San Francisco International Airport, with the airport code SFO, is a major international airport serving the San Francisco Bay Area. It is one of the busiest airports in the United States and offers extensive facilities and services to passengers.
Basic Airport Information:
Airport Name:
San Francisco International Airport
Airport Code:
SFO
Location:
San Mateo County, California, USA, approximately 21 kilometers south of downtown San Francisco.
Website:
San Francisco International Airport
Terminals:
SFO has four terminals: Terminal 1 (Harvey Milk Terminal 1), Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and the International Terminal.
Public Transportation:
- BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): Connects the airport to San Francisco, Oakland, and other Bay Area locations.
- Buses: Several bus routes serve the airport.
- Taxis: Available 24/7 at designated taxi stands.
- Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for pick-up.
Parking:
- Short-Term Parking: Available in Domestic and International garages.
- Long-Term Parking: Options available with shuttle service.
- Valet Parking: Available at the Domestic Garage.
Ground Transportation:
- Car Rentals: Available from multiple providers within the airport’s Rental Car Center.
- Shuttles: Hotel and private shuttles operate regularly.
- Chauffeur Services: Luxurious transport options are available for hire.
Airport Map:
An airport map can be found on the official website.
Terminal Information:
Airlines:
San Francisco International Airport hosts a wide range of airlines including:
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Alaska Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- Japan Airlines
Airport Lounges:
- United Club: Terminal 3 and International Terminal
- American Airlines Admirals Club: Terminal 2
- Delta Sky Club: Terminal 1
- Alaska Lounge: Terminal 2
- Cathay Pacific Lounge: International Terminal
- British Airways Lounge: International Terminal
Security Checkpoints:
Security checkpoints are located at the entrance to each terminal and at various points within the terminals. Ensure you have your boarding pass and ID ready for inspection.
Customs:
Customs facilities are located in the International Terminal. Make sure to declare any items as required by U.S. law.
Hotels at or Near San Francisco International Airport:
- Grand Hyatt at SFO: Located on airport grounds, connected to the AirTrain.
- Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront: Nearby with shuttle service.
- Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport: Close to the airport with shuttle service.
- Westin San Francisco Airport: Nearby with shuttle service.
- Aloft San Francisco Airport: Close to the airport with shuttle service.
Things to Do:
Shopping:
- Duty-Free Stores: Various locations within the International Terminal.
- Luxury Brand Stores: Available in the International Terminal (e.g., Gucci, Burberry).
- Local Souvenirs: Multiple shops in the terminals offering San Francisco-themed products.
Dining:
- International Cuisine: Available in all terminals.
- Local Delicacies: Multiple options throughout the airport.
- Fast Food: Available in all terminals.
Art and Culture:
- Cultural Exhibits: Various displays throughout the terminals showcasing local art and culture.
- Art Installations: Located near the departure halls and transit areas.
Relaxation:
- Spa Services: Available in Terminal 3 and International Terminal.
- Massage Chairs: Scattered throughout the terminals for a quick relaxation break.
Restaurants:
- Terminal 1:
- Peet’s Coffee & Tea: Near Gate B3
- Amy’s Drive Thru: Near Gate B6
- Terminal 2:
- Lark Creek Grill: Near Gate D4
- Starbucks: Near Gate D8
- Terminal 3:
- Gordon Biersch: Near Gate F15
- Boudin Bakery Café: Near Gate F18
- International Terminal:
- Klein’s Deli: Near Gate G5
- Starbucks: Near Gate A2
Prayer Facilities:
- Christian Chapel: Terminal 1, near Gate B1
- Multi-faith Prayer Room: International Terminal, near Gate G7
Halal/Kosher Food:
- Halal Options:
- Turkish Kitchen: Terminal 3, near Gate F10
- Kosher Options:
- Jewish Delicatessen: International Terminal, near Gate A3
- Kosher Meals: Available at select restaurants and some lounges upon request.
Sleeping and Quiet Areas:
- Quiet Zone: International Terminal, near Gate G8
- Nap Zones: Terminal 3, near Gate F12
Smoking Areas:
- Designated Smoking Areas: Outside each terminal entrance.
Pet Relief:
- Pet Relief Areas: Available outside each terminal and inside near Gates B7, C5, and G11.
ATM:
- ATM Locations: Multiple throughout the terminals, including near Gates B2, C4, D7, and G2.
Luggage Storage:
- Luggage Storage Facilities: Located in the International Terminal.
Tips for Navigating San Francisco International Airport:
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for check-in and security, especially during peak hours.
- Stay Informed: Check flight information screens regularly for updates.
- Use Airport Services: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi, lounges, and information desks.
- Stay Hydrated: Water fountains are available throughout the terminals.
- Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the airport map and signs to navigate efficiently.
