San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco International Airport (SFO IATA) is the primary international airport of the San Francisco Bay Area in California. == Understand == San Francisco International Airport, commonly called by its IATA identifier, SFO, sits between San Francisco and San Jose, roughly 15 mi (24 km) south of downtown San Francisco, and 35 miles northwest of San Jose, at the western side of San Francisco Bay. The airport was built on landfill along the bay's edge in 1927 at a time when the environmental importance of wetlands was not understood. About 30 years later, the airport began to adopt what is now a centralized terminal design. The airport's terminal layout is easy to understand and easy to access from the outside through a single highway interchange on U.S. Highway 101. However, redevelopment and expansion options are severely constrained by wetlands to the west and the bay to the east, and environmental laws preventing the airport from further filling in either of them. Many interior spaces which were spacious and modern by 20th century standards are relatively short and crowded by 21st century standards. To make matters worse, San Francisco Bay's frequent fog often delays flights, especially during the morning hours. Within California, SFO's passenger traffic is second only to Los Angeles, and it is also among the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S. and the top 25 in the world, with more than 50 million passengers annually. Due to the Bay Area's importance as a global business, technology, and tourism hub, SFO is served by a vast array of domestic and international direct flights. Flights to major U.S. Western cities such as Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas, Denver, and Honolulu are among the most popular given SFO's central location. Daily flights also link SFO to most U.S. airline hubs. Internationally, it is well connected to the neighboring countries of Canada and Mexico, Central America, Europe, Middle East, Australia, New Zealand and Asia, with a heavy focus on East Asian routes. Two of the top ten longest flights in the world originate from San Francisco: Singapore and Bengaluru. With the exception of Boarding Area F in Terminal 3, all airport terminals either opened or were renovated after 2000. As of 2026, large parts of Boarding Area F and adjacent areas in Terminal 3 are undergoing renovation. The main access corridor for Boarding Area F was entirely closed off while its moving walkways are replaced. It was bypassed with temporary corridors on each side which do not have moving walkways, meaning that many passengers on certain United Airlines domestic flights will have long walk times to or from their gates. Some but not all of United's domestic operations have been relocated to Terminal 2. San Francisco International Airport website == Flights == The airport adopts the centralized terminal concept, with 4 terminals (3 domestic, 1 international) with 7 concourses in a circle surrounding parking and transportation facilities. Some domestic flights depart from the international terminal, and conversely, some international flights to Canada depart from the domestic terminals. San Francisco is a major hub for both domestic and international flights to the United States. United Airlines operates a domestic hub out of Terminal 3, and an international hub out of the International Terminal, while Alaska Airlines operates a hub from Terminal 1. Though it has a wide range of flights, it's well known for its weather delays. See also: view full list of airlines at San Francisco International Airport. There are additional smaller airports in the area that may be closer to where you are staying in the Greater S.F. Bay area. All airports in the area are served by Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian and Southwest from southern California, Hawaii and from all over the U.S. and by Volaris from Mexico and El Salvador: Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK IATA) Southwest connects San Francisco Bay Area to more destinations in the U.S. from OAK and SJC than from SFO. Other airlines going into Oakland are Allegiant, Azores SATA (from Terceira Island); Volaris, Viva Aerobus, JSX and Advanced Air (from Crescent City). It is closest and most accessible in the East Bay area. It is connected to SFO by BART. San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC IATA) Air Canada, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, British Airways, Delta, JetBlue, United, ZipAir (from Tokyo-Narita) serve only SJC and SFO. SJC is closer to Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Gilroy, Monterey (and Monterey Bay) and other places in the South Bay than from SFO. It is connected to SFO by BART and CalTrain via the Millbrae Station. See the 'By train' section in the below for details on getting to the other airports in the area from SFO by train. === Arrival procedures === The two sets of parallel runways at SFO are spaced too closely together for simultaneous arrivals during periods of low visibility. While in clear weather, both runways in