Find hotels in San Rafael, CA from CA $86

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael offers stunning scenery and a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including parks and beaches.
• Charming Downtown: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of downtown San Rafael, filled with art, friendly locals, and unique shops.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The city provides enriching cultural experiences and fun activities suitable for families.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a wide range of lodging options, from budget motels to luxurious hotels.
• Gateway to San Francisco: San Rafael serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby attractions of San Francisco.

Find great hotels in San Rafael

San Rafael boasts a diverse selection of accommodations, catering to every type of traveller, from budget-conscious visitors to those seeking luxury. With options ranging from 1 to 5 stars, you'll find everything from motels to upscale hotels. Whether you require business amenities, shopping proximity, or pet-friendly options, San Rafael's hospitality scene has you covered. Discover the best hotels in San Rafael for a memorable stay in this charming Californian city.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled 20.9km from San Rafael, Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is a vibrant 4-star destination ideal for travellers seeking a Beach, Adventure, and Eco-friendly experience. This eco-certified hotel is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand while minimizing their environmental footprint. Guests can enjoy direct beach access and partake in a variety of adventure sports such as hiking and biking nearby. With its lively atmosphere and commitment to sustainability, this hotel is a fantastic choice for eco-conscious adventurers.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Located 22.5km from San Rafael, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG offers a modern 3.5-star experience tailored for urban explorers and business travellers. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel provides essential amenities for professionals, including a 24-hour business centre, multiple meeting rooms, and ample conference space. Guests will appreciate the convenience of being close to San Francisco's attractions while enjoying comfortable accommodations that cater to their business needs.
• Hilton San Francisco Financial District: Just 22.5km from San Rafael, the Hilton San Francisco Financial District is a sophisticated 4-star hotel that welcomes families and business travellers alike. With its central location, the hotel features a variety of business amenities, including accessible meeting rooms and a 24-hour business centre. Families will feel at home with child-friendly services, including complimentary cribs. This hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and business-savvy amenities, making it an excellent choice for all types of visitors.

Where to stay in San Rafael

San Rafael, California, is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Nestled in the heart of Marin County, it serves as a gateway to San Francisco while offering charming downtown streets filled with art and friendly locals. Explore the scenic beauty of the region, enjoy a romantic getaway, or simply experience the vibrant atmosphere that makes San Rafael a perfect spot for a memorable vacation.

• Terra Linda: Nestled in the heart of San Rafael, Terra Linda is a charming neighbourhood that offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning natural scenery, visitors are drawn to the area's recreational facilities and scenic parks. Highlights include nearby national parks and nature reserves, perfect for hiking and exploring. The relatively stable visitor numbers throughout the year ensure a pleasant experience, with peaks during the summer months of June and August to September. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a peaceful day surrounded by nature, Terra Linda delivers a delightful travel experience.
• Country Club: Another gem in the San Rafael area, Country Club is a neighbourhood that seamlessly combines outdoor adventure with local culture. The community thrives from July to September, welcoming visitors eager to explore its recreational areas and educational venues. Highlights include access to state parks and beautiful beaches, ideal for a day of fun in the sun. The fairground showground offers unique local events, making it a lively spot for families and friends alike. Country Club is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in both nature and community spirit.
• Picnic Valley: Known for its picturesque views and outdoor activities, Picnic Valley is a delightful neighbourhood situated close to San Rafael. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in July to September. The local recreation park and trails provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the great outdoors. With attractions such as nearby beaches and national parks, Picnic Valley is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers. The blend of scenic beauty and recreational opportunities makes this neighbourhood a must-visit during your vacation.

Things to do in San Rafael

San Rafael is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can explore recreational areas, enjoy educational attractions, and even experience thrilling motor racing. This charming city is perfect for day trips and discovering hidden gems, making it a delightful spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in San Rafael, visit Marin Country Mart, just 3.2km away, offering a mix of family and entertainment vibes. The Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market is also nearby, perfect for local goods. Book Passage, a charming store, is only 4.8km away.

Recreation

Peacock Gap Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Sweetwater Music Hall hosts vibrant concerts, delivering an entertaining atmosphere for music lovers. For relaxation, McNears Beach Country Park provides a tranquil setting with scenic views and opportunities for unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Embark on the Tennessee Valley Trailhead for a scenic hike, immersing yourself in nature's beauty only 12.9km from San Rafael. Experience thrilling water sports at Boardsports Marin, located 11.3km away, or enjoy the outdoor vibes along Perimeter Road, situated 16.1km from the city.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Rafael by visiting the American Legion Log Cabin for a cozy drink or the Barn Theatre for a captivating show. For a thrilling night, head to the San Pablo Lytton Casino, where you can enjoy gaming and the lively atmosphere of the city.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

San Rafael offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like the Marin County Civic Center and Dominican University of California, while utilizing affordable public transport options such as buses. The best time to visit is during February or November to December, with Sundays being the cheapest days to stay. For great hotel deals, consider booking through Expedia, where you can combine flights and accommodations for added savings. Sorting by price can help you find budget-friendly options that suit your needs.

• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in San Rafael with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in San Rafael

San Rafael is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With a variety of attractions such as beaches, urban parks, and state parks, visitors can enjoy enriching cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Whether you're exploring nature or engaging with the local community, San Rafael offers a delightful mix of adventure and culture that will create lasting memories.

• Muir Woods National Monument: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of ancient coastal redwoods in this serene forest. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Muir Woods offers scenic trails and a peaceful escape just 9.7km from San Rafael.
• Golden Gate Bridge: Marvel at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a symbol of San Francisco's rich history and culture. Spanning 19.3km from San Rafael, this stunning engineering feat offers spectacular views and photo opportunities.
• Pier 39: Experience the lively atmosphere at Pier 39, located 20.9km away. This vibrant jetty features unique shops, waterfront dining, and sea lions basking in the sun, making it a delightful urban getaway with beautiful scenery and local art.

Best time to go to San Rafael

Visitor numbers in San Rafael is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. 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 (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

When visiting San Rafael, California, you have several airport options. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 41.8km away, with nearby hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19.3km from the airport, offering transfer and shuttle services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is slightly closer, at 40.2km away, with luxury options like The Claremont Resort & Club, located 16.1km from OAK. For those considering San Jose International Airport (SJC), it is 85.3km from San Rafael, with the Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto just 14.5km away, providing easy access to the airport.