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Full List of Airport Lounges at San Francisco International Airport [SFO]

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Key Takeaways

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers various lounges across its terminals, including Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, and United Polaris Lounge.
  • The United Polaris Lounge at SFO is notable for its premium dining options and private rest spaces.
  • Priority Pass members can access the British Airways Club Lounge, Golden Gate Lounge, and China Airlines Lounge.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the seventh-busiest airport in the U.S., serving more than 51 million passengers annually. Many of its nearly 20 lounges are operated by international carriers such as JAL, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific, as SFO is a major gateway to Asia and Europe.

Most SFO lounges are exclusively for premium cabin passengers or frequent flyers with elite status, but some offer day passes or accept Priority Pass.

For information on accessing lounges worldwide, see our post on the best credit cards for getting into airport lounges.

SFO Terminal Map

SFO Airport Map
SFO Airport Map. Image Credit: San Francisco International Airport

SFO Airport Lounges by Terminal

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Terminal

Lounges

Terminal 1

  • Alaska Lounge
  • American Airlines Admirals Club
  • Delta Sky Club
  • The Club SFO
  • USO Lounge

Terminal 2

  • Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

Terminal 3

  • United Airlines United Club (Concourse E mezzanine)
  • United Airlines United Club (Concourse F)
  • Centurion Lounge

International Terminal A

  • Air France-KLM Lounge
  • British Airways Club Lounge
  • Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge
  • China Airlines Dynasty Lounge
  • Emirates Lounge
  • Golden Gate Lounge
  • Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

International Terminal G

  • Freshen Up
  • United Airlines Polaris Lounge
  • United Airlines United Club

Hot Tip: For information on airport facilities, ground transportation, airlines, and more, check out our terminal guide to San Francisco International Airport.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

Air Canada Air Canada Opens First Maple Leaf Lounge at San Franc
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge at SFO. Image Credit: CNW Group/Air Canada

Location: Terminal 2, sector 4, fourth floor
Opening Hours: Monday through Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 5:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.; Thursday and Sunday: 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Facilities

  • E-gates and biometric identification
  • Full bar
  • Hot and cold buffet
  • Outdoor terrace
  • Showers
  • VIP room

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Air Canada Signature class and business class

Premium cabin passengers must have a same-day boarding card to access the lounge before their flight.

  • Valid for Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, Air Canada codeshare flight, or with a Star Alliance partner airline
  • Passengers may bring guests for $59.

Aeroplan Super Elite 100K, Elite 75K, and Elite 50K members

  • Passengers must have a same-day boarding card and may access the lounge before the flight or on arrival from an Air Canada flight.
  • Passengers may bring a domestic partner and/or up to 5 dependents (under 25 years old).

Star Alliance Gold members

  • Members traveling in any cabin may access the lounge before their flight with a same-day boarding card.
  • Members are permitted to bring 1 guest free of charge traveling on the same flight.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Club members (sales of memberships have been temporarily suspended)

North America Plus and Worldwide members may access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

  • North America Plus membership: CA$495 (annually) for Individual membership; CA$730 (annually) for partner membership
  • Worldwide membership: CA$665 (annually) for Individual membership; CA$970 (annually) for partner membership
  • Valid for Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, Air Canada codeshare flight, or with a Star Alliance partner airline.
  • Passengers may bring guests for $59.

One-time guest access benefits for TD and CIBC Aeroplan-affiliated cardholders

Members can access the lounge 1 or 4 times annually (depending on the credit card) when traveling on a departing Air Canada flight.

  • Valid when redeemed through your Aeroplan account on flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, or under the Air Canada Express banner
  • Annual credit card fees:
    • TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card: $599
    • TD® Aeroplan® Visa Business Card: $149
    • CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Business Card: $180
    • CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Card: $599

Select American Express Aeroplan cardmembers (Corporate, Reserve, Business Reserve, Corporate Reserve)

Passengers must have a same-day boarding card and may access the lounge on presentation of their American Express Aeroplan card.

  • Valid for Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, under the Air Canada Express banner, Air Canada codeshare, or select Air Canada partner flights
  • Passengers may bring guests for $59.