a particular direction can be used, low clouds (a not uncommon weather pattern in the Bay Area) will require that arrivals use only one of the two. Should this happen, air traffic control will delay inbound traffic either in the air or at your departure airport. If you are making connections at SFO or have time-sensitive business there, allow for extra time should your incoming flight be delayed. International arrivals: All passengers arriving on international flights (except flights originating from airports with U.S. preclearance) must pass through immigration inspection in the International Terminal. Passengers will then collect their baggage and pass through customs. Those with onward flights, international and domestic, will proceed to check-in and security. Be prepared for at least a 30 minute wait. There is no international transit zone. Travellers terminating in San Francisco should follow signs for their desired ground transportation. If you have a connecting flight, and if your baggage has been tagged through to your next destination, follow the signs for "Connecting Flights" once you have collected your luggage from the carousel; there will be an area immediately after you clear customs where you can drop off your checked bags so you don't have to lug them all the way to the departure hall. Domestic arrivals: Passengers arriving on domestic flights will arrive on the departure level inside security. Those in transit will not need to clear security again as all gates are connected post-security. Travelers terminating in San Francisco exit and may proceed downstairs to baggage claim or ground transportation. The AirTrain is available upstairs. The regional BART train station is located on the departures level of the International Terminal and is also accessible via the AirTrain. Additional alternate airports for travelers going to Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, or the northern wine country without flying into the San Francisco Bay Area and then driving another 2+ hrs (or by other ground transport) to get there are: Most of the same airlines from the US, Canada, Mexico and El Salvador listed in the above also go directly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) (nearest to Lake Tahoe) from their cities of origin thus saving travelers the extra time and effort in getting to Sacramento or to Lake Tahoe. Southwest offers direct flights from SJC and OAK to Reno while United flies from SFO to Reno (1hr). United Express is the only airline to fly from SFO to Sacramento (0:54m). Travelers can also take the Capitol Corridor train from the downtown Oakland Jack London Station or Emeryville; or Greyhound from the West Oakland Station or the Salesforce Center in downtown San Francisco to Sacramento. Charles M Schultz-Sonoma County Airport (STS) Some travelers from within the U.S. may opt to fly directly into the famous California wine country in Sonoma and Napa Counties; or further north to Mendocino County in the North Coast, if they plan to spend their entire stay up there while saving time in picking up a rental car here and then drive up there (2+ hrs). Others may choose to fly into SFO or OAK, rent a car, and drive up there; or take a bus or shuttle to get there (see below under 'By public transportation') in order to save money on the airfare. This airport is only served by Avelo, Alaska Airlines, and American from Southern California and/or from other parts of the U.S. Groome Transportation operates regularly scheduled buses/vans from OAK and SFO (on two separate routes) to Charles M Shultz Airport in Sonoma County (Petaluma, Ronhert Park, Santa Rosa) while Marine Airporter operates connections to Marin County (Sausalito, San Rafael, Mill Valley, Novato) from SFO. === Departure procedures === Passengers must check in with their airline at their respective terminal. Once you pass the security checkpoint, all gates are connected with post-security walkways. As the check-in areas are narrow and there is only one security checkpoint for every boarding area, expect long lines during busy travel times! International travelers will not pass exit controls; however, airline staff will verify passport and applicable destination visa validity. If you are flying on United Airlines, keep in mind that domestic flights usually leave from Terminal 3, while international flights leave from the International Terminal. However, check-in for some domestic flights has been relocated to Terminal 2 due to construction. If you are flying out of Boarding Area B, some of those flights are occasionally reassigned to Boarding Area A in the international terminal, which is a long walk. == Ground transportation == === By train === If you are staying in San Francisco or the East Bay, your most convenient option is likely BART. The platform is at International Terminal G. From there, you can get to any of the terminals using the AirTrain. The following are stops to the other area airports, Amtrak and intercity bus connections from downtown San Francisco and Oakland: Daly City Station is the main transfer station from the Yellow (Millbrae-SFO-Antioch) or