Like most Californian cities, Berkeley began as a ranching community that eventually prospered into an industrial town. The establishment of a public university in 1868 forever altered the course of the city's progress and the resident's lifestyle. Today, Berkeley is a modern city that offers culture, restaurants, shops, and arts to locals and visitors alike. Berkeley is easily accessed via Interstate 580. The closest airports are Oakland International Airport and San Francisco International Airport. Locals and visitors alike use the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) public transportation system to travel around the area.
When should you visit Berkeley, California?
Berkeley experiences a cooler Mediterranean climate. Daily temperatures throughout the year range from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit. The city sits directly opposite the Golden Gate, the strait that connects the San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. Due to its location, Berkeley is more often blanketed in fog than its neighboring cities.
Upwelling ocean currents along the coast contribute to the cool and foggy nights and mornings. Warm water El Niño episodes in the Pacific produce years with heavy rainfall, whereas cold Pacific La Niña episodes are associated with dry years.
After the fog clears in the morning, summers in Berkeley are dry, sunny, and warm. The driest and warmest months are June through September. The usually hot mid-summer months of July and August are actually cooler here due to sea breezes and fog. If you're planning a trip with hot weather activities, then plan on booking a hotel in September.
Winters in Berkeley can be rainy but also have long stretches of clear sunny days and cold nights. January is the month with the most precipitation. It doesn't usually snow in Berkeley, but the Berkeley Hills that lie beyond the city sometimes get a dusting of snow.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Berkeley, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Berkeley, CA. Analyze these line graphs to determine the most cost effective seasons to book in Berkeley for your upcoming travels.
What are the best hotels in Berkeley, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $202.38
The Claremont Club and Spa, a Fairmont Hotel, is one of the best hotels in Berkeley, California. A five-star iconic property in the Southside district, the Claremont offers easy access to downtown Berkeley and San Francisco. The resort opened for business over 100 years ago and has been newly restored. Beautifully appointed rooms and suites feature luxury amenities. Three restaurants are on site, plus a full-service spa, tennis courts, and health club. Families visiting with younger children will appreciate the outdoor pool and Kid's Club, an activity center that provides childcare and fun for all ages.
The newly-renovated Doubletree Berkeley Marina by Hilton is an excellent hotel for business travelers and families. Located on the San Francisco Bay, stunning views of the city and Golden Gate Bridge await. On-site amenities include a fitness center, indoor pool, and running trails, plus a waterfront restaurant and bar. A complimentary hotel shuttle will take you anywhere within a few miles of the property. Transportation to the local train station and Tideline Ferry is also offered. Spacious guest rooms and suites feature either a balcony or patio. To avoid the highest rates, book a stay outside of May through July.
Get ready for a fantastic stay at the Hotel Shattuck Plaza in Downtown Berkeley. A top hotel that boasts Old World style mixed with New World amenities, the Hotel Shattuck Plaza is a mission-style home built over 100 years ago. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable, featuring fluffy towels, flat-screen HDTVs, and free Wi-Fi. Indulge in room service or unwind at the Mediterranean inspired restaurant or bar and lounge. If you're a member of AAA or a senior traveler, check for special room rates and deals before booking this hotel.
What are the affordable hotels in Berkeley, CA?
3 Star Average Prices: $159.64
Travelodge by Wyndham Berkeley is an excellent, budget-friendly hotel that's centrally located near the University of California. Enjoy an affordable stay in new rooms with modern hotel amenities, like free Wi-Fi and LCD televisions. Start your day with a complimentary continental breakfast and daily newspaper. On-site free limited parking is also available. Travelodge welcomes group bookings at this location.
The charming Rose Garden Inn is an affordable boutique hotel located in South Berkeley. The inn is housed across five historic buildings, with main lodging found within the mansion. The Rose Garden offers several unique types of rooms, ranging from family suites to deluxe king rooms with a fireplace. Fountains and beautiful flower gardens, plus access to an outdoor deck and patio, make the Rose Garden Inn a peaceful oasis for any Bay Area getaway or business trip. Incredible dining spots are just steps away from the inn.
If you're looking for an affordable hotel amid the bustle of downtown Berkeley, then consider staying at America's Best Value Golden Bear Inn. Clean and comfortable rooms await at this excellent city hotel that offers special discounts to senior adult travelers. Rates at this location are higher on the weekends, so book a weekday stay for the most budget-friendly prices. The inn dates back to 1946 and features Spanish architecture, but the inside has been completely remodeled to offer modern décor and amenities. Complimentary parking and Wi-Fi, plus an on-site pizza place, all add to the value of your stay.
2 Star Average Prices: $110.33
What are the best hotel discounts in Berkeley, CA?
If you're a member of the military or traveling for government business, book a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Berkeley and receive specially discounted room rates. Discounts are also offered at this hotel to groups and senior adults. Close to the university, major corporations, and the North Berkeley train station, the Holiday Inn Express provides a practical and comfortable stay. Other perks of booking a room at this hotel include a free breakfast bar, 24-hour fitness center, and free internet access.
The Courtyard by Marriott Emeryville is located on the bay, at the edge of South Berkeley. With easy access to Interstates 580, 880, and 80, the Courtyard has an excellent location. If you're a member of AAA/CAA, a senior 62 or older, military, or government employee, check for discounts at this hotel. Corporate and leisure groups can also receive discounts for booking blocks of rooms. The most expensive times to book here for individuals and groups is in February and September. If possible, try a stay in April to enjoy the best rates and mild spring weather.