Premium Economy, Latitude, Comfort, or Flex fare passengers that purchase lounge access (at least 24 hours before travel)

Passengers may purchase access to the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

  • Lounge fee:
    • Premium Economy: $49 to $58.80
    • Latitude fare: $49 to $58.80
    • Comfort fare: $59 to $70.80
    • Flex fare: $79 to $94.80
  • Valid for Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and under the Air Canada Express banner

Premium Rogue Passengers

Premium Rogue passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Valid for flights within Canada, to the U.S. and Sun destinations

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Must be flying Air Canada or a Star Alliance carrier

  • Access includes authorized users but excludes guests. Guest access costs $59 per person.
  • Annual card fee: $550 and $75 for each authorized user

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge House Rules

  • Access to the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge is generally for departing passengers only. The only exception is for Aeroplan Super Elite 100K, Elite 75K, and Elite 50K members, who may access a lounge on arrival from a domestic flight.
  • A same-day boarding card must be displayed at reception.
  • Mobile phones must not be used in the lounge’s cell-free zones.

Read the full list of house rules on the Air Canada website.

Air France-KLM Lounge

Air France KLM Lounge SFO
Air France KLM Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, post-security, level 3
Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday through Sunday: 10 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Air France-KLM Lounge Facilities

  • Business services
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Snacks and cold food
  • Wi-Fi

Air France-KLM Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Day pass

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

  • $50 or 6,000 miles
  • Passengers must be flying on an Air France, KLM, or Delta-operated flight.

Business class

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card

  • Valid when traveling on an international Air France, KLM, or SkyTeam flight
  • Guests may purchase a day pass.

La Premiere

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.
  • Valid when traveling on an international Air France, KLM, or SkyTeam flight
  • The guest must be traveling on an international Air France, KLM, or SkyTeam flight and must be departing from the same hall as the passenger.

Flying Blue Gold and Platinum

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest and children under 18 years of age.

SkyTeam Elite Plus

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Alaska Lounge

Alaska Airlines Lounge6
Alaska Lounge at SFO in T1. Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

Location: Terminal 1, across from gate B6
Opening Hours: 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Alaska Lounge Facilities

  • Concierge services
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Snacks and cold food
  • Wi-Fi

Alaska Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Day pass

  • Passengers must have a same-day boarding card
  • Day passes are good for 24 hours only at the location where they were purchased
  • $65
  • Valid traveling with Alaska Airlines, oneworld member airline, or global partners

Alaska Lounge and Lounge+ members

Passengers traveling with a same-day boarding card may access the lounge and bring up to 2 guests or their immediate family.

Alaska Airlines First class passengers

  • Passengers traveling with a paid first class ticket or a first class award ticket may access the lounge before their flight when flying on itineraries that include a segment that is over 2,000 miles.
  • Upgraded first class tickets (U class) operated by Alaska Airlines are not eligible for complimentary lounge access.
  • Valid flying first class with Alaska Airlines on flights operated by Alaska Airlines where 1 flight has a distance of at least 2,000 miles on the day of travel
  • Valid for Club 49 members on first class tickets on flights operated by Alaska Airlines to, through, or from Alaska, regardless of flight distance on the day of their flight
  • Upgraded guests, whether complimentary, paid, or using miles, can purchase a single-entry lounge pass for $30, subject to availability.

American Admirals Club Member Access

Admirals Club members may bring immediate family (partner and children under 21) or up to 2 friends at no extra charge.

  • Complimentary access when departing or arriving on flights marketed and operated by American or Alaska Airlines
  • Admirals Club members must present current physical or digital Admirals Club membership card.
  • Complimentary access for all Concierge Key Members who present current physical or digital card
  • Complimentary access for all Airpass Members who present physical or digital card
  • Complimentary access for all Citi Executive primary cardholders who present physical card (authorized users not included)

Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire, including Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP Gold, Gold 75K, and Gold 100K

  • Emerald and Sapphire members may invite 1 guest to join them in the lounge.
  • If you’ve earned Emerald or Sapphire through an airline other than American or Alaska, you are not required to have an international itinerary.
  • All guests must include their eligible frequent flyer number on their reservation prior to check-in to access the lounge.
  • Oneworld frequent flyer membership cards do not grant access to the lounge, and the frequent flyer number on the reservation determines eligibility.
  • Valid traveling on a Oneworld member airline to a destination outside of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico
  • American Airlines Emerald and Sapphire may access the Alaska Lounge when traveling on a Oneworld member airline to a destination outside of the US, Canada, Mexico (excluding Mexico City), or the Caribbean.

Paid or award business class ticket on Oneworld member airlines or on on select American Airlines transcontinental routes with Oneworld qualifying access

Passengers must have a same-day boarding pass.

