San Rafael Holidays from £1,065

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Your San Rafael Holiday

Book a San Rafael holiday package and focus on what counts — enjoying yourself. This means no more planning nightmares, just lots more time to discover the delights of this awesome city, such as its laid-back lifestyle and spectacular views. Make your trip to San Rafael even more enjoyable by going sightseeing. Muir Woods National Monument, Marin County Civic Centre and Dominican University of California are among the most popular attractions worth exploring. Expedia has what you need to escape the everyday. Tailor your holiday to San Rafael to suit your travel style, whatever that may be!

Top San Rafael Flight + Hotel Deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Marker Union Square San Francisco

The Marker Union Square San Francisco

Union Square
£1,065
per person
23 Oct - 30 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Birmingham (BHX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,518 reviews)
Ok though overrated. Neighborhood is not the best as you’re on the edge of the tenderloin with many homeless. Staff were nice and room was ok.

Reviewed on 4 Sept 2026

Stanyan Park Hotel

Stanyan Park Hotel

Golden Gate
Save 100% on your flight
£1,553
per person
23 Oct - 30 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Birmingham (BHX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,013 reviews)
Clean room, friendly staff, good breakfast selection.

Reviewed on 4 Sept 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf
£1,247
per person
24 Oct - 31 Oct
found 6 hours ago
Return direct flight included
Birmingham (BHX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9/10 Wonderful! (7,670 reviews)
All the employees were very nice. Breakfast was good. Clean but could use a bar of soap in the bathroom and no literature about the hotel or the wharf. Had a great visit.

Reviewed on 4 Sept 2026

Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square

Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square

Fisherman's Wharf
Save 100% on your flight
£2,945
per person
23 Oct - 30 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Birmingham (BHX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (414 reviews)
Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel

Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel

Union Square
Save 100% on your flight
£1,098
per person
22 Oct - 29 Oct
found 1 hour ago
Return flight included
London (LON) to San Francisco (SFO)
9/10 Wonderful! (2,200 reviews)

Where to stay in San Rafael

Find the best San Rafael areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Rafael
An aerial view of a city with a mix of modern and historic buildings, a prominent clock tower, and a hilly backdrop.

Downtown San Rafael

3 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While visiting Downtown San Rafael, you might make a stop by sights like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin History Museum.

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Southeast San Rafael

While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart.

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Dominican

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While Dominican isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

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Rolling green hills with a mountain range in the background.

Terra Linda

Terra Linda might not have many top sights, but American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

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A mountain range with a sunset sky.

Gerstle Park

While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

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Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for your holiday. Explore its vibrant recreational areas, engage in educational activities, and indulge in shopping at local centres. Whether you're seeking exotic tours, trips to Santiago, or memorable day tours, San Rafael promises a range of experiences that cater to every traveler's interests.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in San Rafael, visit the Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market for local goods. Marin Country Mart, only 3.2km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops and entertainment. Book Passage, a charming bookstore, is just 4.8km from San Rafael.

Recreation

Relax at McNears Beach Country Park, where you can enjoy serene coastal views and unwind amidst nature. Challenge yourself at Peacock Gap Golf Club, a picturesque golf course perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For evening entertainment, catch a live performance at Sweetwater Music Hall, just 8.0km away.

Adventure

Embark on the Tennessee Valley Trailhead, an 12.9km hike through stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Alternatively, the Dipsea Trailhead, 8.0km away, offers exhilarating access to nature, while Boardsports Marin, 11.3km distant, provides thrilling water sports experiences amidst an adventurous outdoor setting.