Red Line trains (Millbrae-SFO-Richmond) to the Blue (Daly City - OAK - Dublin/Pleasanton) or Green Line trains (Daly City - OAK - Berryessa/North San Jose). The Blue & Green Lines go by the West Oakland and Coliseum Stations (see below) while all lines go through downtown between Civic/UN Plaza and Embarcadero Stations. Embarcadero Station is the nearest station (on Market St) to the Salesforce Transit Center at 1st and Mission St in downtown. The Salesforce Transit center is the Central Bus station for Amtrak Thruway (to Emeryville), Greyhound/Flixbus, AC Transit (to Alameda County in East Bay), Golden Gate Transit (to Marin & Sonoma Counties); and WestCat Lynx (to Hercules Transit Center in Hercules, CA). West Oakland Station is the transfer point to Flixbus, Greyhound and/or Megabus in Oakland. Coliseum Station is the nearest station to Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK). From here one transfers from the Green or Blue Line trains to the 'OAK Airport' train for the short ride to the Oakland International Airport BART Station in front of the airline terminal. It is also connected by footbridge to an Amtrak station of the same name. The surrounding areas around the Oakland Coliseum Station, the downtown (Oakland and SF) stations and the Oakland Greyhound bus station are not safe at night. If you are going south towards San Jose, you can take the Caltrain rail line, but you first need to take BART to the next stop south or SamTrans bus 292 or 397 to Millbrae Transit Center to transfer to Caltrain. The following are stops to the other area airports, Amtrak, Altmont Corridor Express (ACE) and intercity bus connections from San Jose: San Francisco Caltrain Station is the northern terminus of the CalTrain in SoMa part of downtown San Francisco at 4th & King. It is the transfer point to SF MUNI (4th & King St); and to Megabus, Flixbus and Tahoe Convoy on 5th & Townsend St. Millbrae Transit Center is the transfer station between Caltrain, BART, Commute.org Shuttles and SAMTrans buses. It is the nearest Caltrain station from SFO. One can also take SamTrans #292 or 397 bus from airport to the Millbrae Transit Center too. Santa Clara Station is the nearest CalTrain station to the San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC). From here transfer to VTA #60 bus going towards the Milpitas BART Station to get to the airline terminals. Passengers can also transfer to VTA #22 bus or 522 bus bus to get to downtown San Jose or stay on the CalTrain to the Diridon Station stop. Diridon Station in downtown San Jose is CalTrain's southern terminus and transfer point to Amtrak trains, Altmont Corridor Express (ACE) trains, Greyhound/Flixbus, Hwy 17 Express (Santa Cruz Metro #17), and additional VTA buses and trains. During weekday rush hours Caltrain continues from San Jose Diridon to Gilroy. Click here for a list of additional Caltrain Stations. All the stations are served by additional buses and shuttles to the surrounding areas. There are no trains from the airport to Marin County, across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. To get there you'll need to take the Marin Airporter bus (see below), or transfer to a Golden Gate Transit bus or ferry or bus from downtown San Francisco. === By bus === SamTrans provides bus service throughout San Mateo County and limited service to and from San Francisco. There are bus stops at Level 1 of both sides of the International Terminal, and Level 1 of Terminals 2 & 3: Route 142 is a local bus route to the nearby San Bruno, on the other side of US Hwy 101, from the SFO Rental Car Aitrain Station. This route serves the San Bruno BART but it does not serve the SFO Airport BART & SamTrans stops at the international terminals. Connections to Route ECR on El Camino Real are in San Bruno (see below under 'Nearby'). Route 292 runs between Hillsdale Mall in San Mateo and Embarcadero in downtown San Francisco via the airport terminals and multiple cities/municipalities in San Mateo County. The south of the airport route (to/from Hillsdale Mall) stops at Millbrae Transit Center, where one can transfer to Millbrae BART or Caltrain. Route 397 operates a night service (1:20AM to 5AM, check schedules) between Palo Alto and Embarcadero in downtown San Francisco via the airport terminals Route 398 serves the airport from Redwood and Embarcadero via San Bruno BART station during the weekday peak hours only. Check schedules. Route ECR OWL operates night service (1:42AM - 4:42AM hourly, check schedules) between Daly City (Mission St & Wellington Ave) and the airport via Camino Real (CA-Hwy 82) and Mission St. One can pay SamTrans fares with cash (bills or coins) onboard a bus, or with a physical plastic or digital Clipper Transit Card on a smartphone or smartwatch (add Clipper card to Apple Wallet or Google Pay). === By shuttle bus === Shuttle buses depart from the center island transportation zones on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level of the International Terminal and Domestic Terminals 2 and 3: Groome Transportation operates the Sonoma County Airport Express Shuttles to Sonoma County