  • Valid for Oneworld flyers traveling on a paid business class or a business class award ticket on a Oneworld member airline with at least one international leg greater than 5 hours in length. The business class ticket must be on the international segment
  • Valid for AA flyers when traveling on a paid first class or a first class award ticket on flights operated by American Airlines on JFK–LAX and LAX–JFK routes

Active-duty military

Military traveling on orders may access the lounge for free 3 hours before departing on a flight.

Valid traveling with Alaska Airlines

Alaska Lounge House Rules

  • Infants under 2 are admitted free of charge.
  • Members may purchase guest passes for a reduced rate of $30 for additional guests.
  • Visitors are requested to use headphones when using their personal devices.
  • Food and drink are not permitted to be brought in or taken out of the lounge.

Read the full list of house rules on Alaska Airlines’ website.

American Airlines Admirals Club

SFO Admirals Club
American Airlines Admirals Club SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: Terminal 1, Concourse B near gate B13
Opening Hours: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

American Airlines Admirals Club Lounge Facilities

  • Business services
  • Conference room
  • Premium food and drink for purchase
  • Showers
  • Snacks
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

American Airlines Admirals Club Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Day pass

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers can bring up to 3 children (under 18).
  • $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles
  • Passengers must be flying with American Airlines or marketed and operated by any oneworld airline.

Admirals Club members

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Members can bring their immediate family (including spouse and children under 18) or up to 2 guests.

AAdvantage Status

Fee

AAdvantage

$850 (85,000 miles)

AAdvantage Gold

$825 (82,500 miles)

AAdvantage Platinum

$800 (80,000 miles)

AAdvantage Platinum Pro

$775 (77,500 miles)

AAdvantage Executive Platinum

$750 (75,000 miles)

Flight must be marketed or operated by American Airlines or Oneworld partner airline or marketed by Aer Lingus and operated by American (please refer to admittance section).

First and business passengers

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card for an international flight.

Flight must be marketed and operated by American Airlines or a Oneworld partner airline, or marketed by Aer Lingus and operated by American.

AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Platinum

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card for an international flight, traveling in any cabin.
  • Eligible passengers are permitted to bring 1 guest (infants under 2 years are admitted for free).

Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card for an international flight, traveling in any cabin.
  • Eligible passengers are permitted to bring 1 guest (infants under 2 years are admitted for free).
  • Flight must be marketed and operated by American Airlines or a Oneworld partner airline.
  • Passengers may not access the lounge if traveling solely on North American routes.

Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard cardmembers and authorized users ($175 per year)

  • Cardholders receive a free Admirals Club membership with this credit card (see Admirals Club members details above).
  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card, along with immediate family (including spouse and children under 18) or up to 2 guests.
  • $595
  • Flight must be marketed or operated by American Airlines, marketed and operated by any Oneworld partner airline.

Military

  • Uniformed military personnel with a same-day boarding card can access the lounge.
  • Passengers can bring immediate family members (including spouse and children under 18) or up to 2 guests.

Valid on an American Airlines-operated flight

American Airlines Admirals Club House Rules

  • A same-day boarding card is required for a flight marketed or operated by American, any Oneworld airline, or marketed by Aer Lingus and operated by American (see rules for the applicable access type above). The only exception is for existing Admirals Club Lifetime Members, who may continue to access the Admirals Club with same-day travel on any airline.
  • Guests may have appropriate access to the required terminal or concourse, as gate passes will not be issued for entry.
  • Existing Admirals Club Lifetime Members may access the Admirals Club with same-day travel on any airline.
  • A government-issued photo ID is required along with the relevant access card (e.g., AAdvantage membership card or number) and a same-day boarding card.

Read the full list of house rules on American Airlines’ website.

Hot Tip: Check out our full list of U.S. American Airlines Admirals Club locations to see where else you can find Admirals Clubs

British Airways Club Lounge

British Airways Lounge SFO
British Airways Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, near gate A5
Opening Hours: Daily from 1:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

British Airways Club Lounge Facilities

  • Buffet food with snacks and sandwiches
  • Business center
  • Direct boarding from the lounge
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Showers
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

British Airways Club Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

First class passengers

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Passenger and guest must be flying on scheduled flights operated by British Airways or a Oneworld partner.

Business (Club World) passengers

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Passenger and guest must be flying on scheduled flights operated by British Airways.

Executive Club Silver or Gold member

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passenger must be flying on a scheduled flight operated by British Airways or a Oneworld partner.

Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire member

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Passenger and guest must be flying on scheduled flights operated by British Airways or a Oneworld partner.

British Airways Club Lounge House Rules

  • Children over the age of 2 will be counted as a guest.
  • Passengers must display their boarding card and frequent flyer membership card (if applicable).

View the full list of house rules on the Oneworld website.

Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge

Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge SFO
Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, after security, level 4 near gate A1
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday: 8:15 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Thursday and Saturday: 8:15 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Wednesday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge Facilities

  • Business center
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Noodle bar
  • Self-serve snacks and sandwiches
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Showers
  • Wi-Fi

Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

First class

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Passenger and guest must be flying on a Cathay Pacific or Oneworld flight.

Business class

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Marco Polo Diamond

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 2 guests.

Marco Polo Gold

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Marco Polo Silver

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Cargo Clan Elite

Oneworld Emerald

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Oneworld Sapphire

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Centurion Lounge

Centurion Lounge at SFO
The Centurion Lounge SFO. Image Credit: Centurion Lounge

Location: Terminal 3, Concourse F, post-security, at the connector to G gates
Opening Hours: Daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Centurion Lounge Facilities

  • Business services
  • Family room
  • Open kitchen
  • Premium bar
  • Self-serve hot and cold dishes
  • Semi-private workspaces
  • Showers
  • Wine tasting area

Centurion Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 2 guests at a charge of $50 per person, or $30 per child ages 2 to 17 with proof of age; complimentary guest access is unlocked after spending $75,000 in a year.
  • $695 (rates & fees)
  • Passengers may be flying with any carrier.
  • Additional guest passes may be purchased for $50 per person.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Annual Fee: $695 (rates & fees)
  • Passengers may be flying with any carrier
  • Additional guest passes may be purchased for $50 per person

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 2 guests at a charge of $50 per person.
  • $650 (rates & fees)
  • Passengers must be flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated ticket, only for Centurion lounges in the U.S., Hong Kong, and London.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

  • $650 (rates & fees)
  • Passengers must be flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated ticket, only for Centurion lounges in the U.S., Hong Kong, and London.

Centurion Lounge House Rules

  • Family members and guests are not permitted to access the lounge or remain in the lounge without the relevant cardholder.
  • Complimentary guest access is per day.
  • Children under 2 years are admitted free of charge with proof of age.

China Airlines Dynasty Lounge

China Airlines Dynasty Lounge SFO
China Airlines Dynasty Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, level 4, left after security and up the escalators
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

China Airlines Dynasty Lounge Facilities

  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve hot and cold food
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic drinks
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

China Airlines Dynasty Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Business class

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Passengers must be flying on a China Airlines flight.

SkyTeam Elite Plus

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Passengers and guests must be flying on a SkyTeam-operated flight.

Dynasty Flyer Program Gold member

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

Passengers must be flying on a China Airlines flight.

Dynasty Flyer Program Emerald member

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 1 guest.

Dynasty Flyer Program Paragon member

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring 2 guests.

The Club SFO

The Club SFO bar
The Club SFO. Image Credit: Carissa Rawson

Location: Terminal 1, near gate B4
Opening Hours: Daily from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Club SFO Facilities

  • Family Room/li>
  • Self-serve hot and cold food
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Showers
  • Luminescence Room
  • Workout Studio

The Club SFO Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Day pass

Any passenger may purchase entry with a same-day boarding card.

$75

Priority Pass

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

  • Passengers may access the lounge for a maximum of 3 hours.
  • Cardholders must be 21 years old.
  • Children under 2 are admitted free of charge.
  • Priority Pass membership: Standard $99, Standard Plus $329, Prestige $469

Delta Sky Club

Delta Sky Club SFO
Delta Sky Club SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: Terminal 2, level 2, Concourse C near gate C3
Opening Hours: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Delta Sky Club Facilities

  • Business services
  • Delta Sky Club ambassador for assistance
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve bar with soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Self-serve buffet food and snacks
  • Showers
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

Hot Tip: For information on locations, amenities, and opening hours, here’s a full list of U.S. Delta Sky Clubs.

Delta Sky Club Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Executive membership

  • Members have unlimited access to any Delta Sky Club along with 2 guests or immediate family.
  • Members may bring two additional guests for a fee of $50 per person.
  • $1,495 (annually) | 149,500 miles
  • Passengers and guests must be traveling with a same-day boarding card with Delta or a Delta partner airline (excludes existing Delta Lifetime members that can access the lounge when traveling on any airline).
  • Individuals must be 18 years old to qualify for membership.

