San Rafael Hotels

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from exploring stunning beaches to hiking in national parks.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local traditions at annual festivals that highlight the region's rich culture.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of almond groves and picturesque parks, perfect for nature lovers.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The area caters to families with a variety of engaging and enjoyable pursuits.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Choose from a range of pet-friendly and business-oriented hotels for a delightful stay.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Experience the ideal blend of comfort and convenience in San Rafael, California, where a variety of hotel options await your arrival. From pet-friendly accommodations to business-focused amenities, the area has something for every traveller. Notable options include the AC Hotel San Rafael, featuring a welcoming atmosphere and modern facilities, ensuring a delightful stay in this charming region.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: A vibrant 4-star hotel nestled in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, this property offers an engaging blend of business and leisure amenities. Ideal for those seeking a city-themed vacation, it features multiple meeting rooms and a fully equipped business centre, making it perfect for corporate travellers. Guests can enjoy the convenience of being located in the bustling shopping district, with easy access to local attractions. The contemporary design and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay for both business and leisure visitors.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: This well-rated 3.5-star hotel is a prime choice for business-focused tourists. Located in the city centre, it boasts a 24-hour business centre and various meeting spaces, catering to the needs of professionals on the go. The hotel's modern amenities and comfortable rooms provide a relaxing retreat after a day of meetings or city exploration. With its strategic location, guests have easy access to San Francisco's vibrant culture and attractions, making it an excellent base for both work and play.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: A stylish 4-star accommodation that caters to both pet owners and city explorers, this hotel is ideally situated in a shopping district. Its pet-friendly policies, including amenities for dogs, allow you to travel with your furry friends without hassle. The hotel features modern, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of shopping or sightseeing. With its central location, guests can easily explore the rich offerings of San Francisco while enjoying the comforts of home.

Where to stay near San Rafael

San Rafael is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a vibrant blend of adventure and stunning scenery. Discover the enchanting almond groves and explore the alluring oasis of nearby parks. Don't miss the chance to experience the annual festival that showcases the local culture. With friendly locals and an inviting atmosphere, San Rafael promises a memorable vacation filled with adventure and breathtaking views.

• San Francisco: A vibrant metropolis located 24.1km from San Rafael, San Francisco is a must-visit for any traveller. Known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, the city offers a unique blend of family , outdoor , and city-themed experiences. The bustling shopping centres and diverse eateries cater to every taste, while the beautiful bay provides stunning views and recreational activities. Peak visitor seasons occur from June to August, making it a lively time to explore the city's culture and attractions.
• San Anselmo: Just 3.2km away from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming town perfect for those seeking outdoor , adventure , and scenery . The community is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and recreational areas, making it ideal for hiking and exploring nature. With peak visitor arrivals in March to April and July, the town comes alive with outdoor activities and local events. Nearby attractions include national parks and serene beaches, offering a delightful escape from the urban hustle.
• Ross: Also situated 3.2km from San Rafael, Ross is a quaint town known for its outdoor , adventure , and scenery experiences. This charming locale attracts visitors with its beautiful parks and historic sites, making it a great spot for leisurely strolls and exploration. Peak seasons in March and from June to July see visitors enjoying the local recreational areas and shopping centres. Nearby landmarks include national state parks and historic places, providing a rich backdrop for your adventures.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities, including exploring recreational areas and experiencing the excitement of motor racing. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the area also provides unique tours, such as the Acatenango tour, ensuring a memorable and exhilarating holiday experience.

Shopping

The Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market offers a vibrant public market experience right in San Rafael, perfect for local produce and crafts. For more retail options, Marin Country Mart is a lively shopping centre just 3.2km away, while Book Passage, a charming bookstore, is 4.8km from the heart of the city.

Recreation

At McNears Beach Country Park, enjoy the serene coastal environment, perfect for relaxation and leisurely walks. At Peacock Gap Golf Club, immerse yourself in outdoor sports while playing a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. Sweetwater Music Hall offers vibrant live music experiences for an entertaining evening.

Adventure

At Tennessee Valley Trailhead, embark on a scenic hike 12.9km from San Rafael, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The Dipsea Trailhead, located 8.0km away, invites adventurous trekkers to enjoy its outdoor charm. Boardsports Marin, 11.3km from the city, offers exhilarating water sports amidst stunning coastal views.

Nightlife

In San Rafael, the American Legion Log Cabin offers a charming pub atmosphere with entertainment and romance vibes. Just a stone's throw away, the Barn Theatre presents a cultural experience for families. For cinema lovers, Throckmorton Theatre provides engaging films in a romantic setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

San Rafael offers numerous ways to save on your visit. Enjoy free attractions like the Marin County Civic Center and Mount Tamalpais State Park. For budget-friendly travel, consider visiting in February or November to December, when accommodation prices drop. Sundays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels, and consider combining flight and hotel bookings for extra savings. Don't forget to look for eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Take advantage of advance prepayment deals for added discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Rafael are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in San Rafael with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both scenery and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, urban parks, and national state parks, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with exploration and enjoyment. Whether you're keen on nature or looking to immerse yourself in local culture, San Rafael has something to cater to every interest.

• Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views and a rich history. Stretching 2.7km across the Golden Gate Strait, the bridge is a marvel of engineering and a symbol of San Francisco's culture, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to stroll along its pedestrian walkway.
• Muir Woods National Monument: Immerse yourself in this serene coastal redwood forest, which boasts towering trees and serene trails. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Muir Woods offers a variety of hiking routes amid lush flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for adventure and tranquility.
• Pier 39: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling jetty, featuring shops, eateries, and stunning bay views. Home to playful sea lions, Pier 39 is a fantastic place to enjoy urban scenery, indulge in local cuisine, and mingle with friendly people.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Rafael falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in San Rafael falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.9°F (12.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Rafael

San Rafael, California, is conveniently accessible via three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 41.8km away, with excellent hotel options like the Fairmont San Francisco and the Palace Hotel, both 19.3km from SFO, offering transfer services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is only 40.2km from San Rafael, with nearby luxury accommodations like 1 Hotel San Francisco and Claremont Resort & Club, both around 16.1km from OAK. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is located 85.3km away, with top options like Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both under 16.1km from SJC, ensuring easy access for travellers.