Dromomaniac

I've never seen any reviews or specific comments on the showers at the SFO International terminal, so I decided to check them out last week on a long layover.

For those who don't know, the showers are located within the SFO Hairport salon located in the International Terminal. If you're on the "G Gates" side of the terminal, head toward the escalators (opposite the entrance to the BART terminal). Left of the escalators is an overhang hallway that leads to the salon. As far as I'm aware, these are the only public shower facilities within SFO. Unfortunately, the salon (and showers) close up somewhat early. Hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

I arrived in the early afternoon and asked the woman at the desk about taking a shower. She said the rate was $11.00 USD. This is a rather high price, and I asked if I could see them first, to which she responded, "No. It's just a shower." I asked if the $11 was for a specific time limit, and she said no, however "If you're in there for 2 or 3 hours I'm going to come and get you."

So don't expect great customer service for your $11, but as I was on a FT mission to explore the showers, I opted to pony up the cost and check it out.

I think there are 3 separate shower rooms. Each is about 6 feet by 9 feet (perhaps 2/3 the size of the nice shower rooms at the UA RCC in NRT). However they aren't nearly as nice looking as most airport lounge shower rooms. Each one is a single-level tiled room, with a drain, partially divided, with a sink, and then a small shelf/seat. There is a curtain separating the shower from the rest of the room, so there's no chance your luggage will get wet.

I did notice there was no lock on the door of the room. I assume the shower matron notes which shower(s) are in use, and if the door is closed, that generally means it's not available. I mention this in case it's an issue for someone, however, and I did keep an eye on my stuff throughout my shower.

As I mentioned, the facility itself isn't pretty. Think typical dorm room shower. It was clean, however. The only amenities provided are a towel (smelled and looked clean) and a small bar of soap. The Hairport sells pretty much every other basic shower/hygeine supply you could need, however - though you'll pay typical airport price. I did wish that a bathmat or second towel would be provided, and perhaps I will make this request if I return.

Overall, the shower was a good experience, and I wouldn't hesitate to use them again when traveling through SFO. The price is a little steep - then again, what isn't in the international terminal (except for BART)? But if you're looking for a decent place to get clean, then it is certainly that - decent.

snorkmaster

Thanks for the review -- I was always curious about the "Hairport" showers.

It's a shame that more US airports don't offer type of service (even if it is dorm grade. )

dhuey

Thanks for the review. $11 seems like a revenue optimizing price to me. Go north of that and many will take a pass. It's low enough, low, that those who want a shower will pay it.

1kBill

Many thanks for the review. (or sacrifice? )

Is this place before or after security?

birdstrike

Before security.

i2fantsiz4

I'm a 1K flying upgraded Biz on Lufthansa 454 from FRA to SFO. I have to make it to a wedding 2 hours after I land in SFO, so I really really need to find a shower at the airport. I've used United's arrivals lounge before, but can I still use it even though I flew Lufthansa?
If not, are there other Star Alliance lounges with showers that I can use?!
Thanks!
Stinky in Milan....

lucky9876coins

Unfortunately, you can't use the UA Arrivals, since you are on LH. I can't think of any other lounge you could use for a shower.

TonySCV

I thought you can purchase a day pass to the Arrivals Lounge for $50?

jhayes_1780

The international terminal at SFO has a barbershop called the "hairport" they have private (1 room) showers that you can use for like $10 or $15. but take your own soap/shampoo, they charge a BIG premium if you buy thiers.
I used it on my last PVG-SFO flight and it was not too bad.

Edited: once you have your luggage and clear customs go toward the main terminal, instead of turning right to go to the terminal turn left and go UP the stairs (or esclator) make 2 quick rights and they are on the left.

cblaisd

http://www.flysfo.com/guide_nonflash...nfo/faq.htm#13

747LWW

I have also used this facility once onver the past 3 or 4 years. I agree with the previous poster the facility was acceptable and was much appreciated although unknown to the folks I had to meet a bit later in the day.

Pegasus23

If you have a golf membership anywhere with a country club....find the closest Golf club to the wedding; if you show your local home membership card they will usually comp you and let you use the locker room. Explaining you have to be at a wedding. Very nice folks world wide.... Worked for me once in West Marin County when all the hotels were full; though it was a funeral. [Works with Yacht clubs too]

FightingIlliniUAL

This is typical, but a significant tip (at least $20) is usually the expected compensation.

747LWW

How clever. I have never considered your suggestion but unfortuantly, this would not have been an option in my particualr case at that particular time due to timing and location issues.

Thanks for sharing.

iluv2fly

My biggest concern here would not necessarily be the shower, but landing ater an international flight and having to be at a wedding two hours later. That's cutting it pretty close.