Find hotels in San Rafael, CA from $83

These San Rafael insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 13, 2026.

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Outdoor Adventures: San Rafael offers stunning parks and access to nearby beaches, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
• Cultural Vibe: Explore vibrant streets filled with local shops, cafes, and cultural attractions that reflect the city's unique character.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The city is packed with engaging attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Convenient Location: Just minutes from San Francisco, it's an ideal base for exploring the Bay Area.
• Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to family resorts, catering to all needs.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Welcome to San Rafael, California, where you'll find a variety of hotel accommodations to suit your needs. Whether you're searching for pet-friendly options, family-friendly resorts, or budget-friendly hotels, San Rafael offers an array of choices. Explore the best hotels for business travelers or enjoy a relaxing getaway in this vibrant community, all while experiencing the unique charm and hospitality that San Rafael has to offer.

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf is a vibrant 4-star hotel boasting a guest rating of 9.0. Located 13 miles from San Rafael, this property is ideal for travelers seeking a beach and adventure-themed getaway. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in various adventure sports and recreational activities, including nearby bicycle rentals and hiking trails. The hotel’s central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the lively Fisherman’s Wharf area, filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a well-appointed 3.5-star hotel, also with a guest rating of 9.0, located 14 miles from San Rafael. Tailored for business travelers, this accommodation offers a city-themed experience with convenient access to downtown San Francisco. Guests appreciate the modern amenities, including a business center and meeting facilities, ensuring a productive stay. The hotel’s prime location allows easy exploration of nearby attractions, making it a practical choice for both work and leisure.
• Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is a contemporary 4-star hotel featuring a guest rating of 9.0, situated 14 miles from San Rafael. Perfect for those on business trips or shopping excursions, this hotel is located in the bustling shopping district. Guests enjoy modern comforts, including ergonomic workspaces and complimentary Wi-Fi, alongside easy access to popular retail destinations. The hotel’s central setting enhances its appeal, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant city atmosphere.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

San Rafael, California, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly charm. Just minutes from San Francisco, explore scenic parks like Marin Country Mart or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city center. Nearby neighborhoods provide a welcoming vibe with friendly locals and urban conveniences. Stay at top-notch accommodations that cater to both relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal base for your Bay Area explorations.

• San Anselmo: Nestled just 2 miles from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors flock to this area for its picturesque landscapes and various recreational opportunities. The peak travel times are from March to April and July, making it a vibrant spot during spring and summer. San Anselmo features an array of attractions, including local theaters, educational venues, and access to nearby beaches and nature reserves. It's a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat with plenty of outdoor activities.
• Lucas Valley-Marinwood: This inviting neighborhood surrounds San Rafael and is a hidden gem for eco-conscious travelers. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, Lucas Valley-Marinwood offers a year-round outdoor experience marked by its lush greenery and recreational spots. Visitors can explore arts centers, golf courses, and recreational areas that cater to adventure seekers. The area is also home to stunning beaches, nature reserves, and historic buildings, making it an ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying cultural experiences.
• Terra Linda: Located close to San Rafael, Terra Linda is a family-friendly neighborhood that thrives with activity, especially during the summer months of June and August to September. Visitors can enjoy various local markets and recreational areas, making it a great spot for families and business travelers alike. Notable landmarks include modern civic government buildings, beautiful beaches, and access to national state parks. Terra Linda's welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions provide a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and exploration.

Things to do near San Rafael

San Rafael offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore recreational areas, enjoy educational attractions, and indulge in shopping at local malls. Don't miss out on the various local attractions that showcase the charm and character of this vibrant city.

Shopping

Your shopping adventure in San Rafael includes the Northgate Mall, featuring popular retail stores and dining options. If you're up for a drive, head to the Marin Country Mart in Larkspur, where you can discover unique boutiques and artisanal shops for one-of-a-kind gifts.

Recreation

The Pacific-Union Club, located 14 miles from San Rafael, offers a luxurious retreat atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Similarly, Green Valley Golf Club, 28 miles away, combines upscale amenities with serene surroundings, providing an ideal setting for wellness activities and recreational golf experiences.

Adventure

Explore China Camp State Park for hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails with stunning bay views. For a thrilling experience, rent a kayak and paddle along the calm waters of Marin County, discovering the beauty of the landscape and local wildlife.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marinwood Plaza, where you can enjoy delicious dining and cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Marin Brewing Company for craft beers and live music, or head to the Smith Ranch Road for a fun night out with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

• 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: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can sort your results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Rafael with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around San Rafael

San Rafael, California, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and urban experiences, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore its beautiful urban parks, relax at nearby beaches, and stroll through vibrant streets filled with culture. Whether you're seeking scenic views, engaging activities, or a taste of city life, San Rafael has plenty of attractions to satisfy every traveler's interests, ensuring a memorable getaway in this charming part of Marin County.

• Mission San Rafael Arcangel: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of California at Mission San Rafael Arcangel, a beautifully preserved church in San Rafael. Explore the serene grounds and learn about its role in the early days of the California missions.
• Golden Gate Bridge: Experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, located 11 miles from San Rafael. Stroll or bike across this engineering marvel while enjoying panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the city skyline.
• Pier 39: Visit Pier 39, a vibrant jetty 13 miles away, where you can enjoy street performances, shops, and delicious seafood. Take in the stunning waterfront scenery and watch the playful sea lions lounging nearby.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

To visit San Rafael, California, the main airport options are San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located 26 miles away, and Sacramento International Airport (SMF), which is 71 miles away. Near SFO, you can find luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco, Taj Campton Place, and Palace Hotel, all offering transfers and shuttles to the airport. For SMF, DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, and Hyatt Centric Downtown Sacramento provide convenient accommodations. Additionally, you can fly into Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), situated 53 miles from San Rafael, with nearby options like the Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible to the airport.