Airport (STS) through Petaluma, Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa in Sonoma County; and to Monterey/Marina via San Jose Airport (SJC) and Prunedale on the Monterey Airbus. The Marin Airporter offers service every half hour to and from Marin County (Sausalito, San Rafael, Mill Valley, Novato); from SFO, from 5AM to midnight. === By taxi or ride app === Taxi stands are located at each terminal on the arrivals level on the traffic island. Be aware that taxi drivers will not generally be pleased when picking up so called short trips to cities within about 10 minutes of the airport. While these drivers are entitled to pickup pass which allows them back into the taxi pool queue immediately, this seems to be of little consolation. Taxis will drop off on the departures level only, even if traffic is heavy. Ride app services, such as Uber and Lyft, do not pick up at the arrivals level at domestic terminals 1, 2, or 3. Passengers arriving at the domestic terminals will proceed upstairs to level 3, and cross over to the top deck of the parking garage, past the AirTrain stations to request their ride. Passengers arriving at the international terminal are able to request a ride-share from the traffic island on the departures level. === By robotaxi === Waymo robotaxi service is now available at SFO via the Waymo app. For now, Waymo service is available only to and from the Kiss & Fly area at the Rental Car Center (see below), or in the alternative, to and from an area near the Grand Hyatt at SFO (see below), and only for users coming off a waitlist. Waymo was also filtering freeway service through a waitlist but suspended freeway service effective May 21, 2026. Since AirTrain can be slow, especially after dark, do not request a Waymo until you are already on the Blue Line segment heading north along US 101. The Blue Line arrives on Level 4 of the Rental Car Center. Take the escalators or the elevator to Level 1 and follow the signs to the Autonomous Rides lane at the Kiss & Fly area. Otherwise, take the Blue Line or the Red Line to the Grand Hyatt at SFO AirTrain station, follow the app's directions into the hotel lobby and find the elevator bank, take the elevator to Level 1, and then follow the app directions to the pickup curb south of the hotel building. === By car === The main access to the airport is via U.S. Highway 101 from both the north and south. If coming from the north, use GPS navigation and carefully follow the signs, or you will miss the exit to the airport. The "SF Intl Airport" exit is actually over a mile-and-a-half north of the airport, just after the exit for Interstate 380. For long term parking, exit at San Bruno Avenue. Surface street access to airport facilities (i.e., private aviation) is from North and South McDonnell Road and North Access Road. As with U.S. airports in general, all curbs in front of all passenger terminals where stopping is tolerated are strictly reserved for unloading or loading. If neither of those is occurring right now, you will be sternly told to move along. Your vehicle will be ticketed and towed immediately if left unattended. If you need to wait for arriving passengers, you can wait for free at the Cell Phone Waiting Lot on San Bruno Avenue, which is accessed by the same driveway that goes to the long term parking garage. If you need extra time for a long goodbye or joyous reunion, or to drop off or pick up a large group of people without having to go into expensive short term parking, consider using the Kiss & Fly area at the 1 Rental Car Center (780 N McDonnell Rd). There are additional off-site car rental companies further west along San Bruno Avenue on the other side of US 101 and north of the airport on S. Airport Boulevard north of I-380 who offer shuttles to pick up/drop off at the Rental Car Center on demand. The Rental Car Center is connected to all airport terminals via the SFO Blue Line AirTrain; allow 10 minutes for that additional delay. ==== Parking ==== It is possible to book your spot online, and there are promotional fares from time to time. Short term parking is available adjacent to the terminal buildings for $2 per 15 minutes and $36 max per 24 hours. Cars over 6 foot 6 inches (1.98 meters) high can park at the international garages. Long term parking costs $2 per 15 minutes and $18 max per 24 hours. The long term parking garage is connected by the SFO AirTrain Blue Line to all terminals, but is located rather far away, about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north. All SFO parking facilities are equipped with chargers for electric vehicles. === By bike === In a rare twist for airports, the terminal buildings are also accessible by bike from N. and S. McDonnell Road. There are parking racks at the Rental Car Center, West Field Parking Lot, both international garages, and the valet area of the domestic parking garage. While parking doesn't cost anything, you can only park them for a maximum of 24 hours; long-term parking for up to 14 days requires a registration at the on-guard security. If you bring a bike with you on your flight, you can disassemble or assemble