San Rafael Hotels

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael is ideal for those who love nature, with scenic hiking trails and urban parks perfect for exploration.
• Charming Historic Downtown: Discover local shops and eateries in the picturesque historic district, showcasing the city's character.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage in lively festivals and events that reflect the vibrant community spirit of San Rafael.
• Convenient Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from charming hotels to inviting resorts, catering to all needs.
• Proximity to Attractions: Use San Rafael as a base to explore nearby beaches, national parks, and the stunning San Francisco Bay area.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming hotels to inviting resorts, catering to both business travellers and families. Whether you seek pet-friendly options or a convenient base to explore, the variety of hotel services ensures a comfortable stay. With numerous hotel reviews available, you'll easily find the perfect hotel room to match your needs in this picturesque Californian locale.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled 21km from San Rafael, Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is a vibrant 4-star hotel that captures the spirit of adventure and coastal charm. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it is ideal for travellers seeking a beach-themed getaway. The property boasts direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports, including nearby hiking and biking opportunities. Located in the bustling city centre, guests can easily explore the local attractions while enjoying the comfort of well-appointed accommodations and excellent on-site amenities.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Situated 23km from San Rafael, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travellers and urban explorers alike. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property offers a strategic location in the city centre, making it convenient for meetings and sightseeing. The hotel features modern rooms equipped with essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a productive and pleasant stay for those visiting for work or leisure.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Located 23km from San Rafael, Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is a distinguished 4-star accommodation that appeals to shopping enthusiasts and pet owners. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel allows pets on-site, offering amenities such as food and water bowls for dogs. Nestled in a vibrant shopping district, it provides easy access to retail therapy while ensuring a comfortable stay with its business-friendly facilities. This hotel combines convenience and comfort for a truly enjoyable experience.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

San Rafael, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for family-friendly vacations. Explore the charming historic downtown, where you can enjoy local shops and eateries. With excellent lodging options in Marin County and breathtaking views near San Francisco, San Rafael serves as a central location to discover the surrounding urban and scenic neighbourhoods. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this vibrant city promises an unforgettable travel experience.

• San Anselmo: Nestled a mere 3km from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, visitors flock here especially during the peak seasons of March to April and July. With its inviting recreational areas, shopping centre, and nearby nature reserves, San Anselmo is perfect for those seeking a refreshing escape. The local landmarks, including stunning beaches and national state parks, provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation amidst nature's splendour.
• Ross: Also located just 3km from San Rafael, Ross is a picturesque city that attracts families and adventure enthusiasts alike. With visitor numbers peaking from March and June to July, this area is ideal for those looking to indulge in outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Ross boasts excellent recreational areas and an array of shopping options, making it a convenient stop for both leisure and retail therapy. The proximity to historic places and national state parks adds a layer of cultural richness, inviting travellers to delve into the local heritage while enjoying the lush surroundings.
• Downtown San Rafael: Situated in the heart of San Rafael, Downtown San Rafael offers a vibrant and eco-friendly atmosphere that appeals to a diverse range of visitors. This neighbourhood experiences a surge in visitors from July to September, drawn by its engaging outdoor activities and lively public market. The area is home to various shopping centres and recreational spaces, perfect for leisurely strolls or family outings. With local attractions such as nature reserves and beautiful beaches nearby, Downtown San Rafael is an excellent base for exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Things to do near San Rafael

Shopping

In San Rafael, visit the Northgate Mall, which features a range of shops from fashion to electronics. If you're up for a drive, check out the Marin Country Mart, located 18km away, offering a chic selection of boutiques, dining options, and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Marinwood Community Center, where you can join yoga classes and relax in serene surroundings. Nearby, the China Camp State Park offers scenic trails for hiking and biking, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

At Sonoma Raceway, located 21km from San Rafael, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing amidst a vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Simraceway Performance Driving Center, 23km away, offers an exhilarating experience for driving enthusiasts, with opportunities to hone your skills on a professional track.

Nightlife

In San Rafael, the Marin Civic Centre hosts various events, including live music and performances. Nearby, the Marinwood Plaza offers laid-back bars for socialising. The local pubs and restaurants often feature live entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere to enjoy the evening.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

To save money during your visit to San Rafael, consider travelling in February or November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Sundays typically offer the best hotel rates, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Take advantage of free attractions like the Marin County Civic Center and Mount Tamalpais State Park. For transport, buses are a cost-effective option. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates and book packages that combine flights, hotels, and activities for great savings. Remember to filter results by price to find the best deals available.

• 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in San Rafael with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it perfect for a vacation. Visitors can explore urban parks, relax at nearby beaches, and venture into national and state parks. The area's attractions cater to those seeking a cultural experience as well as outdoor activities, providing a vibrant city atmosphere alongside natural wonders.

• Golden Gate Bridge: An iconic symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge offers stunning views and a chance to walk or cycle across its impressive span. The bridge stands as a testament to engineering prowess and provides a rich cultural context, making it a historic landmark not to be missed.
• Pier 39: A lively jetty filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, Pier 39 is perfect for soaking in the vibrant urban atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the bay and watch sea lions lounging on the docks, while friendly locals contribute to its welcoming vibe.
• Muir Woods National Monument: Explore the majestic redwoods in this serene forest, where hiking trails wind through towering trees. Muir Woods offers a refreshing outdoor adventure, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience the tranquillity of this remarkable ecosystem.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

Flying into San Rafael, California, can be conveniently done via three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 42km away, with notable hotels such as the Fairmont San Francisco, Palace Hotel, and The Ritz-Carlton, all within 19km and offering shuttle services. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is 114km away, featuring nearby options like DoubleTree by Hilton and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, both approximately 14km from the airport. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 85km away, with luxury accommodations such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible from the airport.