San Rafael Vacations from $471

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Your San Rafael Vacation

Book a San Rafael vacation 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 Center and Dominican University of California are among the most popular attractions worth exploring. Expedia has what you need to escape the everyday. Tailor your vacation to San Rafael to suit your travel style, whatever that may be!

The Latest San Rafael vacation packages

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Grove Inn

The Grove Inn

Western Addition
Save 100% on your flight
$471
per person
Oct 12 - Oct 15
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (729 reviews)
Very nice hotel. Stairs to the second floor are steep

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2026

Stanford Court San Francisco

Stanford Court San Francisco

Downtown San Francisco
Save 100% on your flight
$490
per person
Sep 25 - Sep 28
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)
9/10 Wonderful! (1,542 reviews)
Park James

Park James

Save 100% on your flight
$673
per person
Sep 10 - Sep 14
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (520 reviews)
Cavallo Point

Cavallo Point

Save 100% on your flight
$656
per person
Oct 17 - Oct 19
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
The Huntington Hotel

The Huntington Hotel

Downtown San Francisco
Save 100% on your flight
$1,133
per person
Sep 25 - Sep 28
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
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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
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Southeast San Rafael

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Southeast San Rafael and surrounding area, you can visit Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.

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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

2 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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.

Find hotels in Downtown San Rafael
Rolling green hills with a mountain range in the background.

Terra Linda

Discover the Mall at Northgate, Marin County's only enclosed mall, featuring a 15-screen theater complex and anchor tenants like Macy's. Nearby, admire the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Marin County Civic Center building.

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Dominican

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While there might not be top attractions in Dominican, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center.

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Lucas Valley-Marinwood

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

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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 artifacts, 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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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 Center. Savor artisanal cheeses and organic produce while enjoying live music on Sundays.
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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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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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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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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

Official Alcatraz Island Prison Tour with Free App Audio Packages

Alcatraz Inside Prison Tour with Free App Audio Packages

$86
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Inside Prison Tour with Free App Audio Packages
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

$139
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

$125
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
See all activities in San Rafael

San Rafael Hotel Deals

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

1500 Van Ness Ave San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$152 nightly
$179 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and 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
$176 nightly
$207 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
9/10 Wonderful! (7,633 reviews)
"The breakfast was excellent, good variety and very polite staff that kept it constantly topped up. The hotel also had a grab and go which had coffee, food and snacks until 10 at night.The location made it easy to get around. It was walkable to pier 39 , fisherman’s wharf sign and lots more . There ..."

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

351 Geary St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$158 nightly
$187 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Total with taxes and fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,427 reviews)
"Excellent location, charming early 1900’s classic vibe, very clean, cozy and the staff are really extra nice. We’ll definitely be back. Close public parking garage for $38/day if you don’t need the car or $43/day if you need in/out parking. This is much less than typical downtown SF hotel valet parking. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
See all 4,361 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.

Find the Best San Rafael Vacation Packages

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for vacationers. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, delightful picnic spots, and engaging educational experiences. With a variety of shopping mall centers and an activity guide highlighting fun things to do, San Rafael promises an unforgettable adventure for everyone. Plan your trip to explore all that this charming city has to offer.

Shopping

The Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market offers a vibrant local shopping experience with fresh produce and artisanal goods. For a bit more variety, head to Marin Country Mart, located 2 miles away, where you'll find shops, dining, and family-friendly entertainment. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby malls for even more options.

Recreation

Explore McNears Beach Country Park for serene walks along the shore and rejuvenating moments in nature. At Peacock Gap Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes. For evening entertainment, catch a live show at Sweetwater Music Hall, only 5 miles away, for a vibrant musical experience.

Adventure

Explore the Tennessee Valley Trailhead, a scenic hiking trail 8 miles from San Rafael, offering breathtaking views. Enjoy thrilling water sports at Boardsports Marin, located 7 miles away, perfect for adventure seekers. Lastly, hike the Marina Bay Trail, 9 miles from San Rafael, and soak in the stunning outdoor scenery.