it at the international garages or the parking area of the Rental Car Center. The Airport Travel Agency at the International Terminal also sells boxes for air transportation and assembling tools. == Get around == Pre-security all terminals are reachable on foot. The Rental Car Center and Long-Term Parking are not, and require use of the AirTrain. The AirTrain system can get you around the airport. It is free and runs 24 hours. The Red Line circulates the terminals plus the International Garages, Grand Hyatt Hotel, and BART train station at parking Garage G. This loop route travels clockwise. The Blue Line stops at all Red Line stations, plus West Field Road, Rental Car Center, and Long-Term Parking. This pinched loop service traverses the terminals counterclockwise. In the early morning hours, SFO closes various AirTrain track segments for maintenance. Closures and how to bypass them (usually by transferring between trains) are always clearly explained with temporary signage and repeated visual and oral announcements. After security, all gates are connected airside. There is no direct connection between the A and G gates, but one can walk the long way around through all domestic terminals to stay airside. Luggage carts are free for international arrivals but require payment elsewhere, though there are sometimes a few of them left behind at the AirTrain stations that are up for grabs. == Wait == SFO has a wide variety of activities, installations and public art in the airport. 1 Aviation Museum & Library (San Francisco Airport Commission Aviation Library and Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum), International Terminal Level 3, adjacent to Concourse A, before security, ☏ +1 650-821-9900. Daily 10AM-4:30PM. Set up in what the airport looked like in the 1930s, this museum focuses on the development of aviation on the West Coast of the U.S. and around the world, including aircraft mockups, pins, posters, even safety cards and luggage labels reflecting the old glory of the airline industry. Free. (updated Mar 2017) SFO Museum. The SFO museum maintains a series of changing art exhibitions throughout the airport. Check the website to see what is up for view. The library and an exhibit hall is located outside of security, near the checkpoint for Terminal A. Closes at 4pm. (updated Sep 2023) Public art. SFO has a large collection of public art installed throughout the airport, some of it quite impressive and worth looking at on your way out of the airport as well as to pass the time while waiting for a flight. The linked map shows the locations of art in the airport. Model aircraft collection, Terminal 3, Level 1, pre-security. A collection of extraordinary wooden model airplanes, including models of rare and unusual makes, made by Edward Chavez of the Nut Tree Restaurant. Flight deck, Terminal 3, Concourse E. An installation of touchscreen kiosks with information about the airport and local attractions. Yoga rooms (Terminal 1 between the B and C gates, Terminal 2 between the C and D gates, Terminal 3 near Gate E6.). (updated Jun 2019) Throughout the airport, there are three different Kids' Spots, interactive play areas for children with science-based exhibits that are open 24 hours a day. One is in Terminal 2, Concourse D, near Gates 54A and 58B; the second is in Terminal 3, Concourse E, near Gate 62; the third is in Terminal 3, Concourse F, near Gate 87A. 1 SkyTerrace, Terminal 2, Level 4, presecurity (take the elevator or stairs from levels 1 or 2 of Terminal 2 north of security). F–M 10AM–6PM. SkyTerrace is a plane spotting area. An outside area has seating facing the planes without a cover overhead for inclement weather. An indoor area has exhibits on the SFO's history and some additional seating. The SkyTerrace is before the main security checkpoint are in Terminal 2, though the SkyTerrace has its own security check where visitors walk through a scanner and a guard inspects bags. Free. (updated Oct 2023) 2 Outdoor Terrace, International Terminal, G gates. 7AM–11PM. Surrealist sculptures and an attractive garden of drought-resistant plants in a pleasant outdoor seating area. (updated Sep 2024) === Lounges === While there are few lounges, the airside is usually already comfortable enough for enjoying a good meal or waiting alone. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, Terminal 2 after Security checkpoint, Level 2, Post-Security. Su 4:15AM–10:45PM, M 4:15AM–8:45PM, Tu–Sa 4:15AM–10:45PM. Maple Leaf Club members (no included guests) or Star Alliance Gold members (plus one guest) on eligible flight are allowed up to 3 hours before their flight. Charge for additional guests. (updated Jul 2023) Air France - KLM Lounge, International Terminal A, near Gate A1, Level 4, Post-Security (immediately left after security). Daily 7:30AM–11:30PM. SkyTeam Alliance. Accepts passengers of the respective airlines, other SkyTeam alliance members, AeroMexico, Fiji Airways, KLM, Korean Air, Philippine Airlines, and Qatar Airways (updated Feb 2023) Alaska Airlines Lounge, Terminal 1, across from Gate B6. Daily 5AM-10:30PM. oneworld Alliance (updated Aug 