San Francisco Travel Guide: 5 Rooftop Bars To Check Out In 2024

A decade ago, when I first moved to the Bay Area from the northeast,, I envisioned myself sipping cocktails on sun-drenched rooftops, basking in the warmth of San Francisco’s temperate climate. It seemed idyllic. However, I quickly encountered the city’s infamous summer chill and understood why Mark Twain supposedly remarked, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” Locals wrapped in scarves and jackets, even in July, made the idea of rooftop bars seem almost laughable.

The city’s climate was an unexpected twist in my Bay Area dream. Instead of the balmy evenings I had imagined, I found my friends and colleagues shivering under layers of blankets and nursing hot tea to ward off the persistent fog aka “Karl.” The famous microclimates of San Francisco meant that while it may be warm in one neighborhood, just a short trip could have you enveloped in a chilly breeze. This added a unique character to the city but also dashed my hopes of a perpetual summer experience.

But times have changed. Recently, a wave of trendy rooftop bars has transformed the city’s social scene. Perhaps entrepreneurs and bar owners have given in to the demands of all the cold(er) climate people like myself that have moved to the area and don’t get “California Cold.” Or perhaps those native to “The City” are finally warming up to the idea of heated lamps and cozy fire pits to stay warm in the chilly (exaggerated eye roll) 50 degree nights. Either way, now in 2024 you can find over a dozen spots to enjoy a drink with a view, even if you need to bring a light sweater. These bars not only offer stunning vistas of San Francisco’s iconic skyline, but also provide a vibrant atmosphere perfect for socializing.

From lush greenery and sophisticated decor to inventive cocktail menus, these rooftop bars cater to both locals and tourists looking to soak in the city’s unique charm. Here is my curated list of the best rooftop bars to cool down this summer, where the ambiance and views more than make up for the occasional chill. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, these spots promise an unforgettable experience under the San Francisco sky.

Charmaine’s

45 McAllister St.

Elevated 120 feet above Market Street at the top of the San Francisco Proper Hotel is Charmaine’s, a rooftop bar and lounge that brings living room vignettes and terrace greenery to the sky. The energetic chic of a European terrace meets the laid-back vibes of California cool, with magnificent views of the city spanning to the Bay and the Salesforce Tower. Alongside snacks and small bites, cocktails have vibrant flavors, original combinations, and unique bitters and syrups. The penthouse lounge and spirit of Charmaine’s recalls the spirit of the romantics, designed by Kelly Wearstler with deep colors, textures, and eccentric patterns, and takes its appellation from an imaginary resident feline.

Kaiyo Rooftop

701 3rd St.

Opened in February 2022, KAIYŌ Rooftop is a contemporary Peruvian Nikkei bar and lounge owned and operated by San Francisco restaurateur John Park of Brick x Brick Hospitality Group, (KAIYŌ, Whitechapel and Novela). The bar is located on the rooftop of the Hyatt Place Hotel in SOMA, steps away from Oracle Park. KAIYŌ Rooftop is the second location for Park’s KAIYŌ concept, following the success of the concept’s Cow Hollow restaurant, which opened in September of 2018.

Cavaña

100 Channel St.

Cavaña is the latest rooftop cocktail bar concept from San Francisco restaurateurs, John Park of Brick x Brick Hospitality Group, and Anthony Parks of True Hospitality. Located atop LUMA Hotel San Francisco, Cavaña celebrates the spirit of Central and South America through food and beverage, music and art. The menu features an expansive collection of sugar cane and agave distillates alongside artisanal cocktails, minimal intervention wines and shareable plates inspired by flavors across Latin America. Opening in February 2023, Cavaña is the prime destination to enjoy live music and craft cocktails, while taking in stunning views of Oracle Park and the San Francisco Bay.

Shelby’s Rooftop

250 4th St.

Shelby’s Rooftop elegantly perched above 4th Street in downtown San Francisco, blends sophistication seamlessly with casual comfort, creating a sanctuary for locals, foodies, and cocktail enthusiasts. The rooftop boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for any occasion. From the moment you step onto the rooftop, you’ll know this isn’t just another night out—it’s an experience. Relish the expertly crafted cocktails, savor a diverse menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients, and enjoy live music that sets the ideal ambiance. Whether you visit for a romantic evening, a casual gathering with friends, or a special celebration, Shelby’s Rooftop guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Dirty Habit

12 4th St.

Perched on the 5th floor of Hotel Zelos, Dirty Habit is a stylish and intimate retreat offering an extraordinary fusion of New American cuisine, innovative craft cocktails, and a sociable atmosphere that appeals to all newcomers. Dirty Habit enchants visitors with its modern decor accented by vintage flair, comfortable seating areas, and breathtaking city skyline views. The bar’s creative mixologists are renowned for crafting uniquely flavored cocktails, utilizing seasonal ingredients and inventive techniques that will tantalize your taste buds. The menu itself is a culinary adventure, featuring an array of delectable dishes meticulously prepared by talented chefs. Discover why Dirty Habit is pioneering a revolution in rooftop bars and why it should be at the top of your list for your next night out in San Francisco.