Nightlife

San Rafael's nightlife offers a mix of romance and entertainment. Enjoy drinks at the American Legion Log Cabin, just 2 miles away, or head to the Oakland Tribune Tower for a lively pub experience, 18 miles from San Rafael. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit the Phoenix Theater, 19 miles 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 offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and beautiful scenery for your vacation. Explore popular attractions like local beaches, urban parks, and state parks, ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss out on the many activities that highlight the area's natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, ensuring a memorable experience in this charming California city.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic bridge, situated 12 miles from San Rafael, offers stunning views and rich history. Its striking Art Deco design and vibrant International Orange color create a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for photos and leisurely strolls.
  • Muir Woods National Monument: Located 6 miles away, this serene forest invites adventure seekers to explore its towering redwoods and lush trails. Immerse yourself in nature as you hike through this peaceful sanctuary, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Pier 39: Just 13 miles from San Rafael, this lively jetty features shops, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with picturesque waterfront views and watch sea lions basking in the sun, creating a fun and friendly experience.

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.

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 during the off-peak season (typically February and November to December) for more affordable package holidays to San Rafael.
  • 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
55ºF
Max Temp Summer
70ºF
Top Sights
Stinson Beach, Bolinas Beach and Mount Tamalpais State Park

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a San Rafael vacation package cost?
Offering excellent value package deals from $471 on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a vacation to San Rafael costs! Our packages mean less travel planning for you and greater savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to San Rafael?
January, July and December are great times to search for cheap San Rafael vacation packages. Traveling in less busy periods means you can typically find lower prices on hotels and flights.
How many days is enough for San Rafael?
To fully enjoy a San Rafael vacation, we suggest staying for 2 days. Divide your time between discovering Dominican University of California, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and other leading sights, in addition to experiencing neighborhoods like Strawberry and Almonte. If you've got some time to spare, include a day trip or tour in your San Rafael vacation itinerary.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to San Rafael?
San Rafael offers everything you need for a wonderful getaway. Begin your San Rafael vacation on a high note by visiting major attractions like Mission San Rafael Arcangel.
How to find the best San Rafael package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to help you find some tempting San Rafael package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or look for San Rafael package deals in the off-peak season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your vacation package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a San Rafael vacation as a package?
An Expedia vacation package could land you significant savings when compared to arranging flights and stays individually. Better still, you can customize your San Rafael escape to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a vacation package to San Rafael?
If you're considering a spur-of-the-moment San Rafael getaway, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score incredible deals on your flights and hotels by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to San Rafael?
  1. Choose your travel dates: The things you'd like to do in San Rafael and your preferred season can help you decide when to go.
  2. Figure out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from dining out and transportation to flights and activities. Your accommodations will likely be the largest expense during your trip to San Rafael.
  3. Use our trip planning tool to explore San Rafael: Research every part of your trip to San Rafael with this handy planner. Invite your friends and family to collaborate on a group getaway, search for hotels or things to do and make bookings.
  4. Decide how long to go for: Now that you're up to speed on San Rafael, you can figure out the ideal length of your vacation. Pull together a rough itinerary and allocate enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
  5. Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your car rental, hotels, flights and more into a personalized San Rafael vacation package.
  6. Book any activities or day trips: Now to the fun part — locking in everything you want to see and do. Check out some of the best things to do in San Rafael and book your tickets early to save time (and maybe some dollars too!).
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later San Rafael vacation packages?
If you're like us, you love jet-setting around the world but are not a fan of the big price tag that can come with it. That's why we offer Book Now, Pay Later vacations. With the help of online lender Affirm, you can break down the cost of your San Rafael break over 3, 6 or 12 months. There are also no hidden or late payment fees, so you can snap up cheap vacation packages with payment plans as soon as you see them.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.