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

Updated: February 19, 2024, 7:25pm CST

Edited by:

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

SFO Terminal Map
- SFO Airport Lounges by Terminal
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Facilities
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Access
Air France-KLM Lounge
- Air France-KLM Lounge Facilities
- Air France-KLM Lounge Access
Alaska Lounge
- Alaska Lounge Facilities
- Alaska Lounge Access
- Alaska Lounge House Rules
American Airlines Admirals Club
- American Airlines Admirals Club Lounge Facilities
- American Airlines Admirals Club Access
- American Airlines Admirals Club House Rules
British Airways Club Lounge
- British Airways Club Lounge Facilities
- British Airways Club Lounge Access
- British Airways Club Lounge House Rules
Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge
- Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge Facilities
- Cathay Pacific First and Business Lounge Access
Centurion Lounge
- Centurion Lounge Facilities
- Centurion Lounge Access
- Centurion Lounge House Rules
China Airlines Dynasty Lounge
- China Airlines Dynasty Lounge Facilities
- China Airlines Dynasty Lounge Access
Delta Sky Club
- Delta Sky Club Facilities
- Delta Sky Club Access
- Delta Sky Club House Rules
Emirates Lounge
- Emirates Lounge Facilities
- Emirates Lounge Access
- Emirates Lounge House Rules
Freshen Up
- Freshen Up Facilities
- Freshen Up Access
Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge
- Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge Facilities
- Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge Access
- Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge House Rules
United Airlines United Club
- United Airlines United Club Facilities
- United Airlines United Club Access
- United Airlines United Club House Rules
United Airlines Polaris Lounge
- United Polaris Lounge Access
- United Polaris House Rules
USO Lounge
- USO Lounge Facilities
- USO Lounge Access
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Facilities
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Access
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse House Rules
Connecting Between Terminals for Lounge Access
Best Credit Cards To Access Priority Pass Lounges
Final Thoughts

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Serving more than 57 million passengers annually (in 2019), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the seventh-busiest airport in the U.S. 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 of the lounges are exclusively for premium cabin passengers or frequent flyers with elite status, but there are a few that 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. Image Credit: San Francisco International Airport

SFO Airport Lounges by Terminal

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Terminal	Lounges
Terminal 1	American Airlines Admirals Club USO Lounge
Terminal 2	Alaska Lounge Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Delta Sky Club
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 (temporarily closed) China Airlines Dynasty Lounge Emirates Lounge Japan Airlines JAL Sakura 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, take a look at our terminal guide to San Francisco International Airport.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

Location: Terminal 2, after security

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 $20 before 11 a.m. or $30 after 11 a.m., per person
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)
Aeroplan Elite 35K members	Passengers must have a same-day boarding carto access the lounge before their flight
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 $20 before 11 a.m. or $30 after 11 a.m., per person
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 Card: $599 TD^® Aeroplan^® Visa Infinite Card: $139 TD^® Aeroplan^® Visa Business Card: $149 CIBC Aerogold^® Visa Infinite Card: $139 CIBC Aerogold^® Visa Card for Business: $180 CIBC Aerogold^® Visa Infinite Privilege Card: $599
Select American Express AeroplanPlus cardmembers (Reserve, Platinum, Corporate Platinum)	Passengers must have a same-day boarding card and may access the lounge on presentation of their American Express AeroplanPlus 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 $20 before 11 a.m. or $30 after 11 a.m., per person
Latitude, Comfort, or Flex fare passengers that purchase lounge access	Passengers may purchase access to the lounge with a same-day boarding card	Valid for Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and under the Air Canada Express banner

Air France-KLM Lounge

Location: International Terminal A, left after security near gate A1
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.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
Priority Pass and Lounge Club	Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card Guest access depends on Priority Pass membership	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

Hot Tip: The Air France lounge at SFO is considered one of the best Priority Pass lounges in the U.S.

