The Best San Rafael Hotels on the Beach from $101 - Waterfront Hotels in San Rafael, CA

Q: How much does a beach hotel in San Rafael cost?

Prices for beach hotels in San Rafael vary, but you can find a great deal from $101 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're traveling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

Q: What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in San Rafael?

The best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in San Rafael is typically late spring through early fall, with July and August often considered peak. During these months, you can expect delightful temperatures averaging between 70°F and 75°F, creating great conditions for enjoying the waterfront at McNears Beach Park or exploring the scenic vistas along the Bay Trail. While families often gravitate towards the summer months to coincide with school holidays, taking advantage of the warm weather for outdoor activities, couples and solo travellers might find the shoulder seasons equally appealing. Due to the desirability of the summer months, hotel availability, especially for premium beachside accommodations, can be quite competitive, and rates generally reflect this heightened demand. For a truly charming experience with easier reservations and potentially better value, consider visiting in September. The weather remains wonderfully mild, often in the high 60s, offering ideal conditions for a leisurely stroll through the Marinwood Plaza or enjoying a boat tour from the local marina.

Q: Is it cheaper to book a San Rafael beach hotel and flights as a package?

Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking a beach vacation package well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package .

Q: Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline—this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in San Rafael for you.

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Our top choices for San Rafael beach hotels

Marin Lodge

Lincoln

$109 nightly

Jul 27 - Jul 28

Total with taxes and fees

Panama Hotel

Gerstle Park

$98 nightly

Aug 20 - Aug 21

Total with taxes and fees

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael at Marin Center

Las Gallinas

$171 nightly

Aug 2 - Aug 3

Total with taxes and fees

2 restaurants; breakfast and dinner served

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

Downtown San Rafael

$263 nightly

Jul 25 - Jul 26

Total with taxes and fees

Standard Room, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave (with Sofabed) | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, cribs (free)

SureStay Hotel by Best Western San Rafael

Canal

$121 nightly

Aug 4 - Aug 5

Total with taxes and fees

North Bay Inn

Canal

$111 nightly

Aug 3 - Aug 4

Total with taxes and fees

Designer Apartment < 1 Mile to Downtown San Rafael

Lincoln

$340 nightly

Aug 10 - Aug 11

Total with taxes and fees

Best Western Corte Madera Inn

Corte Madera

$167 nightly

Jul 30 - Jul 31

Total with taxes and fees

View all properties

Choose what matters most at beach hotels in San Rafael

Pool

Breakfast included

Find out more about San Rafael

San Rafael and its attractions for beach lovers

San Rafael, California, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and beach proximity, perfect for families seeking memorable experiences. Start your day at China Camp State Park, where you can hike scenic trails or enjoy a picnic while soaking in stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Just a short drive away, Marinwood Community Park features a playground and sports fields, making it ideal for kids to burn off energy. For a beach day, head to nearby Stinson Beach, known for its expansive sands and gentle waves, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. If you're looking for a more tranquil experience, visit Marin Country Mart, where you can shop at upscale boutiques followed by a relaxing meal with views of the bay. Consider staying in the vibrant downtown area, where you’ll find boutique hotels offering modern amenities and attentive service, ensuring a comfortable base for your coastal adventures. With easy access to the beach and local attractions, San Rafael invites you to create cherished family memories.

Top San Rafael Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Our stay at the Golden Gate Hotel made our San Francisco trip even more memorable. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and comfortable. The hotel’s historic charm gave us a true San Francisco experience, and it was the perfect home base after our days of exploring the city. The location was one of our favorite things about the hotel. We loved being in Nob Hill, a beautiful and quieter area away from some of the busier, more touristy parts of San Francisco, while still being close enough to easily enjoy everything the city has to offer. We were able to walk around the neighborhood, ride the famous cable cars, visit Alcatraz, explore Fisherman’s Wharf, and see so many of the iconic sights we came to experience. After full days of adventure, it was nice to return to a peaceful and cozy hotel with so much character. The historic details and welcoming atmosphere made it feel like we were staying somewhere special, not just another hotel. The staff was kind and helpful, adding to the personal feel of our stay. San Francisco was a trip we will always remember, and the Golden Gate Hotel was the perfect place to experience the city. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a charming, unique, and well-located hotel with a true San Francisco feel."

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

10/10 Excellent

"Tout était parfait ! Le personnel serviable, les déjeuners excellents., accessibilité au parking directement du lobby était génial. L’emplacement à proximité du Pier 39 était parfait ! Je donne une note de 10/10. Lors de notre prochain séjour à San Francisco,, je reprends une chambre au Riu Plaza Du Fisherman’s Wharf !!!"

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

10/10 Excellent

"Loved the old school-hotel vibe. The free cookies out front elevated the check-in experience right off the bat. I wish I would have taken advantage of the pillow ordering service, the default pillows and bed were amazing regardless. The bath salts and rubber ducky in the bathroom was an excellent touch. Make sure to take your ducky with you to remember your trip and stay (it's meant to be taken as a souvenir, we checked!). Would book again"

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA

10/10 Excellent

"The staff, location and room service were excellent. Walkers would enjoy this location because shopping and dining are all within walking distance. Not too far from the Golden gate bridge and the airport. Highly recommended. There is only 1 restaurant in the hotel and closes early so be aware!"

Frequently asked questions

How much does a beach hotel in San Rafael cost?

Prices for beach hotels in San Rafael vary, but you can find a great deal from $101 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're traveling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in San Rafael?

The best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in San Rafael is typically late spring through early fall, with July and August often considered peak. During these months, you can expect delightful temperatures averaging between 70°F and 75°F, creating great conditions for enjoying the waterfront at McNears Beach Park or exploring the scenic vistas along the Bay Trail.

While families often gravitate towards the summer months to coincide with school holidays, taking advantage of the warm weather for outdoor activities, couples and solo travellers might find the shoulder seasons equally appealing. Due to the desirability of the summer months, hotel availability, especially for premium beachside accommodations, can be quite competitive, and rates generally reflect this heightened demand.

For a truly charming experience with easier reservations and potentially better value, consider visiting in September. The weather remains wonderfully mild, often in the high 60s, offering ideal conditions for a leisurely stroll through the Marinwood Plaza or enjoying a boat tour from the local marina.

Is it cheaper to book a San Rafael beach hotel and flights as a package?

Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking a beach vacation package well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline—this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in San Rafael for you.

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