Individual membership

  • Individual members have unlimited access to any Delta Sky Club.
  • Members can bring up to 2 guests for $50 per person.
  • $695 (annually) | 69,500 miles
  • Passengers and guests must be traveling with a same-day boarding card with Delta or a Delta partner airline (excludes existing Delta Lifetime members that can access the lounge when traveling on any airline).
  • Individuals must be 18 years old to qualify for membership.

Delta Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members

  • Medallion members can access a Delta Sky Club on the same day of travel and may bring 1 guest.
  • Passengers can access the lounge when flying Delta Premium Select internationally or in Delta One (or equivalent cabin on a Delta partner flight).
  • Guest must also be travelling in Delta Premium Select or Delta One (or an equivantent cabin on a Delta partner flight).
  • Medallion members traveling in First Class (or an equivalent cabin on a Delta partner flight) to Mexico, Canada, and Central America may access the lounge with one guest (also traveling in First Class or an equivalent cabin on a Delta partner flight).

SkyTeam Elite Plus

Elite status passengers can access a Delta Sky Club on the same day of travel with 1 guest.

Passengers traveling in any cabin may access the lounge when traveling on a SkyTeam international flight or SkyTeam domestic flight connecting to/from a same-day international flight (includes same-day travel on a Delta domestic flight connecting to an international Delta or any other SkyTeam partner flight.

Delta One or SkyTeam Premium cabin

Passengers can access a Delta Sky Club on the same day of travel.

  • Flying Delta: Delta One passengers can access the lounge when flying domestically or when connecting to/from an international flight.
  • Flying on a SkyTeam flight: Premium passengers can access the lounge if confirmed in the first or business cabin for all segments of the journey.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

  • 15 visits Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding card; earn unlimited visits after spending $75,000 in purchases in a calendar year.
  • Cardmembers receive 4 one-time guest passes per year
  • Members can bring up to 2 guests for $50 per person
  • $650 (rates & fees)
  • Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight. The credit card must be used for payment.
  • Passengers traveling on Delta partner flight can access the lounge for $50.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

10 visits to Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta) with the ability to unlock unlimited visits through spend

  • $695 (rates & fees)
  • Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-operated flight or Delta marketed flight operated by WestJet.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

  • $695 (rates & fees)
  • Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight operated by WestJet.

Centurion Card Members

  • Initiation fee: $10,000
  • Annual membership fee: $5,000
  • Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight operated by WestJet.

LATAM Business Class Passengers

  • Passengers may access any Delta Sky Club.
  • No guests permitted.
  • LATAM business class passengers may access the lounge with a same-day boarding pass for international travel or in conjunction with an international flight connection operated by Delta or LATAM. No guests are permitted.

LATAM Black Signature, Black, or Platinum LATAM Pass Member

Members may access any Delta Sky Club and may bring 1 guest.

  • These members may access any Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding pass in any class of service or in conjunction with a same-day connecting international flight operated by Delta or LATAM.

WestJet Business Class Passengers

  • Passengers may access a Delta Sky Club.
  • No guest access
  • WestJet business class passengers may access the lounge with a same-day boarding pass for international travel or in conjunction with an international flight connection operated by Delta or WestJet. No guests are permitted.

WestJet Rewards Gold and Platinum members

Members may access any Delta Sky Club and may bring 1 guest..

  • WestJet Gold and Platinum members can access any Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding pass for a transborder flight between the U.S. and Canada operated by WestJet or Delta. One guest is permitted and must stay with the member for the entire stay.

Certain Japan-based SkyMiles credit cards can access Sky Clubs, including Delta SkyMiles® Diners Club Card, Delta SkyMiles® Trust Club Platinum Visa Card, and Delta SkyMiles® Trust Club Gold Visa Card. See Delta’s international credit card website for specific details, fees, and policies.

Delta Sky Club House Rules

  • Flights must be marketed or operated by Delta Air Lines or a Delta partner airline (see above for applicable rules for access type).
  • Same-day travel on any airline applies to existing Delta Lifetime Members.
  • Members must be 18 years old; guests under the age of 21 will not be permitted access to a lounge with a self-serve bar in the U.S. unless they are traveling with another member who is over 21.
  • No gate passes will be issued for entry, so guests must have access to the required terminal or concourse when visiting a lounge.
  • Delta has discontinued the sale of single-visit passes.
  • Passengers will be able to access Delta Sky Clubs within 3 hours of their scheduled departure time, while connecting passengers can access Delta Sky Clubs in the connecting airport at any time before departure.