2024) American Airlines Admirals Club, Terminal 1 near Gate B13, Level 2, Post-Security. Daily 4:30AM-11:30PM. (updated Feb 2023) American Express - The Centurion Lounge, Terminal 3 near Gate F2, Level 2, Post-Security (far west end of the terminal). Daily 5AM-9PM. A lounge exclusive for American Express Platinum and Centurion card holders. (updated Feb 2023) British Airways Lounge, International Terminal A between Gates A5 and A9, Post-Security. Daily 5–11:30AM, 1:30–6:45PM. oneworld Alliance, For British Airways, EVA Air, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air passengers (updated Feb 2023) China Airlines Lounge, International Terminal A near Gate A1, Level 4, Post-Security. Daily 11AM–3PM, 7:30–11:30PM. SkyTeam Alliance. Lounge for passengers of China Airlines and Air France (updated Feb 2023) The Club SFO, Terminal 1 near Gate B4, Level 2, Post-Security. Daily 4:30AM-11:30PM. Lounge for eligible Turkish Airlines passengers, Priority Pass holders, and bookable by day pass. Delta Sky Club, Terminal 2 near Gate C3, Level 2, Post-Security. Su M 4:30AM–10:30PM, Tu–F 4:30AM–midnight, Sa 4:30AM–10:30PM. SkyTeam Alliance. Customers are welcome in the Delta Sky Club up to 3 hours before their flight. (updated Mar 2018) Emirates Lounge, International Terminal A between Gates A2 and A6, Level 3, Post-Security. Daily 12:45–4:45PM. (updated Feb 2023) Golden Gate Lounge. International Terminal A, near Gate A1, Level 5, Post-Security (proceed through Security Checkpoint A and turn left). Daily 7AM-11:30PM. Lounge for Priority Pass holders. United Lounges, all post-security. Star Alliance (updated Feb 2023) United Club, Terminal 3: one near Gate E4 and one near rotunda/Gate F11; International Terminal G: between Gates G6 and G9. (updated Feb 2023) United Polaris Lounge, International Terminal G: near gate G1 (Across from G security checkpoint). Daily 6:30AM–10:30PM. Exclusive lounge for travelers departing in United Polaris or any Star Alliance airline long haul first and business class. Shower room. (updated Feb 2023) USO Lounge, Terminal 1 Mezzanine Level, Pre-Security. 7AM–8PM. Lounge for U.S. Armed Forces members and their families. (updated Feb 2023) Virgin Atlantic Club House Lounge, International Terminal A, near Gate A1, Level 5, Post-Security (proceed through Security Checkpoint A and turn left). Daily 8:30AM–11:30PM. Virgin Atlantic, Cathay Pacific, Condor. Dragon Pass members, American Express Platinum, Centurion Card, Capital One Venture X and walk-ins are accepted. (updated Jan 2025) == Eat and drink == The only sit-down restaurants pre-security are at the International Terminal because of its large floor space. === Terminal 1 === Amy's Drive Thru, near Gate B6. A Bay Area original, this local chain of all-vegetarian fast food restaurants has opened a branch at SFO. (updated Dec 2024) Drake's Flyaway, near Gate B20. Table service restaurant with a full bar and brewery offering oven-baked pizzas, burgers, salads and sandwiches (updated Apr 2021) Goldilocks, near Gate B18. Filipino cuisine favorites with gluten-free and vegan-friendly offerings. Mains from $8, sides from $3. (updated Apr 2021) Starbird, near gate B13. Locally sustainable chicken tenders, either enjoyed as it is or in a burger. From $10. (updated Apr 2021) === Terminal 2 === Many of the food options in Terminal 2 include food stands with common seating. Andale Mexican Restaurant, Terminal 2 near Gate D16. 5:30AM-11PM daily. Fresh made to order Mexican entrees, beer, and wine. Burger Joint, Terminal 2 near Gate D15. The chain from New York featuring sandwiches and various burgers. (updated Apr 2021) Cat Cora, Terminal 2 near Gate D9. Full cocktail bar, wine, beer and a diverse small plate menu. (updated Apr 2021) Lark Creek Grill, Terminal 2 near Gate D1. Table service restaurant with full bar, seafood, steak and breakfast Pinkberry, Terminal 2 near Gate D4. Frozen yoghurt with toppings you can choose. From $3.80. (updated Apr 2021) The Plant Café, Terminal 2 near Gate D4. Breakfast menu and organic entrees. From $12. (updated Apr 2021) Wakaba, Terminal 2 Concourse D (near gate D9). Japanese sushi and noodles, teriyaki and bento boxes. Beer and sake is also provided. Joint seating area with other restaurants. Mains from $12. Sushi from $10. === Terminal 3 === Sankaku, Near Gate E2. Japanese food heavy on entrees with a few selections of sushi. From $12. (updated Apr 2021) San Francisco Giants Clubhouse, Near Gate F13. Finger snacks, sandwiches, and souvenirs from the namesake baseball team. (updated Apr 2021) === International Terminal === ==== Pre-security ==== Green Beans Cafe, International Terminal near G gates. Coffee and smoothies, sandwiches, baked goods, and salads. (updated Apr 2021) Asian Market by Sky Terrace, International Terminal near A Gates. Asian fusion menus, featuring side with 2 entrees, dim sum & sushi. side with 2 entrees from $13. Others from $7. (updated Apr 2021) Potrero Grill, International Terminal near G gates. American food featuring soups, salads, and sandwiches, including its special clam chowder and chicken wings. From $10. (updated Apr 2021) Roasting