Hotels in San Rafael

San Rafael: Where Architectural Wonders Embrace Nature's Serenity

Nestled in the heart of Marin County, San Rafael is a charming blend of culture and nature, just a short drive from San Francisco. This picturesque city boasts stunning architecture, lush forests, and a vibrant arts scene. Explore the historic downtown, where quaint shops and eateries line the streets, or venture into the nearby Marin Headlands for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. With its scenic parks, like China Camp State Park, and rich history, San Rafael offers a delightful escape for those seeking both relaxation and exploration in a captivating Californian setting. For the best hotel rates in San Rafael and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in San Rafael

Some of the best places to stay in San Rafael are Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf and South of Market. San Rafael is a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions, including Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, and South of Market. Downtown San Francisco offers a vibrant urban experience, Fisherman’s Wharf is ideal for waterfront dining and sightseeing, and South of Market boasts trendy nightlife and cultural venues. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious options, with each area featuring diverse guest rooms. For first-time visitors, Downtown San Francisco is the best choice, providing easy access to iconic landmarks. Here are some of the best hotels in San Rafael that our travelers love:

1. Downtown San FranciscoOpens in a new window: Downtown San Francisco is an exciting area perfect for families and business travelers alike. With attractions like Pier 39, Chase Center, and Moscone Convention Center, it offers a vibrant urban experience. The hotels here include 1 Hotel San FranciscoOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that caters to both business and family needs, featuring amenities like a business center and childcare services. Another option is Four Seasons Hotel San FranciscoOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, which provides luxurious accommodations with conference spaces and 24-hour business services. Lastly, The St. Regis San FranciscoOpens in a new window is another high-end choice, offering a prime city center location and extensive business amenities.
2. Fisherman's WharfOpens in a new window: Fisherman's Wharf is a family-friendly destination known for stunning waterfront views and rich maritime history. It’s close to attractions like Pier 39 and the Moscone Convention Center. Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli SquareOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel featuring beach access and business-friendly amenities, making it ideal for both relaxation and productivity. Alternatively, Argonaut HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, is situated in a historic building, providing unique charm alongside modern conveniences including adventure activities nearby. Kimpton Alton Fisherman's Wharf, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, another 4.5-star property, caters to pet owners and shoppers, located conveniently in the shopping district.
3. South of MarketOpens in a new window: South of Market is a vibrant area popular with families and business travelers, featuring attractions like Pier 39 and the Moscone Convention Center. Waterfront Hotel, part of JdV by HyattOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, offers adventure-themed experiences along with essential business amenities, making it a well-rounded choice. Oakland Marriott City CenterOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that provides excellent business services and a family-friendly environment, featuring a golf experience on-site. Lastly, Marriott San RamonOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star hotel, allows pets and offers various adventure sports nearby, ensuring a fulfilling stay for all types of travelers.

Things to do in San Rafael for first time

San Rafael offers a perfect three-day getaway for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty and vibrant activities. Explore lush forests, stunning mountains, and tranquil lakes while enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking and biking. Unwind with breathtaking sunsets, local festivals, and diverse shopping and entertainment options that showcase the area's charm. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to San Rafael:

• Day 1: Start your San Rafael adventure at Pier 39, where you can enjoy waterfront dining and watch the famous sea lions basking in the sun. Afterward, take a scenic drive to Union Square, the heart of downtown San Francisco, known for its upscale shops and vibrant atmosphere. Spend some time exploring the local boutiques and art galleries. Conclude your day with a stroll down Lombard Street, famously known as the crookedest street in the world, and capture some picturesque photos of its steep, winding turns adorned with beautiful flowers.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Muir Woods National Monument, home to towering ancient redwoods that create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. After a peaceful hike among these giants, head to Green Gulch Farm, a lovely Zen center and organic farm, where you can enjoy a light lunch and perhaps take part in a meditation session. In the afternoon, unwind at Muir Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore or take a scenic walk along the coastline while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge; walk or bike across for stunning views of the bay and city skyline. Next, immerse yourself in the beauty of Golden Gate Park, where you can explore the lush gardens, visit the de Young Museum, or the California Academy of Sciences. Wrap up your day at the Presidio of San Francisco, a former military base turned national park, where you can hike scenic trails, enjoy panoramic views, and discover the rich history of the area while relaxing in this beautiful setting.

5 tips to find a great San Rafael hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For travelers on a budget, the best time to visit San Rafael is during February, November, and December when hotel prices are more affordable. International visitors should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance to secure the best rates. To truly experience the great value for money that San Rafael offers, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully explore its stunning architecture and beautiful forests.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to San Rafael, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you make the most of any potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in San Rafael.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in San Rafael is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving or using the bus to explore the area, which is more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in San Rafael and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in San Rafael

Here are a few popular dishes in San Rafael, California, United States of America:

• Burritos: A staple of Californian cuisine, these oversized wraps often feature grilled meats, fresh veggies, and zesty salsas, all enveloped in a warm tortilla. In San Rafael, local taquerias offer unique twists with seasonal ingredients, making each bite a personalized experience.
• Seafood: The proximity to the Pacific Ocean means fresh catches abound. Dive into dishes like grilled fish tacos or clam chowder, often served with a side of artisan bread. Many local restaurants emphasize sustainable fishing practices, reflecting the community's commitment to the environment.
• Sushi: San Rafael boasts a vibrant sushi scene, where chefs blend traditional techniques with local flavors. Enjoy rolls featuring fresh avocado, crab, and seasonal vegetables, often presented artfully to enhance your dining experience. Sushi here is not just a meal; it's a social event, perfect for sharing and enjoying with friends.

Best time to go to San Rafael

San Rafael experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 50.5°F (10.3°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.7°F (17.6°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in San Rafael, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

San Rafael Travel Information