Alaska Lounge

Location: Terminal 2, just beyond the D security checkpoint
Opening Hours: 5:00 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	$60 Valid traveling with any airline
Alaska Lounge membership	Passengers must have a same-day boarding card Passengers may bring up to 2 guests or their immediate family	Standard members: $550 Mileage Plan MVP/MVP Gold/MVP Gold 75K/MVP Gold 100K: $450 Valid traveling with any airline Cardholders of Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® Credit Card get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership
First class	First class passengers may only access the lounge if their flight is at least 2,100 miles Lounge access is available on the day of the flight only, to any of lounges in that day’s itinerary, including connecting flights that are less than 2,100 miles	Valid on an Alaska Airlines-operated flight Not valid for passengers traveling on upgraded fares
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K	Passengers must have a same-day boarding card	Valid flying with any Oneworld airline to any destination outside of the U.S., Mexico, or Canada
Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire	Passengers must have a same-day boarding card Passengers may bring 1 guest also on a flight operated and marketed by a Oneworld carrier	Valid flying with any Oneworld airline to Mexico City, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, or Australia Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald passengers that hold status with a non-U.S. airline may access the Alaska lounge when traveling domestically
Emirates Skywards Gold and Platinum Hainan Airlines Fortune Wings Platinum and Gold Icelandair Saga Club Gold	Passengers must have a same-day boarding card	Valid flying on an international flight connecting to Alaska Airlines
Admirals Club members	Members may access the lounge with a same-day boarding card	Valid on an American Airlines or Alaska Airlines marketed and operated flight
Priority Pass and Lounge Pass (North Satellite Terminal Lounge only)	Access to the lounge is permitted 3 hours before a flight Access is limited to 2 guests per cardholder (per person charge where applicable)	Valid with a same-day boarding card Children under 2 are admitted free of charge Priority Pass membership: Standard $99, Standard Plus $329, Prestige $469
Active duty military	Military traveling on orders may access the lounge for free 3 hours before departing on a flight	Valid on an Alaska Airlines-operated flight

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 is 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 2 guests and up to 3 children (under 18)	$79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles Passengers must be flying with American Airlines or a partner airline (excludes JetBlue flights operating to/from Europe)
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 any Oneworld partner airline
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 JetBlue 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, any Oneworld partner airline, or marketed and operated by JetBlue (excluding JetBlue flights operating to and from Europe)
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 Airlines, any Oneworld airline, or JetBlue (see rules for the applicable access type above)
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: Take a look at where else you can find Admirals Clubs with our full list of U.S. American Airlines Admirals Club locations.

British Airways Club Lounge

British Airways Lounge SFO. Image Credit: LoungeBuddy

Location: International Terminal A, near gate A5
Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (Priority Pass access) and 1:30 p.m. to 6:45 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 Passengers may bring 1 guest (when flying on a British Airways-operated flight)	Passenger must be flying on a scheduled flight operated by British Airways or a Oneworld partner When the passenger is flying on a scheduled flight operated by British Airways, the passenger may bring 1 guest (also flying on a British Airways flight)
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
Priority Pass members	Admitted only between 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card	Passengers may access the lounge for a maximum of 3 hours Children under 2 are admitted free of charge Priority Pass membership: Standard $99, Standard Plus $329, Prestige $469

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

Location: International Terminal 1, left after security
Opening Hours: Temporarily closed until further notice

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

Location: Terminal 3, adjacent to gates F1 and F2
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 a.m. to 7 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 traveling on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight	$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

Location: International Terminal A, level 4, left after security and up the escalators
Opening Hours: Dependent on flight schedule

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

Delta Sky Club

Location: Terminal 2, level 2, Concourse C near gate C3
Opening Hours: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 12:15 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 Members may bring 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
SkyTeam Elite Plus and Delta Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members	Elite status passengers can access a Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding card Members can bring 1 guest for free	Valid when traveling on a SkyTeam international flight or connecting to/from a same-day international flight in any cabin
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*	Cardmembers have unlimited access to any Delta Sky Club with 2 free guest passes annually Members can bring up to 2 guests for $50 per person Children under 2 years of age can enter with the cardholder for free	$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
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card**	Cardmembers and up to 2 guests can access the lounge for a fee of $50 per person Children under 2 years of age can enter with the cardholder for free	$350 (rates & fees) Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta or Delta partner flight. The credit card must be used for payment
The Platinum Card^® from American Express	Cardmembers have unlimited access to any Delta Sky Club and may bring up to 2 guests for $50 per person	$695 (rates & fees) Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express		Annual Fee: $695 (rates & fees) Member must hold a same-day ticket for a Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight
LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, and WestJet Business Class Passengers	Business class passengers may access a Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding card No guest access	Valid for international travel or a connection to an international flight operated by Delta or LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, or WestJet
Select LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, and WestJet elite status members	Passengers can access a Delta Sky Club with a same-day boarding card Bring up to 1 guest	Applies to LATAM Black Signature, Black, or Platinum LATAM Pass members; Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Gold members; and WestJet Rewards Gold and Platinum members

*Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

**Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.

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 that is over 21
No gate passes will not 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

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: $130 + taxes Skyward members: $100 + 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

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) — $120 4 hours — $195 5 hours — $245 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (overnight) — $275 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 Shower with Suite rental purchase: $25 30-minute shower: $30

Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge

Japan Airlines JAO Sukura Lounge SFO — Japan Airlines JAO Sakura Lounge SFO. Image Credit: JAL

Location: International Terminal A, left out of security and up the escalators
Opening Hours: 3 hours prior to the departure time of JAL flights and closed 30 minutes prior to the departure time of JAL flights

Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge Facilities

Newspapers and magazines
Self-serve buffet food and snacks
Self-serve soft and alcoholic beverages
Wi-Fi

Japan Airlines JAL Sakura 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 traveling on the same flight	Valid on a JAL-operated flight
Business class, premium economy, and economy flex Y fare passengers	Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card
JMB Sapphire, JGC Premier, JMB Diamond, and JAL Global Club	Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card Passengers may bring 1 guest traveling on the same flight
Lounge Coupons	JMB Sapphire, JGC Premier, JMB Diamond, JAL Global Club, and JMB Crystal members may purchase a lounge coupon Passengers can access the lounge with a same-day boarding card	JMB Diamond, JGC Premier, JMB Sapphire members, and JAL Global Club: 2,000 miles for 1 lounge coupon JMB Crystal: 1,000 miles for 1 lounge coupon

Japan Airlines JAL Sakura Lounge House Rules

Visitors are not permitted to bring food or drink into the lounge
Visitors must not use mobile phones outside of the designated areas

Read the full list of rules on the JAL website.

United Airlines United Club

There are 3 United Clubs at San Francisco International Airport:

Terminal 3, mezzanine level, near gate E2: Daily from 5:45 a.m. to 10:30 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 10:30 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
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	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 years old, 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 that 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

United Polaris lounge at SFO second floor view — United Polaris Lounge. Image Credit: United

Location: International Terminal G, turn right after security
Opening Hours: Daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 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

Location: Terminal 1, pre-security 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

Location: International Terminal A, left after security, level 5
Opening Hours: From around 4 hours before the departure time of Virgin Atlantic flights (temporarily closed through March 25, 2023)

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 Gold 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: The Platinum Card^® from American Express The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express
Eligible Capital One cards	Passengers may access the clubhouse with a same-day boarding card	Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card gets unlimited access for cardholder and 2 guests Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Spark Miles for Business get 2 passes per year that can also be used at Capital One Lounges

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 that runs clockwise and counter-clockwise to all terminals. The AirTrain operates outside the secure area, so it is required to re-clear security 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 you will need to allow extra time if you’re traveling between terminals to access a particular lounge.

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, there are many credit cards that come with a complimentary Priority Pass membership. One such card is the Amex Platinum card, which not only offers access to Priority Pass lounges, but also Amex Centurion lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying same-day Delta), and Escape Lounges.

You could also opt for the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® that includes access to Priority Pass restaurants — like San Francisco Giants Clubhouse and Yankee Pier at SFO — in addition to lounges. At Priority Pass restaurants, cardholders receive a $28 credit towards their bill, and $56 when dining with a guest.

Here are some other great credit card options that allow cardholders to visit Priority Pass lounges:

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 terminal and departure terminal. 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 U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite^® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
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 for the Citi Prestige^® Card has been collected independently 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 Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® card, click here.

Featured Image Credit: United

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 Air France-KLM Lounge, China Airlines Lounge, and British Airways Club Lounge with their membership. Eligible members can also access Mustards Bar & Grill, Lark Creek Grill, San Francisco Giants Clubhouse, and Yankee Pier.

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.

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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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