Plant Coffee, International Terminal near A gates. A coffee reserve featuring build your own coffee from select beans. Coffee from $4. (updated Apr 2021) Tapas & Taps, International Terminal near G gates. American style full bar serving small plates, assorted beer selections and specialty cocktails. (updated Apr 2021) ==== A Gates ==== Gott's Roadside, Near Gate A13. American comfort food featuring pizzas, sandwiches, and burgers. Finish off with a glass of whiskey or crafted cocktails. Burgers from $15, sandwiches from $13.. (updated Apr 2021) The Manufactory Food Hall, International Terminal A near A6. Daily 6AM-midnight. A food court housing a delightful pastry cafe and zesty Thai selections. Mains from $12. (updated Apr 2021) ==== G Gates ==== 1300 On Fillmore, near Gate G11. Southern fares with signature cocktails. Food from $12. (updated Apr 2021) Mustards Bar & Grill, near gate G3. Steak and diner style menus with extensive wine library. (updated Apr 2021) Tomokazu, International Terminal G near G4. Japanese specialties including sushi, sashimi, nigiri, rice bowls, noodles and teriyaki. Also sells Japanese snacks. Rice bowl & noodles from $12. Sushi rolls from $7. (updated Apr 2021) == Buy == There are very few shops at Terminal 1, plenty in other terminals. Unlike most international airports where international passengers are shoved into a narrow and winding passage down the duty free zone before reaching their gates, they are small, divided, and not intrusive here, meaning that you can walk fast directly to your gate if you want to. Compass Books, Terminal 2 Concourse D (right after security). A good selection of books and a few souvenirs. The display shelves out front are definitely worth a browse. (updated Jun 2019) Greetings from SF, Terminal 3 Concourse F. Souvenirs, gifts, apparels, and accessories from the "City by the Bay". == Connect == There are work stations at concourses in the International Terminal that you can use to work with your laptop or to charge your device. On the domestic terminals, there are power sockets throughout the walls and at most seats. Free Wi-Fi connectivity using #SFO FREE WIFI is available on all terminals & concourses. Lounges also offer their own hotspots and may offer faster speed. TTY for the hearing impaired. Can be found in all terminals. (updated Jan 2016) TripTel, International Terminal A pre-security, ☏ +1-415-474-3330, toll-free: +1-877-TRIPTEL (8747835). 8:30AM-9:30PM daily. Cell phone rentals, Internet, fax and copying services. Advanced reservations are recommended for cell phone rentals. (updated Jan 2016) Mailboxes, 6 Mailboxes are located curbside on the Departures/Ticketing Level at the end of all terminals.. (updated Jan 2016) == Cope == Although SFO's terminals are relatively small, it is one of the most user-friendly airports in the United States, thanks to its wide range of amenities to help travelers (including rare amenities such as all gender restrooms and therapy dogs). If you travel with infants, there is one nursery chamber can be found on each concourse except A gates, for G gates it is before the security. For access, call the courtesy phone next to its door. The newsagents and Airport Travel Agency also sells care items. Airport Travel Agency, International Terminal adjacent to Concourse G, before security, ☏ +1 650 877-0422, cf.airport@airporttravelagency.org. 6AM–11PM daily. Luggage storage, sundries, Western Union, notary, shipping, bag wrapping, tickets, reservations, passport photos, etc. Luggage storage from $8 per hour, $24 for 24 hours. (updated Jan 2016) Berman Reflection Room, International Terminal adjacent to Concourse G, before security (left of security). Daily 7AM-11PM. A quiet place either to rest or to pray. (updated Apr 2021) Christian Science Reading Room, Terminal 1 adjacent to Concourse C before security. A quiet room to read, meditate and relax (updated Apr 2021) Freshen Up, International Terminal adjacent to Concourse G, before security (behind check in counter, right of security), ☏ +1 650 877-0798. 24 hours daily. Should you feel not fresh, come here for a shower with amenities included or take a nap. Also offers self-ironing and toiletries. Shower from $25, nap rooms from $40. Lost and Found, Terminal 1, Arrivals Level, near Domestic Garage Core C Tunnel, ☏ +1 650 821 7014, sfolostandfound@flysfo.com. Daily 8AM-10PM. If you lose an item at the terminal, this is where you can call and probably retrieve your item. (updated Apr 2021) TripTel, International Terminal, Main Hall. offers a variety of services including mobile phone rentals, copying, faxing, etc. (updated Apr 2021) == Sleep == Sleeping at the airport is unfortunately not a good and comfortable option. At the baggage claims in the domestic terminals, there are padded benches, especially at Terminal 3. However, the baggage claims are part of the landside area open to the pubilc, which means you must beware of homeless or intoxicated people disturbing your sleep. Sleeping airside is safer, provided you have an onward boarding pass and can enter through security before they close for the night. Unfortunately, with the exception of a few couches at Terminal 2, the airside seats have unremovable armrests. The landside area of the international terminal is quieter but brighter. Other alternatives are to sleep at Freshen Up or the Reflection Room (see Cope), although the latter closes overnight. There is one hotel physically located within the airport grounds. 