United Polaris Lounge

San Francisco International Airport (SFO), International Terminal, near Gate Gate G96

Hours of Operation

Days	Open	Close
Daily	6:00 AM	11:30 PM

Walking Directions

After clearing security in the International Terminal, head toward Concourse G. The Polaris Lounge is located near Gate G96 on the upper level. Follow signs for the United Polaris Lounge. The entrance features the distinctive Polaris star logo with a dark, elegant facade.

Access Methods

Method	Type	Details
United Polaris Business Class	Free Access	Complimentary for passengers flying United Polaris (international business class)
United Global First	Free Access	Complimentary for United international first class passengers
Star Alliance Business/First on United flights	Free Access	Access for Star Alliance premium cabin passengers connecting on United international flights

Amenities

Wi-FiAvailable

ShowersAvailable

FoodAvailable

DrinksAvailable

Power OutletsAvailable

Sleeping AreasAvailable

PrintersAvailable

TVUnavailable

Food and Drinks

Food

Full sit-down restaurant with a la carte menu featuring California farm-to-table cuisine

Drinks

Premium bar with Napa Valley wines, craft cocktails, and California craft beers from Modern Times and Anchor Steam

Signature Items

Pan-seared Pacific salmon with seasonal vegetables
California avocado and citrus salad
House-made desserts with local ingredients

Guest Policy

Guests allowed: 1

Cost per guest: Free for one guest

One guest with a same-day boarding pass may enter. Specific policies vary by booking class and route.

Crowding Information

Peak Hours

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Best Times to Visit

Early morning between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, before the bulk of international departures

Workspace

Power Outlets

Every seat, daybed, and workspace has dedicated USB-C and AC power

Desk Areas

Yes

Quiet Zones

Yes

Private work pods and quiet zones designed for pre-flight productivity. The tech traveler crowd uses these extensively.

Showers

Showers are available. Booking is required in advance.

Premium shower suites with Cowshed products, heated floors, and rainfall showerheads. Sign up at the front desk.

The Good

Full a la carte restaurant rivals upscale San Francisco dining with California farm-to-table dishes
Daybeds with privacy curtains are perfect for resting before a long trans-Pacific flight
Premium shower suites with heated floors and luxury toiletries feel like a boutique hotel
Calm, sophisticated atmosphere designed for relaxation rather than networking

The Bad

Exclusively for Polaris business class or higher passengers, no credit card or membership access
Restaurant can have a 15 to 20 minute wait during peak departure times
Long walk from the security checkpoint to the lounge entrance

Pro Tips

Arrive at least 2.5 hours before your flight to fully enjoy the restaurant, shower, and daybeds. This lounge deserves your time.
Order from the a la carte menu rather than grabbing from the buffet. The Pacific salmon and seasonal fish dishes use California ingredients and are exceptional.
The daybeds with privacy curtains are first-come. If you need rest before an overnight flight to Asia, head straight to the sleeping area on arrival.
Ask about the California wine flight. They pour selections from small Napa and Sonoma producers that are not available at most bars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I access the Polaris Lounge with a United Club membership?

No. The United Polaris Lounge is exclusively for passengers traveling in United Polaris (international business class) or international first class on United or Star Alliance partner flights. United Club membership does not grant access.

Does this lounge have sleeping areas?

Yes. There are daybeds with privacy curtains and blankets available on a first-come basis. They are ideal for resting before long trans-Pacific flights.

Is this connected to Terminal 1?

Yes. The International Terminal connects airside to Terminal 1. If you are arriving domestically in Terminal 1 and connecting to a Polaris flight, you can walk to the International Terminal without re-clearing security.