Search San Rafael hotels

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Stunning Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and a variety of recreational activities.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a range of family-friendly experiences, from urban parks to exciting rafting excursions.
• Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Explore the lively neighbourhoods of Marin County, perfect for soaking up the local vibe.
• Proximity to San Francisco: Just a short drive away, experience the urban charm and iconic sights of San Francisco.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Find a range of comfortable stays, from pet-friendly retreats to business venues.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Discover a variety of hotel accommodation options in San Rafael, California, perfectly suited for every traveller. From pet-friendly retreats to business-focused venues, you'll find the ideal spot for your stay. Whether you seek a relaxing resort or a top-rated hotel near shopping and local attractions, San Rafael offers the best of both worlds. Enjoy a memorable vacation experience with welcoming hospitality and convenient amenities tailored to your needs.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled 20.9km from San Rafael, Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf offers a unique blend of eco-friendliness and business amenities, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious travellers. With its LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere, this 4-star hotel is perfect for those seeking a welcoming environment. Business guests can take advantage of multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre, all while enjoying the hotel's eco-certified facilities. The vibrant Fisherman's Wharf location provides easy access to San Francisco's iconic attractions, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Located 22.5km from San Rafael, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a stylish 3.5-star hotel that caters to both business and leisure travellers. With a focus on city-themed experiences, this LGBTQIA-friendly property is situated in the heart of the city, offering easy access to local attractions. Business amenities include a 24-hour business centre, multiple meeting rooms, and conference space, making it an excellent choice for corporate travellers. Guests can enjoy the hotel's modern comforts while exploring the vibrant surroundings.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Also 22.5km from San Rafael, Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is a sophisticated 4-star lodging option that combines business efficiency with an LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere. Perfectly positioned in the city centre, this hotel is ideal for those looking to experience the bustling urban lifestyle. With accessible business amenities such as multiple meeting rooms, a business centre, and conference space, it caters to the needs of business travellers. The hotel's chic decor and attentive service create a welcoming environment for all guests.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore the scenic beauty of Marin County, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant neighbourhoods. Just a short drive away, San Francisco beckons with its urban charm. Whether you're seeking comfortable accommodation in downtown San Rafael or exploring nearby attractions, this area promises memorable experiences for every traveller.

• 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 buzzes with activity year-round. The peak tourist season runs from July to September, when visitors flock for family outings, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. With an array of shopping centres, cultural venues, and sports facilities, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf or enjoy a cable car ride through its famous hills.
• San Anselmo: Just 3.2km from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming city that enchants visitors with its quaint streets and stunning scenery. This area sees a steady influx of tourists, particularly in March to April and July. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a paradise here, with access to national parks and beautiful beaches. The local recreational areas and shopping options make it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out. Whether you prefer hiking through lush trails or exploring local shops, San Anselmo offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation.
• Terra Linda: Nestled in the vicinity of San Rafael, Terra Linda is a welcoming neighbourhood ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences and natural beauty. The area witnesses increased visitor numbers in June and August to September. Known for its recreational areas and arts centres, Terra Linda is perfect for families and adventurers alike. With nearby national parks and nature reserves, you can immerse yourself in the stunning Californian landscape. Enjoy a day at the beach, or take in the scenic views while exploring the local trails. Terra Linda is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael is perfect for an outdoor adventure, offering stunning scenery and a range of activities. Enjoy recreational areas, engage in educational experiences, and indulge in thrilling motor racing. Don't miss out on fun spots and exciting rafting excursions that promise to make your visit memorable. Whether you're after relaxation or adventure, San Rafael has something for every traveller.

Shopping

For a local shopping experience, visit the Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market for fresh produce and unique finds. If you're up for a drive, Hilltop Mall offers a variety of shops and entertainment options, while Chestnut Street provides a vibrant atmosphere with more shopping opportunities.

Recreation

Sweetwater Music Hall offers an engaging atmosphere with live performances that uplift the spirit, located 8.0km from San Rafael. For a more active experience, the Presidio Golf Course features stunning outdoor views and challenging holes, situated 20.9km away. Enjoy the vibrant entertainment at SF Masonic Auditorium, 22.5km from San Rafael.

Adventure

At Tennessee Valley Trailhead, hike through stunning landscapes just 12.9km from San Rafael, immersing yourself in nature's beauty. Boardsports Marin offers thrilling water sports experiences 11.3km away, perfect for adrenaline junkies. Explore Perimeter Road, located 16.1km from town, for a fantastic outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Rafael! Enjoy a show at Club Fugazi, only 22.5km away, or unwind at the American Legion Log Cabin, just 3.2km from town. For a family-friendly movie night, check out Throckmorton Theater, located 8.0km away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

San Rafael is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free activities like visiting the Marin County Civic Center and Mount Tamalpais State Park. For transport, consider using the bus for affordable travel. To save on accommodation, visit in February or from November to December, with Sundays being the cheapest night to stay. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates, and look for eco-friendly options for better deals. Bundling your hotel with flights and activities can also lead to significant savings. Keep an eye out for instant savings and special offers while planning your trip!

• 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, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your San Rafael hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael offers a fantastic getaway for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With a variety of attractions such as beaches, urban parks, and national/state parks, visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and family-friendly experiences. Whether you’re keen on exploring nature or soaking up the local vibe, San Rafael has something for every kind of traveller.

• Muir Woods National Monument: Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of towering redwoods and lush greenery just 9.7km from San Rafael. Enjoy hiking trails that offer a sense of adventure amidst nature, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
• Golden Gate Bridge: Experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, located 19.3km away. This historic landmark not only showcases stunning engineering but also offers rich cultural vibes. Enjoy panoramic views and learn about its fascinating history.
• Pier 39: Visit Pier 39, a lively jetty 20.9km from San Rafael, where urban charm meets scenic waterfront views. Explore shops, restaurants, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere while watching playful sea lions bask in the sun.

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 (dry). 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 (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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

To reach San Rafael, California, you can fly into three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 41.8km away, with luxurious hotel options like the Palace Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont, all about 19.3km from the airport, offering shuttle services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 40.2km from San Rafael, with nearby hotels such as Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, both approximately 10 to 17.7km away. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 85.3km away, featuring hotels like Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both within 3 to 14.5km from the airport.