferry Building visits around Fleet Week events to maximize your experience.

Overall, staying along the Embarcadero or Fisherman’s Wharf gives you the convenience of proximity to Fleet Week activities, but for quieter nights, Nob Hill or Union Square with a short ride to the bay may be a better balance between luxury and comfort.

Fleet Week 2025

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