Pros:
gorgeous view of sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge
Cons:
school groups can overrun the place
LibbyF
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(3)
Atmosphere
(3)
Stayed here in May 2006. Girl scout troop was there at the same time with tons of giggling, noisy girls running from room to room and floor to floor. Ah well, that's part of hostel life.
The location is terrific. You can walk to Ghirardelli Square, the trolly, views of Golden Gate bridge, and nearby bus line. It's a great location on the northern tip of SF. If you are driving into the city, this is the hostel of choice because they offer a free place to park your car. (You'd probably have to pay $20 - $25 a day to park your car near any of the downtown hostels.)
The included breakfast is just 1 mug of coffee (no refills), 1 small glass of juice (no refills), and either 1 bagel or 2 toaster waffles. If you'll be in the hostel at breakfast time, go ahead and grab your free breakfast. Then go out and buy a second something for your real energy for the day.
Fort Mason has nice walking areas. Very green. And don't miss the flock of WILD parrots that hangs out near the hostel during the day. Really. There was even a documentary about them.