Embarcadero YMCA

I wasn’t sure, 10 years ago, if I’d adapt well to this Y after the Central Y closed its pool. I worried that the vibe might be too aggressive, with harried Financial District and tech employees scrambling to get in a workout before their train/ferry/bus leaves. I was wrong: the swimmers are generally very easygoing yet respectful of appropriate lane speed and etiquette. The aspect of swimming with windows and daylight (the old Central Y pool was in a basement) was refreshing, and since you can look out one the frolicking dolphins sculpted on the Art Deco building across the street, you never feel alone in the pool. The hours are great - I can always get laps in, between 5:30 am and 9:45 pm: there’s always a few lanes open even when the swim team or lessons take one or two lanes.The lifeguards make it all work, though. They have a great way of keeping the area safe and positive, politely helping people of different abilities find the best lane, and keeping it all flowing so everyone gets what they want from a pool. Guards like Mike, Tom, Hailey, Sofia, Lise, Miguel, Juan, Emily, Nina, Kareem and Evan are only a few of the crew I know by name and face that manage the facility so well: Jimmy (and Mohammed and Colby before him) have overseen a great team.I swim so regularly now that it’s hard to imagine someone knowing the pool better than I do...and hard to imagine a facility that works as well for what I need as this one.

Super super super!!! I was visiting SF from the East Coast for a few weeks and decided to try this Y out since I am in the National System. Let me tell you this place is fantastic. Front desk and all instructors and students were all very welcoming. I wish I could continue here but I will definitely return when I am back in SF. Thank you everyone - see you again..

Excellent, staff and facilities. A full array of strength training equipment is particularly good as the Berkeley Y has just gotten rid of 75% of theirs. Oh and the view from the ellipticals/treadmills out over the Bay is sweet.

The staff at the Embarcadero YMCA is phenomenal. This is a great place to workout. If you have never been to one you can try it for free for a day at the SF YMCA locations, info is on their website. Also membership prices are very affordable and the benefits consist of much more than just gym facilities. Oh and its right next door to Google!

I took a number of Adult Swimming Lessons here levels 2-3. The instructors are great and really helped me get back on track to a decent standard of swimming. After the lessons I signed up to become a member. Definitely recommend the facilities here. I'm considering cancelling my 24 Hour Fitness membership as the Y has considerably better facilities than all the local 24 Hour Fitness locations.

You can't find a better gym in downtown for the money. I go to the spin classes which are as good as soulcycle and flywheel (more cycling focused which I like). They have a basketball court which attracted me at first but I don't really play anymore (trying to avoid injuries). The locker room is large, well organized and has a nice sauna and steam room. The weights can get crowded sometimes but they're expanding that area so I'm hopeful that will improve as well. The rest of the classes are top notch as well. While the Y isn't the fanciest gym, its definitely great and this location is the best of the bunch.

Visited this Y from my home branch in NC. Only got to use the pool one morning, but facility was impressive and the staff/ lifeguards were very welcoming and helpful. Will stop by again when back in San Fran!

Awesome Y community in a great location. Great gym, even greater services for families. Youth Chance High School also lives here and provides a High School diploma to those who can't attend a traditional High School.

Wonderful community, great workout room, and very conveniently timed exercise classes. I love the spinning and yoga classes at the Y, and the body positive "everyone is welcome" spirit of the place is wonderfully uplifting.

A gym with Bay views from the treadmills. Fully equipped with the latest gear but also with old school weights and machines. Plus there is a swimming pool, a hot tub and sauna. Wide selection of classes as well. Could be the best gym downtown.