Nightlife

Experience San Rafael's nightlife starting at the American Legion Log Cabin, a charming drinking pub with a romantic ambiance just 3.2km away. For a vibrant night, visit the Phoenix Theater nightclub, 30.6km out, or enjoy the lively atmosphere at the Oakland Tribune Tower pub, 29.0km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael, located in California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore scenic beaches, urban parks, and nearby state parks, offering cultural and family-friendly experiences. Notable attractions include Sao Rafael Beach, San Rafael Beach, and the San Rafael Glacier, providing ample opportunities for memorable excursions in this picturesque region.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic historic bridge, located 19.3km from San Rafael, offers stunning views and a rich cultural vibe. Walk or cycle across to fully appreciate its architectural marvel and the breathtaking San Francisco Bay.
  • Muir Woods National Monument: Just 9.7km away, this enchanting forest invites you to explore its towering redwoods and lush surroundings. Perfect for outdoor adventures, it provides a serene escape into nature’s beauty.
  • Pier 39: Situated 20.9km from San Rafael, this vibrant jetty is bustling with shops, eateries, and entertainment. Enjoy the scenic waterfront and friendly atmosphere while watching sea lions basking 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. The coolest average temperature in San Rafael falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.9°F (12.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May57.6°F (14.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June61.3°F (16.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to San Rafael

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to San Rafael.
  • Consider traveling to San Rafael during the low season (February and November to December) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

San Rafael Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
U.S dollars
Closest Airport
San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO)
Population
59,200
Max Temp Winter
13ºC
Max Temp Summer
21ºC
Top Sights
Stinson Beach, Bolinas Beach and Mount Tamalpais State Park

Top hotels in San Rafael

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

1500 Van Ness Ave San Francisco CA
£129
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

2500 Mason St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£153
8 Sept - 9 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (7,656 reviews)
"All the employees were very nice. Breakfast was good. Clean but could use a bar of soap in the bathroom and no literature about the hotel or the wharf. Had a great visit."

Reviewed on 4 Sept 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Hilton San Francisco Union Square

Hilton San Francisco Union Square

333 O'Farrell St. San Francisco CA
£145
3 Oct - 4 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
See all 4,385 properties in San Rafael
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular San Rafael attractions

A statue of a man holding a staff in a garden with a white building in the background.

Mission San Rafael Arcangel

9.0/10 (73 reviews)
Established in 1817, Mission San Rafael Arcángel was California's first mission built as a hospital for Native Americans. Visitors can explore the replica chapel, museum artefacts, and peaceful mission gardens.
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A wooden pier extending into calm water, with a rusted metal structure on the right.
Photo by Vijay Narasimhan

China Camp State Park

9.0/10 (40 reviews)
This former Chinese shrimp-fishing village preserves California's maritime heritage. Hike scenic trails with San Pablo Bay views, then explore the museum chronicling 19th-century Chinese-American fishermen's lives.
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Dominican University of California

8.8/10 (56 reviews)
This historic university campus dating back to 1850 features ivy-covered Edgehill Mansion and serene gardens. Stroll through the picturesque grounds and admire the blend of heritage architecture and tranquil open spaces.
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Peacock Gap Golf Club

8.4/10 (20 reviews)
This championship-level course offers meticulously maintained fairways against Marin County's scenic backdrop. Perfect your swing at the all-grass driving range before enjoying locally sourced dishes at the RangeCafe.
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McNears Beach Country Park

9.0/10 (32 reviews)
This 55-acre bayside sanctuary offers expansive San Pablo Bay views from its fishing pier and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the seasonal pool, kayaking in sheltered waters, or playing tennis.
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Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market

9.2/10 (22 reviews)
One of California's largest farmers' markets features 150+ vendors beneath the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Civic Centre. Savour artisanal cheeses and organic produce while enjoying live music on Sundays.
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Falkirk Cultural Center

8.2/10 (13 reviews)
This Victorian mansion showcases intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and period furnishings amid an 11-acre estate. Explore rotating art exhibitions or stroll through the sculpture garden and restored greenhouse.
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San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park

9.8/10 (7 reviews)
Albert Park offers an intimate baseball experience as the historic home of the San Rafael Pacifics. Enjoy close-up views, traditional ballpark fare, and themed promotional nights during the May-July season.
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What to do in San Rafael

Alcatraz Island in San Francisco

Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island

£110
per adult
Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

£92
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Combo image of Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz

Visit Alcatraz + Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour (2-Day)