What are the best value hotels in Berkeley, California?
The Knights Inn Berkeley is a great value hotel located at the city's center on University Avenue. With clean, affordable rooms and close access to public transportation, staying at the Knights Inn is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy Berkeley on a budget. The hotel is minutes from the university, local dining, and shopping. Save even more by parking on-site for free and starting each day with a complimentary breakfast. Take advantage of discounted rates if your group will be booking multiple rooms.
La Quinta Inn Berkeley is another hotel that offers a good value for the price you pay. Easily park on site for free, swim in the large outdoor pool, and start each day with a free breakfast. This 100 percent non-smoking hotel is a good home base for a Bay Area visit. Choose a room featuring two queen beds or one king bed, plus a work desk area. For an extended stay, consider upgrading to a suite with living room and kitchen area. Free Wi-Fi, local calls, and cable TV all add to the value of your stay.
What are the top things to do in Berkeley, CA?
The Bay Area offers so many opportunities for recreation, sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Berkeley enjoys a worldwide reputation for being a city focused on activism, education, and the arts. Tour the UC Berkeley campus, catch a show in the Downtown Arts District, or experience the visual art at the Berkeley Art Museum. Be sure to take a stroll down Telegraph Avenue and explore what many consider to be the soul of Berkeley. It's a district filled with local shops, restaurants, and the distinctive Berkeley vibe.
Top things to do when visiting with kids include the Adventure Playground, Lawrence Hall of Science, Tilden Park, and the Habitot Children's Discovery Museum. Local farmers' markets, festivals, and annual community events all add to your Berkeley experience. Travel across the Bay at least one day to explore the city of San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and National Park. Other must-see attractions include Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, and the famous Painted Ladies of Alamo Square.
Whether you're looking to explore the Bay Area on a budget or in luxury, Berkeley has a hotel to suits your needs. Rates tend to rise in the area starting in May when the weather is turning warmer. Prices will stay high throughout September and then usually begin to drop through the fall and winter at most hotel properties. Book a visit to Berkeley just outside of peak times, plus take advantage of all available discounts, and you'll be sure to enjoy the most affordable stay in the city that is friendly and welcoming to all.
'I'm not guna let anything take the love from my heart, the love of life and spreading peace and positive, thank you earth I'm alive., - these are the words of famous Berkeley-born rapper Lil B.
Named after the famous 18th Century philosopher and bishop George Berkeley, Berkeley is a major US city located on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, California. At its south, the city is bordered by Oakland & Emeryville while in the north, Berkeley is surrounded by Kensington & Albany. The Californian city is famous for hosting the oldest university of California campus. It's one among the highly politically-liberal cities across the United States.
Economical Stays in Berkeley
If you are in search of cheap hotels in the city, Super 8 Berkeley would be a grand choice for you. This no-nonsense budget hotel is closer to university of California & North Berkeley Station and speaks of quality at affordable rates. All the rooms here include standard amenities such as iPod docks, AC, flat-screen cable TVs. A great continental complimentary breakfast is one of the major highlights of this hotel.
Berkeley Inn is another top pick for travelers looking for cheap hotels in the city. It-s a 3-story hotel which invites you with modest rooms that further opens to nice exterior walkways. All the rooms are equipped with en suite bath, minifridges, satellite TV, coffeemakers & microwaves. You will enjoy a free of charge parking here. Both the Berkeley hotels assure complimentary Wi-Fi.
Luxury Accommodations in Berkeley
If you are planning a plush stay in the city, Claremont Club & Spa is one of the most recommended among luxe hotels in Berkeley. Overlooking the scenic San Francisco Bay, this gorgeous setup assures sophisticated service, accommodation & amenities. The century-old esteemed hotel boats of classy rooms along with all state of the art amenities. Onsite attractions include saline whirlpool, relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials, acupuncture, fitness centers, sprawling gardens, heated pool, kids' pool & tennis courts.
Hotel Shattuck Plaza is another top pick for best luxury hotels in Berkeley. This smoke-free hotel encompasses as many as 200 rooms completely equipped with all convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen cable TV, premium bedding, hair dryer and so on. The onsite amenities are equally amazing and include a sumptuous restaurant, bar/lounge, cafe, fitness center, meeting room & 24/7 business center.
Looking for Alternative Accommodation in Berkeley
Set in 1928, the esteemed Hotel Durant is an unmatched choice for boutique Berkeley hotels. Located near the famous UC Berkeley & Botanical Garden- this hotel boasts of collegiate-themed rooms with pillow-top beds, flat-screen TVs, pillow-top beds, minibus, iPod docks. The great campus overlooks the magnificent San Francisco Bay. There are executive rooms with special accession to private lounge that comes with complimentary continental breakfast, wine receptions in the evenings & PlayStation with 56, wide flat-screen TV.
Bancroft Hotel is another fitting choice for the best boutique hotels in the city. This eco-friendly retreat is set in a vintage Craftsman-style building and features cozy rooms with custom furnishing. The in-home amenities are all green starting from recycled curtains, organic bedding to organic soaps. All the rooms have used non-VOC paint to ensure a safe, green ambience all around. The hotel also features an event space & business center.
FAQs about hotels in Berkeley