Read the full list of house rules on the Delta Air Lines’ website.

Emirates Lounge

Emirates Lounge SFO
Emirates Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, between gates A2 and A6
Opening Hours: Winter: Daily from 11:40 p.m. to 3:40 p.m.; Summer: Daily from 12:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Emirates Lounge Facilities

  • Business center
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Prayer room
  • Self-serve buffet with premium hot and cold dishes
  • Self-serve soft and alcoholic beverages
  • Showers
  • Wi-Fi

Emirates Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members

  • Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card before a departing flight.
  • Passengers may travel in any cabin and be accompanied by eligible traveling companions.
  • Passengers may access the lounge for 4 hours prior to the flight.
  • Valid on Emirates-marketed and operated flights and Emirates codeshare flights operated by Qantas
  • Passengers may purchase access for additional companions for $100.
  • Children under 12 are charged at 50% of the rate.
  • Infants under 2 years are admitted free of charge.
  • Emirates Gold members may bring in 1 guest (adult or child), while Emirates Platinum members may bring in 1 guest (adult or up to 2 children).

Day pass

Economy and business class special passengers may purchase access to the lounge with a same-day boarding card.

  • Standard passengers: $155 + taxes
  • Skyward members: $125 + taxes
  • Valid on an Emirates-operated flight

First class and business class passengers

Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card before a departing flight.

Valid on Emirates-marketed and operated flights

Emirates Lounge House Rules

  • Companions with paid entry must be on the same eligible Emirates flight to gain entry.
  • Paid entry is limited to 4 hours prior to the scheduled departure time for Dubai and 3 hours for all other airports.
  • Accepted payments are by credit or debit card, and miles redemption or cash are not accepted.

Read the full list of house rules on Emirates’ website.

Freshen Up

Freshen Up SFO
Freshen Up SFO. Image Credit: San Francisco International Airport

Location: Terminal G, near the entrance to gates G1 to G14
Opening Hours: 24/7

Freshen Up Facilities

  • Ironing facilities
  • Nap rooms
  • Showers
  • Toiletries

Freshen Up Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Paid access

Any passenger may use the nap rooms and services at Freshen Up

  • Small nap room:
    • 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
      • 3 hours (minimum) — $150
      • 4 hours — $195
      • 5 hours — $245
    • 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (overnight) — $275
    • Shower with Suite rental purchase: $25
    • Additional person in nap room: $25
  • Large nap room:
    • 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
      • 3 hours (minimum) — $175
      • 4 hours — $210
      • 5 hours — $255
    • 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (overnight) — $290
  • 30-minute shower: $30

Golden Gate Lounge

SFO Terminal A Golden Gate Lounge entrance
Golden Gate Lounge SFO. Image Credit: Jessica Merritt

Golden Gate Lounge Facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Self-serve bar
  • Self-serve buffet food and snacks
  • Wi-Fi

Golden Gate Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

Air France, KLM, AeroMexico, Korean Air, Phillipine Airlines, Qatar Airways Passengers

Passengers have single access with a same-day boarding pass.

Passengers must be flying on a premium fare.

Priority Pass, LoungeKey, Lounge Pass, and Diner’s Club Members

Passengers must have a same-day boarding pass.

Guest access dependent on membership

United Airlines United Club

United Airlines United Club SFO
United Airlines United Club SFO Terminal 3 Concourse E. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

There are 3 United Clubs at San Francisco International Airport:

  • Terminal 3, mezzanine level, near gate E2: Daily from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Terminal 3, Concourse F, near gate F11: Daily from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m.
  • International Terminal G, between gates G6 and G9: Daily from 7 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

United Airlines United Club Facilities

  • Business services
  • Full-service bar
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve buffet food and snacks
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

United Airlines United Club Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

United Club membership

Members have unlimited access to United Club lounges with a same-day boarding card along with up to 2 guests.

General member, Premier Silver, and Premier Gold

$650 (85,000 miles) annual fee

Premier Platinum

$600 (80,000 miles) annual fee

Premier 1K and United Global Services

$550 (75,000 miles) annual fee

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Included

Members must be traveling on a United, Star Alliance, or contracted partner flight

United Club day pass

Passengers have single access to any United Club with a same-day boarding card.

