Find hotels in San Rafael, CA from £58

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a variety of recreational activities.
• Charming Downtown: Explore the lovely downtown area, dotted with family-friendly attractions and vibrant local culture.
• Scenic National Parks: Discover breathtaking national parks nearby, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
• Diverse Accommodation: A wide range of hotels and resorts cater to all preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience the friendly vibe created by locals, making your visit even more enjoyable.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, catering to every traveller's needs. From pet-friendly hotels to resorts designed for business professionals, you'll discover a range of choices to enhance your stay. Whether you're seeking holiday rentals or traditional hotel stays, San Rafael provides a variety of options for a memorable shopping or leisure experience. Explore the charm of this Californian gem while enjoying all the comforts of home.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Embrace the vibrant city vibe at Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf, a 4-star eco-certified hotel located 8.1km from San Rafael. This accommodation is perfect for adventurous travellers seeking an eco-friendly experience. Guests can indulge in various outdoor activities such as nearby bicycle rentals and hiking trails, making it ideal for those who love the great outdoors. With its prime city centre location, visitors can easily explore the iconic sights of San Francisco while enjoying modern amenities that prioritise sustainability.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: The Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG offers a professional atmosphere with a welcoming flair for the LGBTQIA community. Situated 8.7km from San Rafael, this 3.5-star hotel caters to business travellers with its multiple meeting rooms, 24-hour business centre, and conference space. With a commitment to inclusivity and comfort, guests can enjoy a seamless blend of work and leisure, making it a perfect choice for those on business trips or seeking a supportive environment for their travels.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Located 8.7km from San Rafael, Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is a stylish 4-star accommodation that combines business efficiency with a vibrant urban atmosphere. This hotel is LGBTQIA welcoming and offers an array of business amenities including accessible meeting rooms and a dedicated business centre. Its central location allows guests to easily access the bustling city while enjoying the comfort and convenience of modern facilities, making it an excellent option for both business and leisure travellers.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

San Rafael, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for family-friendly holidays. Explore picturesque parks and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of nearby urban areas. Discover the charm of surrounding neighbourhoods where friendly locals and breathtaking landscapes await. Whether you’re hiking in Marin County or indulging in local culture, San Rafael promises a memorable getaway filled with diverse experiences and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

• San Francisco: A vibrant metropolis located 9.3km from San Rafael, San Francisco offers a dynamic urban experience that attracts visitors year-round. Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, the city is a hub for family outings, outdoor adventures, and cultural exploration. The peak tourist season runs from July to September, where one can indulge in shopping at famous centres, enjoy diverse cuisine, and take in stunning bay views. Whether strolling through Fisherman’s Wharf or visiting one of the many museums, San Francisco provides an unforgettable blend of city life and scenic beauty.
• San Anselmo: Nestled just 1.2km from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming town that captivates visitors with its picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures. With peak visitor numbers in March to April and July, this area is perfect for those seeking an active getaway, offering access to recreational areas, scenic parks, and delightful shopping. Highlights include the nearby national parks and serene beaches, making it ideal for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature. The quaint town centre adds to the allure, boasting unique shops and local eateries.
• Terra Linda: Situated within the San Rafael area, Terra Linda is a delightful neighbourhood known for its outdoor activities and natural beauty. Visitor numbers peak in June and August, attracting those keen on adventure and exploration. The area features numerous recreational spaces, arts centres, and educational venues. Nearby attractions include stunning beaches, nature reserves, and national parks, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and relaxing in nature. Terra Linda offers a perfect blend of community charm and access to breathtaking landscapes.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities set against stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, engage in educational experiences, or even indulge in motor racing. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions, San Rafael promises an adventurous holiday for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Shopping

For delightful shopping experiences in San Rafael, visit Book Passage, just 1.9km away for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Chestnut Street offers a vibrant shopping mall atmosphere, located 11.9km away, perfect for entertainment and family vibes. Don't miss the Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market for local treats!

Recreation

At Golden Gate National Recreation Area, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility with scenic trails and serene vistas. Nevin Community Center offers a range of wellness classes in a welcoming environment, while McNears Beach Country Park invites relaxation by the waterfront, perfect for a peaceful day out.

Adventure

The Tennessee Valley Trailhead offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, located 5.0km from San Rafael. For water sports, visit Boardsports Marin, 4.3km away, where adventure awaits on the water. Perimeter Road, located 6.2km from San Rafael, provides a great outdoor experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Rafael by visiting the American Legion Log Cabin for a cosy drink and romantic atmosphere. For family-friendly entertainment, catch a show at the nearby Throckmorton Theater or venture to the America's Cup Pavilion for a cultural night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

San Rafael provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free access to attractions like the Marin County Civic Center and Mount Tamalpais State Park. For transport, consider using the bus system, which is more economical than driving. To save on accommodation, visit during February or from November to December, avoiding the pricier summer months. Sundays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare room rates, filter for eco-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel with flights for additional savings.

• 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 preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You have the opportunity to save money 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 delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for tourists. Explore the scenic beaches, vibrant urban parks, and nearby national and state parks. The local attractions cater to families and those seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Sao Rafael Beach for a relaxing day by the sea.

• Muir Woods National Monument: Experience the majestic beauty of ancient coastal redwoods in this serene forest. Just 3.7km from San Rafael, Muir Woods offers scenic trails where you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the fresh air, and spot local wildlife.
• Golden Gate Bridge: A mere 7.5km away, this iconic bridge is a marvel of engineering and a symbol of San Francisco's rich history. Stroll across its impressive span while taking in stunning views of the bay and the city skyline, embracing the vibrant culture surrounding this landmark.
• Pier 39: Located 8.1km from San Rafael, Pier 39 is a lively waterfront destination. Enjoy the urban atmosphere, watch sea lions lounging on the docks, and explore various shops and eateries, all while soaking in picturesque views of the bay.

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	Slightly High
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	Average
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, is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 16.2km away, with notable hotels such as the Palace Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont San Francisco, all offering transfer services. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 15.5km from San Rafael, with excellent accommodation options like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, both providing access to the airport. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 32.9km away, with luxury hotels like Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott nearby, ensuring easy transportation to the airport.