Argonaut Hotel050

Voted one of Conde Nast's Top 100 Mainland Hotels in the World, the Argonaut, located in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, combines whimsy and luxury to offer the quintessential San Francisco experience.

The 252-room boutique hotel is steeped in a nautical history that is reflected in its architecture and decor.

Kids love the nautical motif. But it's not just for show. The hotel building also houses the San Francisco Maritime National Park Visitors' Center, a 10,000 square foot interactive museum. (Check out the huge Farallon lighthouse lens circa 1854!) As well, many of the rooms overlook the Hyde Street Pier and a fleet of historic ships. Families can easily head across the street and climb aboard the Balclutha, C.A. Thayer, Hercules, or Eureka. As well, the hotel is just minutes away from the Cannery, Ghiradelli Square, and Pier 39.

We stayed in a King Suite that was impeccably clean, well-lit, cheerful, and huge - about the size of a large one-bedroom San Francisco apartment. The living room boasts a couch that opens to a double bed and a dining table that seats four comfortably. The bedroom has an incredibly comfy king bed and a postcard-perfect view of the Bay, historic ships, and Alcatraz Island. The red brick walls, bright color scheme, original artwork by local artists, and wood shutters add charming touches.

Pocket doors separate the living room from the bedroom, affording plenty of privacy for adults and a huge playroom for the youngsters. The two large televisions offer pay-per-view access to Disney episodes, movies, and Nintendo. Or, bring your own DVDs - there are two DVD players. (Ahhh, time to relax).

Once the kids are asleep, parents can indulge in the enormous Jacuzzi. The bathroom also has a shower, and is stocked with luxurious towels, leopard-print cotton bathrobes, and L'Occitane bath products.

Other amenities and pleasantries include an afternoon wine tasting, free wireless/DSL, available strollers and cribs, valet parking, room service, complimentary newspaper, in-room coffeemaker, and an extraordinarily friendly and helpful staff.