DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina overlooks the Berkeley Marina with views straight out across San Francisco Bay. Dogs stay free here, and the location puts you less than 5 miles from Emeryville and just 20 minutes from Oakland International Airport if you’re flying in.

The real draw is waking up to those views—you get sight lines to the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the whole Bay stretched out in front of you. The hotel sits right on the marina, so you and your dog can walk the waterfront paths directly from the property. It’s a quick drive to UC Berkeley’s campus if you want to explore the area around campus, and you’re positioned well for day trips into Oakland or across the bridge to San Francisco without being stuck downtown.

On the grounds, there’s an indoor pool and fitness center. The Berkeley Boathouse restaurant overlooks the water, and dogs are allowed on the patio—nice if you want a meal without leaving your dog in the room. Room service is available if you’d rather eat in, which is always convenient when traveling with a dog.

The location works especially well if you’re using the hotel as a base for exploring the East Bay. You’ve got the marina right there for walks, the area around Emeryville is close by, and Oakland is just across the water. The views alone make the rooms feel less like a standard hotel stay and more like you’ve actually made it somewhere worth visiting. On clear days, the Golden Gate Bridge visibility is exceptional, and there’s something about being this close to the water that changes how a hotel feels, even after a long travel day.