San Francisco Travel Forum

I will be finishing my California holiday, arriving in San Francisco on April 07/08 and flying back to Canada on April 10, 2008. At this time, we do not have a motel booked. We now hear of a protest that will take place in SF on April 09th. Does anyone know how large this protest will be or where it will take place? I would like to stay near Fisherman's Wharf, but would it be wiser to book accomodation out near the airport to avoid the crowds? Will this be a safe protest? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks

Protests are usually held near City Hall, UN Plaza or other downtown streets, i.e. Montgomery, Market or somewhere nearby. You might be referring to an organized labor group in April, which maybe a fun snap-shot for your camera. Protesters must first get a permit from the city, SF hands them out like candy. I would say leave your "W" or "Union First" gear at home and you will be safe strolling Fisherman's Wharf, relatively speaking.

The airport area is not conveniently located to visit most of the "tourist" areas of San Francisco. The North Beach is one of the areas of The City that is much nearer the Wharf, and the waterfront attractions. If you will list how many people are in your group, their ages, what your travel interests are, and a general lodging budget, more specific answers will be possible. Gary

I am referring to the China/Tibet protesting the Olympics. We are worried that the protest could be quite large and crowded. There is just my husband and myself. We were hoping to spend a couple of days relaxing, maybe strolling around Fishermans Wharf or the beach or hit some antique shops.

That could be a rather large gathering, but as the other poster mentioned would probably be somewhat localized. If you are interested in the North Beach area, you may look at the following hotel link: www.wsisf.com. The North Beach has quite a few restaurants, the City Lights Bookstore, the Sentinel Building, and a nice jazz club. You will have fairly easy access to the Wharf, and the cable cars. You could also bike down the waterfront, through Fort Mason, all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge. Regardless of where you wish to stay, I would make my hotel reservations now. A note if you are planning on renting a car: You are probably better off NOT DOING SO !. San Francisco has pretty reliable transport options. If you stay in North Beach, with the situation at hand, one of the airport shuttles will get you to your hotel most easily. Cars also become a burden as parking is at a premium in The City, and may be an additional expense above the cost of your hotel. On beaches: San Francisco has them, they are not, however, of the sandy, sun-bathing variety for the most part. The water temperaure is also around 55 degrees year round. If you are around the water, it will probably still be cool enough for a pretty heavy jacket, especially at night. Gary

If you do opt for staying in the airport area, you could always move your travel focus southward. Instead of the Wharf, you could visit Santa Cruz, and Monterey. There are several beaches along Highway 1. Gary

SF cab easily make room for some protesters and keep daily life going. If you take the advice given above and don't take a car into the city, rely on the good public transit system and you should be OK. And as also stated, don't go to the beach expecting to go sunbathing. At best take some layers and have a nice walk. From Baker Beach you can walk all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge and have great views (wear blinders if you are offended by nudism). Ocean Beach along the west side is extensive and often windy. There won't be any protesters here! Enjoy a drink or lunch from the Beach Chalet Brewery and Restaurant, one of our favorite stops in that part of the City.

You'll be safe, don't worry about it =)