1 Grand Hyatt at SFO, 55 S McDonnell Rd (Access using AirTrain), ☏ +1 650 452 1234. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. The only hotel within the airport grounds. 351 soundproof rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple restaurants including a to-go bar, and wellness facilities. Day use available. Dog friendly. The main lobby is on the fourth floor where passengers arrive from the adjacent AirTrain station, not ground level. From $220 per night. (updated Apr 2021) A large number of cheap lodging options can be found to the west along El Camino Real in nearby Millbrae and San Bruno, where there are also many places to eat. More premium options with bayfront views are available to the east in nearby Burlingame and to the north in South San Francisco. Many of these off-airport hotels run their own shuttle buses to the airport. === Millbrae === Accessible directly using the SFO route of the SamTrans bus or Red Line of the BART train. 2 El Rancho Inn, 1100 El Camino Real, ☏ +1 650 588-8500, fax: +1 650 871-7150, reservations@elranchoinn.com. 3 The Millwood, 1375 El Camino Real, ☏ +1-650-583-3935, toll-free: +1-800-345-1375, info@millwoodinn.com. (updated Oct 2019) 4 The Dylan Hotel at SFO, 110 South El Camino Real, ☏ +1 650 697-7373. A family-owned boutique hotel that was remodeled in 2014. Amenities include 24-hour airport shuttle and free parking. (updated Oct 2016) 5 The Westin San Francisco Airport, 1 Old Bayshore Highway, ☏ +1 650 692-3500. (updated Oct 2019) 6 Aloft San Francisco Airport, 401 E Millbrae Ave, ☏ +1 650 443-5500. (updated Oct 2019) === Brisbane === 7 Homewood Suites, 2000 Shoreline Ct, ☏ +1-650-589-1600. A hotel located in a secluded spot with views of the bay and the airport featuring large suites. From $140 per night. 8 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Francisco Airport North, 5000 Sierra Point Pkwy, ☏ +1-650-745-1500. The hotel has panoramic views of the beautiful San Francisco Bay and offers complimentary parking. From $170 per night. (updated Sep 2020) === Burlingame === Directly east of the airport with many hotels offering a splendid view of the airport tarmac, perfect for plane spotting. 9 Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport, 1177 Airport Blvd, ☏ +1 650-342-9200, toll-free: +1-877-252-1558. Crowne Plaza SFO is 1 mile away from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). From $150 per night. 10 Embassy Suites - Airport, 150 Anza Blvd, ☏ +1 650 342-4600. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. All rooms include a living room and separate bedroom with wi-fi, flat screen TVs, coffeemaker, refrigerator, microwave and wet bar. Amenities include complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, and evening reception, and free airport shuttle. From $190 per night. 11 Holiday Inn Express, 1250 Bayshore Hwy, ☏ +1 650 347-2381. From $170 per night. 12 San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront, 1800 Old Bayshore Highway, ☏ +1 650 692-9100, fax: +1 650 692-8016. From $180 per night. 13 Vagabond Inn Executive Burlingame (Vagabond Inn Executive San Francisco Airport Bayfront (SFO)), 1640 Bayshore Highway, ☏ +1 650 692-4040, fax: +1 650 692-5314. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. From $100 per night. == Nearby == If you have a long layover, BART will take you to San Francisco in about half an hour. El Camino Real is the main commercial arterial road running northwest/southeast from San Francisco to San Jose through San Mateo County. Many hotels/motels, restaurants and stores are located along El Camino Real. It was the historical route of U.S. Highway 101 before the current Bayshore Freeway was built as a bypass to the east, and it is now designated and signed as State Route 82. To the north: San Bruno is the municipality where the airport is located and is the nearest location for a variety of hotels, motels, restaurants, and other services. SamTrans Route 'ECR' travels the entire length of El Camino Real, through San Mateo County, between Daly City BART and Palo Alto. Transit connections to the airport are on Route 142 or on BART from the nearby San Bruno BART and the Millbrae Transit Center. South San Francisco is a separate city/municipality from San Francisco in San Mateo County, off of US 101. Daly City San Francisco To the south: Burlingame San Mateo Millbrae Further afield: San Jose Oakland & Berkeley are further away. BART is the fastest way to get to the East Bay by public transit, with stations in downtown Berkeley and downtown Oakland. If you have a car, take US 101 to San Francisco, then I-80 over the Bay Bridge into Oakland. Aviation enthusiasts can watch planes taking off and landing from nice bayside parks in Millbrae and Burlingame.