✈️ The Backstory

Traveling from the East Coast USA to Southeast Asia with young kids (ours are under 6)? It’s no small feat—and it turns out, one thoughtful travel decision can make all the difference.

Instead of flying straight through from the East Coast to Singapore + Bali (which can mean over 20 hours of flying + layovers), we broke up the journey with an overnight stay in San Francisco—specifically at the elegant, family-friendly Four Seasons Embarcadero. And honestly? It might have saved the trip.

Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero
Location: San Francisco, California
Perfect For: Families in transit to Asia or Oceania, luxury travelers, first-time San Francisco visitors

🏨 First Impressions

From the moment we arrived, the Four Seasons staff made us feel instantly at ease. The Embarcadero property sits on the upper floors of a high-rise, offering panoramic views over the city and bay. Floor-to-ceiling windows gave the kids a built-in activity (spotting cable cars and boats!) and gave us time to exhale after the travel day.

🌁 What We Loved

Spacious Rooms with a View
Chic, contemporary rooms with jaw-dropping views—watching the sunset over the bay was an unexpected perk. Our room was the family suite - connecting two spacious rooms - and allowing us all some much needed space after the travel day.
In-Room Dining = Parent Win
After a long flight, we skipped the restaurant scene and ordered room service. The kids got mac & cheese in bed while we sipped wine in robes. Everyone was asleep by 8pm (a travel miracle).
Time Zone Buffering
With just one overnight stop, we were able to keep naps and meals fairly normal—making the next day’s long-haul so much smoother. Less overtired meltdowns, more airplane snuggles.
Walkability for a Reset
The location meant we could grab coffee and let the kids stretch their legs around the Embarcadero and Ferry Building. Just enough movement to reset without overdoing it.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why It Works for Families

This isn’t just about luxury—it’s about smart travel. The Four Seasons Embarcadero offered:

Early check-in & late checkout options (vital when flight schedules shift)
Kid-friendly menu options + plenty of space for families in suites
Quiet, calm rooms for much-needed rest between travel legs
Proximity to the airport without sacrificing quality

As a travel advisor, I often recommend stopovers like this to families heading to Asia, Australia, or beyond. Yes, it’s an extra night. But the reward? A smoother journey, happier kids, and a far more enjoyable arrival.

🧳 Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely.
Whether you're headed to Bali, Tokyo, Sydney, or anywhere far and fabulous, a San Francisco stopover at the Four Seasons Embarcadero is a five-star way to make long-haul family travel feel doable—and dare I say, even enjoyable.

✨ Travel Advisor Tip

When you book through a trusted advisor (hi 👋🏼), you’ll get perks like:

Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Daily breakfast credit
Hotel credit for spa or dining
Personalized itinerary support
VIP treatment every step of the way

📍Ready to plan your next big adventure—with a little more ease?
Let’s chat about stopovers, luxury family hotels, and how to make the journey as joyful as the destination.

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