San Francisco's Harbor Court Hotel Inducted Into Historic Hotels of America

The historic Beaux-Arts-style building was once a YMCA along the Embarcadero.

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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San Francisco's Harbor Court Hotel has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation dedicated to recognizing, celebrating and promoting historic hotels in the U.S. Originally constructed in 1926, the hotel occupies a historic Beaux-Arts-style building that once served as a YMCA along the Embarcadero.

Why it matters

This recognition affirms the hotel's deep commitment to preserving the architectural character, stories and sense of place that make this historic waterfront property so special. It also highlights San Francisco's rich history and the city's efforts to honor its past while creating modern, welcoming experiences for today's travelers.

The details

Harbor Court Hotel is managed by Encino, Calif.-based Springboard Hospitality. The property is known for its intimate scale, waterfront location and proximity to some of San Francisco's most iconic destinations, including the Ferry Building, San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge and the city's Financial District and waterfront promenade. To be selected for membership in Historic Hotels of America, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, be designated as a National Historic Landmark or listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and be recognized as having historic significance.

  • Harbor Court Hotel was originally constructed in 1926.
  • The hotel has now been inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2026.

The players

Harbor Court Hotel

A historic waterfront hotel in San Francisco that was originally constructed in 1926 as a YMCA building in the Beaux-Arts architectural style.

Springboard Hospitality

The Encino, Calif.-based company that manages the Harbor Court Hotel.

Historic Hotels of America

The official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation dedicated to recognizing, celebrating and promoting historic hotels in the U.S.

Gail Isono

The general manager of Harbor Court Hotel.

Lawrence Horwitz

The executive vice president and president of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide.

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What they’re saying

“Harbor Court Hotel has long been a reflection of San Francisco's rich waterfront history, and we are incredibly honored to be inducted into Historic Hotels of America. This recognition affirms our deep commitment to preserving the architectural character, stories and sense of place that make this building so special. Our team takes great pride in thoughtfully honoring the past while creating a warm, welcoming experience for today's travelers.”

— Gail Isono, General Manager, Harbor Court Hotel

“Historic Hotels of America is delighted to induct Harbor Court Hotel, a historic waterfront property originally constructed in 1926.”

— Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President and President, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide

What’s next

The hotel plans to celebrate its induction into Historic Hotels of America with a special event for guests and the local community in the coming months.

The takeaway

The induction of Harbor Court Hotel into Historic Hotels of America highlights San Francisco's ongoing efforts to preserve its architectural and cultural heritage, while also adapting historic buildings to meet the needs of modern travelers. This recognition reinforces the city's reputation as a destination that values its past while embracing the future.