HELP with hotels please in 2 weeks

Question

Don’t scold me too much, I am so kicking myself and fuming. All my intended hotels by fisherman wharf are sold out, my dates in FS whichever way I put it are over the weekend, Aug.8-11 and I am end up with nothing….there are some that are left but with parking go above what I was budgeting for them.

My options are:

OMNI, lucrative price point, but valley parking ($100/night) and we simply don’t do valet, ever, don’t judge and don’t waste your time commenting on valet aspect. Can I find secure parking myself nearby?

InterContinental, exact same as above, valet parking only. Can I find secure parking myself nearby?

Hotel Abri, decent hotel, ridiculously low rate, no parking at all…Reception was indifferent, said there are some garages nearby, but they cannot speak if it’s secured or prices for that matter.

Hotel Fiona, boutique hotel, seems like fitting for kids, it says has secured self-parking, probably my best option, just hesitant since for almost the same price point can get Omni. Location wise, all of the above, it seems like line F which if I am not mistaken is a cable car? Or a tram? 30 min, whatever, need to suck it up as I am a loser that missed my opportunity on good options.

Coventy Motor Inn, free parking, seems much closer to the action, exterior old, rooms seem upgraded and nice. but again when looking how to get without car, 20 min bus ride which makes no difference to me, this inn similar price point to OMNI and the like.

Hotel Del Sol, least favorite, don’t like anything about it, but is closer, parking extra, same price point as better quality hotels.

Must book tonight, please critique options

Answer

Booking in San Francisco for a weekend in August can be tricky, especially around Fisherman’s Wharf when demand is high. Your dilemma is common, and you are not alone in trying to balance price, parking, and location. Let’s break down your options carefully considering your priorities: self-parking, secure parking, location, and suitability for kids.

First, regarding the OMNI and InterContinental: both are high-quality hotels in great locations, but with valet-only parking. While some guests do find nearby public garages for self-parking, options can be limited and often expensive. Security varies, and it’s not guaranteed—some garages charge $50–$70 per night but may not offer the same level of security as hotel valet.

OMNI San Francisco: Excellent hotel, prime location near Union Square. If you want to avoid valet, nearby garages include SP+ garages or public lots on Sutter Street and nearby streets. Prices vary $40–$60/night. Safety is generally okay, but not guaranteed like hotel valet.
InterContinental: Luxury hotel in Union Square. Nearby garages similar to OMNI’s, but again security is not guaranteed. Walking distance to many attractions, but you will need to confirm availability at garages and check if they allow overnight parking.

Hotel Abri is more affordable and modern but has no official parking. You would need to park at nearby garages, and the staff cannot confirm security or rates. For two teens, the lack of hotel support may be inconvenient, especially if you return late or need flexibility.

Hotel Fiona seems like a strong contender. Boutique hotel with a fun vibe for families, secured self-parking included, which is a big advantage over OMNI and InterContinental given your preference to avoid valet. Location is decent, and you are likely to feel comfortable for your short stay. The fact that parking is included saves a lot of hassle.

Coventry Motor Inn offers free parking and decent rooms but is further from central attractions. A 20-minute bus ride is manageable but adds travel time. If you want to be closer to action without paying for expensive parking, it is an option, though the experience is less upscale than OMNI or Fiona.

Hotel Del Sol is the least appealing option for you. Parking is extra, rooms and atmosphere are less favorable, and it doesn’t offer strong advantages over the others.

Given your preferences—avoiding valet, secure parking, kid-friendly atmosphere, and reasonable location—here’s my critique:

Hotel Fiona: Best balance of all your priorities. Secured self-parking, boutique and family-friendly vibe, convenient location.
OMNI: Upscale option, but parking headache if avoiding valet. Only consider if you are willing to hunt for nearby garages and risk less security.
InterContinental: Similar to OMNI, high-end, valet-only parking, potential nearby garages—but same concerns.
Hotel Abri: Budget-friendly, modern, but parking uncertain and reception unhelpful.
Coventry Motor Inn: Free parking, decent rooms, minor compromise on proximity and ambiance.
Hotel Del Sol: Least desirable given your requirements.

My recommendation: Book Hotel Fiona tonight. It gives you secured self-parking, a friendly boutique environment suitable for kids, and saves the stress of searching for garages. OMNI or InterContinental could be tempting for brand or amenities, but the parking complication may outweigh the benefits. Coventry Motor Inn is a fallback if you prioritize free parking over style, but it’s slightly less central.

Additional tips:

Reserve any parking space in advance if possible at nearby garages, even if staying at hotels with valet, to compare costs.
Check public transit or cable car routes to central spots—lines like F and Powell-Hyde are convenient for sightseeing.
Book tonight to secure the rate, especially for Fiona—it’s likely your best value for comfort and convenience.

In short, Fiona appears to be your optimal choice for a stress-free, kid-friendly weekend in San Francisco without valet hassles.