10 Best Airport Hotels: Stay close to the Way Home

Marketed as a mix of "French elegance and California charm," the Sofitel definitely nails the urban chic of the tech area while mixing in some French touches. What sets this hotel apart from the rest is its signature restaurant, Bay 23, which features inventive dishes of California and French culture. If you're more interested in California than French, nearby Redwood City offers some locally popular fish shacks that will be easier on the wallet. All the expected amenities are covered here, including wi-fi. If you're looking for an airport hotel with an international flavor, check out the Sofitel San Francisco Bay.

From the warm cookie that every hotel guest receives upon arrival, to their "CARE" (Create a Rewarding Experience") program, the Doubletree Hotel SFO does everything it can to be not just another airport hotel. This chain really pushes the "little touches" approach, with fine bath products from Crabtree and Evelyn and "Sweet Dreams" linens and bedsheets that promise a full night's sleep. The onsite Eforea spa offers three distinct spa packages: The Essentials Journey ("The Body of Science and Mind"); The Escape Journey ("The Healing Power of Nature"); and The Men's Journey ("The Ultimate Repair Shop"). In the end, if you find this just another airport hotel, you certainly can't blame the Doubletree for lack of effort.

This 340-suite Mediterranean-style hotel was built in 1986 and renovated in 1996. Guests will enjoy the amenities that include indoor pool, sauna, gym, whirlpool, in-room wet bar, microwave and refrigerator, in-house restaurant, and complimentary breakfast. Located on San Francisco Bay, two miles from San Francisco International Airport, and 17 miles from downtown and Moscone Convention Center. Airport shuttle available. And the town of Burlingame is worth a visit, even if your primary reason for traveling was San Francisco. After a hurly burly day of walking up and down the hills of San Francisco, there's nothing more relaxing than strolling down the quaint streets of Burlingame.

If your airport hotel is just a place to flop between your flights, the extra expense and amenities of the Crowne Plaza Hotel might not interest you. But if you want those uncommon touches, like a full-service beauty salon complete with classic barbers full of San Francisco tales, be sure to check out the Crowne. Since this airport list is using convenience and affordability as important criteria, the Crowne is farther down on the list. If your goal is to pamper yourself from head to foot, be sure to check out 10 Best's list of luxury hotels, including the impeccable Palace Hotel.

Searching for hotels near the San Francisco airport often calls to mind chain hotels with nondescript accommodations. Not so at the Inn at Oyster Point, a charming Cape Cod-style hotel minutes from the airport and overlooking the bay. A host of complimentary amenities includes breakfast delivered to your guest room, Wi-Fi access and an airport shuttle service. The executive boardroom and on-site restaurant add a touch of class to an already top-notch hotel. If you drove up and down the Bay and got tired of the larger hotel chains that look close to identical to one another, check out the Inn at Oyster Point.

What separates Hampton Inn and Suites from other airport hotels is its vicinity to spectacular San Francisco Bay hiking, including lovely Coyote Point, just a mile away. It's a good hotel for those who want to fall out of bed and into bird watching, kayaking, or immediate outdoor exercise. And it doesn't skimp on any of the complimentaries, either, such as breakfasts and rides to the airport. Hampton Inns are generally smaller than its larger, more corporate competitors, so travelers who desire a more personal feel to their hotel accommodations should check out the Hampton Inn and Suites in Burlingame.

Convenience and comfort are the norm for guests of the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront. This full-service hotel's amenities include on-site dining, stunning bay views, meeting and event space and a complimentary airport shuttle. The property is pet friendly, an unusual though convenient attribute for a full-service hotel. Accommodations include Internet access, flat screen TVs, pillow top mattresses and Bath & Body Works amenities. An indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center cater to health-minded guests. Besides the gym, though, you can't beat a morning walk around the Bay. If you're traveling during the summer, don't let the heavy fog discourage you.

You can expect convenient amenities and comfortable accommodations at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport. This hotel's guests enjoy on-site dining, high-speed Internet access and a complimentary airport shuttle, not to mention guest rooms with pillow top mattresses and flat screen TVs. Over 52,000 square feet of meeting space and a focus on sustainable practices put the Hyatt Regency a cut above other hotels in the area. Like the Hilton, the Hyatt has a tradition of great service and a true commitment to its clientele. Whether you are traveling for business or for pleasure, the Hyatt staff will be eager to meet your unique needs.

The aptly named Bay Landing Hotel boasts spacious accommodations and stunning bay views, but this San Francisco airport hotel's perks don't end there. Guests also enjoy a free continental breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi access and an airport shuttle. Flexible meeting space and an outdoor terrace add a unique touch to this family-owned property, which is close enough to the airport to watch planes landing, but just far enough away not to be bothered by the noise. Quick access to the Bay for morning walks or romantic sunset views make this "airport hotel" not just a place to wait for your flight out.

Travelers searching for hotels near the San Francisco Airport will find all the amenities they need at the Hilton Garden Inn, plus a few unexpected perks. Guests can wake up to a cooked-to-order breakfast or dine on regional specialties at the on-site restaurant. Business travelers are sure to appreciate free Wi-Fi access and a 24-hour remote printing service, as well. A complimentary local shuttle provides transportation to the airport and local businesses. What sets this hotel apart from the other hotels is the tried and trued Hilton brand. If you are unsatisfied with your stay in any way, let the staff know.