  • $59 (purchased online or on the door)
  • Passengers must be traveling on a United, Star Alliance, or contracted partner flight.

United Polaris business class

Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card at their departure, connecting, and arrival airports (domestic arrivals only).

Valid for travel on a United Airlines flight

United Business (international flights)

Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card at their departure, connecting, and arrival airports (domestic arrivals only)

Also applies to passengers traveling to/from Canada in United First

United Business (premium transcontinental flights)

Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card at their departure, and destination airports (domestic arrivals only).

Applies to flights between:

New York (JFK) – Los Angeles (LAX)

Newark (EWR) – Los Angeles (LAX)

New York (JFK) – San Francisco (SFO)

Newark (EWR) – San Francisco (SFO)

First class on a Star Alliance airline

  • Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card at the departure airport of their international flight.
  • Passengers are permitted to bring 1 guest.

Passengers must be traveling on a Star Alliance airline

Business class on a Star Alliance airline

Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card at the departure airport of their international flight.

United Premier Gold or Star Alliance Gold status

  • Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card for an international flight.
  • Access is possible at the departure airport, during connection, or on arrival.
  • Passengers are permitted to bring 1 guest traveling on the same flight.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Club membership

(Maple leaf memberships are temporarily suspended)

  • Passengers can access any United Club with a same-day boarding card.
  • Maple Leaf Club North America members can access lounges in U.S. locations only.
  • Maple Leaf Club Worldwide members can access lounges in worldwide locations and may bring 1 guest.
  • Passengers must be traveling on a Star Alliance airline.
  • North America pass: Individual: CA$495; Partner: CA$730
  • Worldwide pass: Individual: CA$665; Partner: CA$970

Active U.S. military

  • Passengers must have a valid boarding card for a flight departing within 24 hours.
  • Passengers must also be dressed in uniform, be on leave orders, or have rest and recuperation papers.
  • Can invite family members with gate passes or traveling on the same flight.

Passengers must be traveling on a United or United Express flight.

Virgin Australia Velocity (Velocity Gold, Platinum, and VIP)

  • Passengers must have a valid same-day boarding pass.
  • Eligible members traveling on a United-operated flight may bring 1 guest.

Passengers must be traveling on an international United or Virgin Australia-operated flight departing from the same airport.

Hot Tip: If you’re active military, see our guide to the best credit cards for military members, as many issuers will waive annual fees, and you can still use complimentary lounge access benefits offered by those cards. 

United Airlines United Club House Rules

  • A same-day boarding card is required for a flight operated by United, Star Alliance, or a contracted partner airline.
  • United Club members can be accompanied by 1 spouse and child under 21 or up to 2 guests.
  • Although the minimum age for membership is 18, guests must be 21 to access a club with a self-serve bar in the U.S. The only exception is if they are traveling with another member who is over 21.
  • Day pass guests may bring 1 infant under 2, free of charge.
  • Day pass guests may be refused entry if the lounge is at or nearing capacity.

Read the full list of house rules on United’s website.

United Airlines Polaris Lounge

IAD Polaris Library
United Polaris Lounge. Image Credit: James Larounis

Location: International Terminal G, turn right after security
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

  • À la carte dining
  • Business services with printers and copiers
  • Daybeds
  • Full-service bar including beer, wine, spirits, and barista coffee
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Self-serve buffet with hot and cold options
  • Shower suites with amenities
  • Wi-Fi
  • Work stations

United Polaris Lounge Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

United Polaris business class

Passengers may access the lounge with a same-day boarding card, departing for a flight or connecting.

Valid for international flights on a United-operated flight

Star Alliance international first class

  • Passengers may access the lounge with a same-day boarding card at the departure airport for an international flight.
  • Passengers may be accompanied by 1 guest.

Valid for international flights on a Star Alliance-operated flight

Star Alliance international business class

Passengers may access the lounge with a same-day boarding card at the departure airport for an international flight.

United Polaris House Rules

  • United Polaris is available on transpacific or transatlantic flights and on flights from the U.S. to Buenos Aires, Lima, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Santiago.
  • Passengers flying on discounted industry fares or staff travel tickets are not permitted in the lounge.
  • For Star Alliance admittance, long-haul international routes are classed as the U.S. to Asia, Australia, Europe, and select South American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Peru).

Read the full list of house rules on United’s website.