£106
per traveller
96% of travellers recommend
Visit Alcatraz + Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour (2-Day)
See all activities in San Rafael

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my San Rafael holiday with Expedia?
Expedia has you covered for every detail of your upcoming San Rafael trip. You'll always land the best prices around, but when you bundle your hotel, flights and/or hire car into a holiday package, you'll get even more savings. Keen to really make the most of your escape? Add some tours and activities to your customised package. We offer flexible cancellation policies on most bookings, so there's no need to worry if your plans change. Head over to our Customer Service Portal link to learn more.
When is the best time of year to holiday in San Rafael?
To enjoy the atmosphere of peak season, take off in February, March and November. January, July and December are generally quieter and a smart idea if you'd rather escape the crowds. Organise your visit to San Rafael according to what style of holiday you want. January is the coolest time of year, when daytime temperatures average 10ºC. In August, the warmest period, you'll experience temperatures of around 17ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in San Rafael?
If you're planning to stay in the Santa Venetia neighbourhood, North Bay Inn and SureStay Hotel by Best Western San Rafael are fabulous options. Terra Linda is another popular San Rafael area. We recommend Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael Marin County or Villa Inn if you choose this end of town.
How do I get a cheap holiday to San Rafael?
If you love landing a bargain, combine your bookings into a San Rafael holiday. Whether you need hotels, flights, activities or hire cars, you can browse and book them all in one place. You'll have loads of choice at your fingertips as well. Expedia has more than 400 partner airlines and 321,000 hotels throughout the world to pick from. Fly with who you prefer, stay in a place you like and save a bundle — now that's the ideal holiday! Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you combine your hotel and flight bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my San Rafael holiday?
Offering popular attractions like Muir Woods National Monument and Marin County Civic Centre, a holiday in San Rafael promises lots of fun things to see and do. Dominican University of California and Stinson Beach are a couple of other sights also worth exploring.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in San Rafael?
A holiday in San Rafael isn't complete without visiting Marin County Civic Centre. Why not stay close to this popular tourist attraction?
Do I need a visa for my San Rafael holiday?
Check the latest rules on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for leisure, business or study will determine if you need a visa for San Rafael. Make yourself familiar with the application process, including the required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Finalise your application well in advance to allow plenty of time for processing. Some visas can take weeks or even months to go through, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my San Rafael holiday?
Though everyone's fashion style differs, it can be useful to have a few guidelines for what to wear on your holiday in San Rafael. Think about searching style blogs before leaving for inspiration on fashion trends or dress codes. Daytime temperatures during January, San Rafael's coolest month, are around 10ºC. August marks this destination's warmest month when the average daily temperature reaches 17ºC. Our advice? Take the guesswork out of what to pack and check the local weather conditions.
What does an Expedia San Rafael holiday include?
That's up to you. Simply choose from a range of San Rafael packages, such as a hire car, hotel and flight. You can also book a flight and a hotel, or a car hire with a flight. Once you've made your booking, add the fun stuff like tours and activities. Whatever your perfect San Rafael holiday looks like, get ready to save! Explore a wide range of property types and choose one that matches your group size and travel needs. The most popular holiday rentals here are private holiday homes and apartments. With Expedia, it's easy to customise your San Rafael escape just the way you like.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later San Rafael holidays?
Your bank balance shouldn't prevent you from escaping on holiday, so Expedia has worked out a solution to help. Now that we've partnered with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book an incredible getaway without hurting your hip pocket. Klarna offers flexible payment options during the checkout process that take the stress out of budgeting for your trip. Consider one of these flexible payment options:
  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers the ability to pay in multiple instalments that work for all budgets, so you can take that well-deserved holiday now.
  • No-deposit holidays: Pressing the "book now" button is much easier with this option. With no upfront fee for your holiday, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start working on your travel itinerary.
Can I choose my airline with a San Rafael Expedia holiday?
Yes — and it's simple too. Expedia has access to more than 400 partner airlines throughout the world. Our packages give you the flexibility to pick from available flights, hotels and activities that suit you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.