San Francisco Vs. Los Angeles: Comparing the United Club Lounges
When it comes to choosing between the United Club lounges at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), travellers are faced with a decision based on their preferences for ambiance, amenities, and overall experience. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the two United Club locations to help you make an informed choice for your next flight.
United Club LAX (Terminal 7) vs. United Club SFO (Terminal 3 Rotunda)
Access
Both lounges offer access to members, Visa holders, Star Gold members, and premium transcontinental pass holders. However, Polaris visitors are redirected to the Polaris lounge at SFO.
Seating Area
United Club LAX boasts a spacious 20,000 square feet (1,858 square meters) location, while United Club SFO covers approximately 15,000 square feet (1,394 square meters). Additionally, LAX features an outside terrace with tarmac views.
Buffet
While LAX provides a complete hot buffet including noodles, a pasta bar, and fresh eggs, SFO offers a cold buffet with select hot items.
Quiet Zones
LAX includes rear indoor seating pods, whereas SFO has marble-flooded alcoves near the lobby for a quieter atmosphere.
Operating Hours
United Club LAX operates from 6:30 to 22:30, while SFO’s hours vary by concourse but typically range from 5:00 to 12:00.
Terminal Location
LAX’s United Club is situated in Terminal 7, Concourse B, while SFO’s is located in Terminal 3 Rotunda.
Restoration Year
United Club LAX underwent growth in 2019, whereas SFO’s club was modernly redesigned in 2022.
Atmosphere
LAX offers a lively and busy atmosphere with wide-open spaces, while SFO provides a quieter, picturesque ambiance with ample natural light.
Best For
LAX is ideal for volume, connections, and availability, whereas SFO caters to long-haul travellers seeking a calm and efficient environment.
Disadvantages
LAX might be noisy with lines during peak hours, while SFO, being smaller, can fill up quickly.
Comparing with Other Lounges
Travellers often compare United Club experiences with other lounges such as Delta Sky Club at both LAX and SFO. While Delta may offer more curated cocktails, United’s lounges strike a balance between economy and luxury, although they may not always match Delta’s premium offerings.
Ultimately, the choice between SFO and LAX United Clubs depends on individual preferences. A traveller with a leisurely layover might appreciate SFO’s café-style ambiance, while a business passenger in a rush may prefer LAX’s spacious seating and quicker access to TSA and gates.
United Airlines has made significant investments in both locations, with LAX featuring an outdoor terrace and noodle bar, and SFO offering multiple concourse lounges anchored by the Rotunda.
Considering factors like alliance status or credit card benefits, Delta’s Sky Club could be a preferred choice for some, but loyal United Airlines customers can confidently opt for either SFO for tranquility or LAX for capacity.