USO Lounge

USO Lounge SFO
Image Credit: USO

Location: Terminal 1, presecurity above the American Airlines ticket counter
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

USO Lounge Facilities

  • Books and magazines
  • Children’s room
  • Gaming
  • Lounge with TV
  • Refreshments
  • Snacks
  • Wi-Fi
  • Work areas with computers

USO Lounge Access

The USO Lounge is available to active duty, guard, reserve military, and their dependents, and retired military.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse SFO
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, left after security, level 5
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Facilities

  • À la carte dining
  • Business services
  • Full-service bar
  • Magazines and newspapers
  • Showers
  • TVs
  • Wi-Fi

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Access

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Access Type

Details

Fees and Policies

  • Upper Class passengers
  • Flying Club Gold members
  • Delta SkyMiles Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion
  • Flying Blue and Platinum cardholders
  • Virgin Australia Velocity The Club, Platinum, and Gold cardholders
  • Air New Zealand Gold or Elite members when traveling to London-Heathrow
  • Passengers may access the Clubhouse with a same-day boarding card.
  • Passengers may bring a guest if they are traveling on the same day, from the same terminal.
  • Valid when flying on a Virgin Atlantic flight
  • Guests may accompany the eligible passenger if traveling on a flight with Air France, Delta Air Lines, KLM, or Virgin Atlantic.

Delta One international passengers and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Elite Gold members and PPS cardholders

Passengers may access the clubhouse with a same-day boarding card.

Valid when flying on a Virgin Atlantic flight

Eligible American Express cards

Limited access hours may apply.

Access is permitted with certain Amex cards, including:

Eligible Capital One cards

Passengers may access the clubhouse with a same-day boarding card.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse House Rules

  • Guests must be accompanied into the clubhouse by the eligible passenger. Guests arriving before or after the passenger will not be admitted.
  • Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult when using the lounge.

Read the full list of house rules on Virgin Atlantic’s website.

Connecting Between Terminals for Lounge Access

Passengers can travel around the airport on the AirTrain, which runs clockwise and counterclockwise to all terminals. The AirTrain operates outside the secure area, so reclearing security is required to access the next terminal.

It’s possible to walk between some terminals while remaining inside the secure area, but some walkways are restricted due to ongoing construction work. Terminal 3 passengers can walk inside the secure area to departure gates G in the International Terminal.

For all other connections, passengers will need to re-clear security, so if you’re traveling between terminals to access a particular lounge, you will need to allow extra time.

Hot Tip: Read our ultimate terminal guide for San Francisco International Airport for more information about connecting between terminals. 

Best Credit Cards To Access Priority Pass Lounges

The Priority Pass lounge network offers several options at SFO and more than 1,400 lounge options worldwide — making it the largest airport lounge network in the world. So, how can travelers access these lounges?

Fortunately, many credit cards come with a complimentary Priority Pass membership. One such card is the Amex Platinum card, which offers access to Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment), Amex Centurion loungesPlaza Premium Lounges, 10 visits to Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta) with the ability to unlock unlimited visits through spend, and Escape Lounges.

You could also opt for the Chase Sapphire Reserve card or another great credit card option that allows cardholders to visit Priority Pass lounges (enrollment may be required), such as the following:

Final Thoughts

SFO has a good selection of lounges, as you would expect for a large international airport. Although the AirTrain offers quick transportation between terminals, access can be delayed when having to clear security at both the lounge and departure terminals. Ensure you have plenty of time before your flight, and if you have TSA PreCheck, you’ll tend to have a quicker experience.

The information regarding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Delta SkyMiles® Diners Club Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Delta SkyMiles® Trust Club Platinum Visa Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Delta SkyMiles® Trust Club Gold Visa Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information for the Citi Prestige® Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Information regarding the Capital One Spark Miles for Business was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What lounges are at SFO?

There are nearly 20 lounges at San Francisco International Airport, including lounges for British Airways, Emirates, Delta, and United Airlines.

Is there a Priority Pass lounge at SFO?

Priority Pass members can access the China Airlines Lounge, Golden Gate Lounge, The Club SFO, and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse with their membership.

Is there a Qantas Lounge in San Francisco?

Qantas does not have a lounge at San Francisco International Airport, but passengers traveling in a premium cabin may access the Cathay Pacific lounge before departure.

Can you change terminals at SFO without leaving security?

It’s possible to walk between some terminals while remaining inside the secure area. Terminal 3 passengers can walk inside the secure area to departure gates G in the International Terminal.

Amar Hussain's image

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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