Find hotels in San Rafael, CA from ￥13,266

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael offers stunning scenery with recreational areas, scenic hiking trails, and access to nearby national parks, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Charming Downtown: Explore the historic downtown area, which features vibrant shops, restaurants, and a lively urban atmosphere.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The city provides a variety of family-oriented experiences, ensuring enjoyable outings for visitors of all ages.
• Convenient Accommodation: San Rafael boasts excellent lodging options, catering to business travelers, families, and pet owners alike.
• Proximity to San Francisco: Enjoy breathtaking views and easy access to the attractions of nearby San Francisco.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Discover the perfect accommodation in San Rafael, California, where a variety of hotels and resorts cater to every traveler's needs. Whether you're on a business trip, enjoying a family vacation, or traveling with pets, you’ll find excellent services and amenities to enhance your stay. Explore top-rated hotels in San Rafael, read guest reviews, and choose from comfortable hotel rooms designed for relaxation and convenience.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled 21km from San Rafael, Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is a 4-star haven for eco-conscious travelers seeking adventure by the beach. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel is eco-certified and provides direct beach access, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The property offers various adventure sports and recreational options nearby, including bicycle rentals and hiking trails. Experience a blend of relaxation and excitement at this vibrant coastal retreat.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Located 23km from San Rafael, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a 3.5-star property that caters to business travelers and city explorers alike, boasting a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Set in the heart of the city, this hotel provides easy access to San Francisco's bustling urban landscape. With modern amenities and a professional atmosphere, it's an excellent choice for business visits, while also allowing guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Situated 23km from San Rafael, Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is a 4-star accommodation that welcomes both business and pet-owning travelers with open arms. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel features pet-friendly policies, including amenities for dogs. Located in the shopping district, guests can enjoy convenient access to a variety of retail options while benefiting from a comfortable stay tailored to meet the needs of both leisure and business visitors.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

San Rafael, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for tourists seeking a family-friendly atmosphere. Explore the historic downtown area and enjoy the vibrant urban vibe, while also taking in stunning views near San Francisco. With excellent lodging options in Marin and a central location, San Rafael serves as a fantastic base for your vacation, allowing you to experience the charm of nearby neighborhoods and the warmth of friendly locals.

• San Anselmo: Nestled only 3km from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming city known for its serene outdoor spaces and stunning scenery. Visitors flock here year-round, especially in the spring and summer months, to enjoy activities like hiking in nearby nature reserves and exploring the local shopping mall. The area is perfect for those seeking adventure, with attractions like beautiful beaches and national parks just a stone's throw away, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Ross: Also situated 3km from San Rafael, Ross is a picturesque city that captures the essence of family-friendly experiences. With its peak visitor season occurring in the summer, families can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including trips to nearby historic sites and beaches. Ross boasts an array of shopping centers that are perfect for leisurely strolls and boutique shopping. Its close proximity to national parks adds to the allure, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.
• Terra Linda: Located in the vicinity of San Rafael, Terra Linda is a vibrant neighborhood ideal for family outings and business gatherings. The area experiences consistent visitor traffic, with summer months being particularly popular. Terra Linda offers recreational areas and a lively public market where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture. The neighborhood is also near modern civic buildings and beautiful beaches, along with national parks that highlight the region's natural beauty, making it a great spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Things to do near San Rafael

Shopping

In San Rafael, visit the Northgate Mall, featuring a variety of shops and eateries for your gift and souvenir needs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Marinwood Plaza, located about 18km away, offering unique local boutiques and specialty stores.

Recreation

The Marinwood Community Center offers yoga classes and wellness workshops, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. For outdoor activities, explore China Camp State Park with its scenic trails and tranquil bay views, ideal for hiking and picnicking in nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Sonoma Raceway, located 21km from San Rafael, where you can enjoy high-speed events and adrenaline-pumping activities. Alternatively, head to Simraceway Performance Driving Center, 23km away, for a chance to hone your driving skills on a professional track.

Nightlife

Visit The Marinwood Community Center for lively events and gatherings. Check out the Marin Brewing Company for a selection of local craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere. For a unique experience, head to the Marin Civic Center for occasional concerts and cultural events that highlight local talent.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and diverse attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, beautiful beaches, and nearby national state parks. The area caters to those interested in culture and city experiences, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to enjoy the great outdoors while immersing themselves in local charm.

• Golden Gate Bridge: Experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, an engineering marvel located 18km from San Rafael. Walk or bike across this historic bridge to enjoy breathtaking views of the bay, the city skyline, and the surrounding landscape, all while soaking in its cultural significance.
• Pier 39: Visit Pier 39, a lively jetty located 21km from San Rafael. This urban waterfront destination offers stunning bay views, unique shops, and delicious dining options. Enjoy watching sea lions basking in the sun while mingling with friendly locals and fellow tourists.
• Muir Woods National Monument: Explore Muir Woods National Monument, a serene forest located 10km away. Wander through towering redwoods and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, enjoying the adventure of hiking along well-marked trails in a tranquil outdoor setting.

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

Traveling to San Rafael, California, is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 42km away, with luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both offering shuttle services to the airport. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is 114km from San Rafael, with options like DoubleTree by Hilton and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, easily accessible for airport transfers. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 85km away, with upscale accommodations such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott providing nearby airport access. Each airport ensures a smooth start to your vacation.