Hotels in San Rafael

Discover the Enchanted Harmony of San Rafael’s Forested Splendor and Architectural Charm

Discover San Rafael, California, a charming city nestled in the heart of Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Known for its stunning architecture and lush forests, San Rafael invites travelers to explore its vibrant downtown, where delightful shops and eateries await. Enjoy scenic hikes in the nearby Marin Headlands or stroll through the picturesque canal district. Experience local culture at the Marin History Museum or catch a show at the thriving arts center, Marin Center. With its unique blend of nature, culture, and community spirit, San Rafael is a hidden gem perfect for an unforgettable getaway.

Discover great hotels in San Rafael

San Rafael offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to modern hotels, catering to different budgets. You can find friendly service and good amenities, with many options providing competitive rates. Whether you're seeking a cheap hotel or something more upscale, there are plenty of deals to explore. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in San Rafael:

1. Yellow Emperor SanctuaryOpens in a new window: Yellow Emperor Sanctuary is a charming 2.5-star guesthouse that offers a cozy retreat for leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience. With free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, this hotel ensures a stress-free experience for guests. Emphasizing a relaxed atmosphere, Yellow Emperor Sanctuary allows travelers to unwind while enjoying essential amenities that cater to their needs. The positive sentiments highlight its welcoming environment and the ease of access to local attractions, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore San Rafael.
2. San Anselmo InnOpens in a new window: San Anselmo Inn is a delightful 2.5-star hotel ideal for leisure travelers who appreciate a vibrant dining scene and recreational activities. With an array of dining options, including a restaurant and complimentary daily breakfast, this hotel creates a dynamic atmosphere for guests to indulge their culinary cravings. The nearby fitness facilities and entertainment options, such as a flatscreen television and cable television, enhance the overall experience. Positive reviews celebrate its lively ambiance and the perfect blend of comfort and excitement, making it a wonderful choice for those wishing to immerse themselves in the local culture.
3. Courtyard San Francisco Larkspur Landing/Marin CountyOpens in a new window: Courtyard San Francisco Larkspur Landing/Marin County, a welcoming 3.0-star hotel, is perfectly suited for travelers seeking an inclusive and distinctive vacation experience. This property embraces the LGBTQIA community, offering a comfortable haven that promotes acceptance and enjoyment. Guests can revel in thoughtfully designed spaces and a friendly atmosphere. Positive sentiments underline the hotel's commitment to providing a memorable stay, allowing visitors to connect with like-minded individuals and explore San Rafael with ease.

Top locations to stay in San Rafael

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting San Rafael are Sausalito, Stinson Beach, and Mill Valley. Sausalito offers stunning scenery and waterfront charm, perfect for leisurely strolls. Stinson Beach boasts beautiful sandy shores ideal for sunbathing and surfing, while Mill Valley is enveloped by serene forests, great for outdoor enthusiasts. For first-time visitors, Sausalito is the best choice for its picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere.

1. SausalitoOpens in a new window: If you're looking for stunning scenery and a laid-back vibe, Sausalito is a fantastic place to stay. Nestled along the waterfront, this charming town offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. You can explore the picturesque streets filled with unique boutiques and art galleries, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. Don’t miss the chance to hop on a ferry to San Francisco for a day of exploration. With its cozy cafes and vibrant local arts scene, Sausalito is perfect for those wanting a scenic retreat close to the city.
2. Stinson BeachOpens in a new window: For beach lovers, Stinson Beach is a must-visit destination. Known for its beautiful sandy shores and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. The surrounding natural beauty provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Marin Headlands or simply enjoying a beach picnic. Whether you’re into beachcombing or catching some waves, Stinson Beach offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, making it an ideal choice for a coastal getaway.
3. Mill ValleyOpens in a new window: If you're yearning for a blend of lush forests and a quaint town atmosphere, Mill Valley is an excellent option. Surrounded by majestic redwoods, it’s a great base for hiking and enjoying nature. The charming downtown area is filled with boutique shops and cozy cafes, inviting you to relax and explore local culture. Additionally, Mill Valley hosts various cultural events throughout the year, offering a peek into the community's artistic spirit. With its unique blend of outdoor recreation and a small-town feel, Mill Valley is perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Things to do in San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of lush forests and scenic parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy biking along winding trails, savor stunning sunsets by tranquil lakes, or dive into local festivals filled with vibrant energy. With ample shopping options and lively entertainment, this charming destination has something for everyone.

• Presidio of San FranciscoOpens in a new window – Explore this historic urban park, where you can wander through lush forests and appreciate stunning architecture. The Presidio features trails that lead to breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely hike or a picnic amidst nature. Don't miss the chance to visit the various museums and cultural sites nestled in this scenic area.
• Pier 39Opens in a new window – Head to this lively jetty for a blend of waterfront fun and iconic attractions. Enjoy watching sea lions basking in the sun or indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants. With a variety of shops and entertainment options, Pier 39 is a vibrant place to spend a day, offering stunning views of the bay and the city skyline.
• Golden Gate ParkOpens in a new window – Stroll through this expansive urban park that boasts beautiful gardens, tranquil lakes, and a variety of recreational activities. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk to discover hidden gems like the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum. Whether you prefer a relaxing day surrounded by nature or engaging in outdoor sports, Golden Gate Park has something for everyone.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Rafael

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit San Rafael are February, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For an enriching experience, aim for at least a 2 to 3-day stay to fully appreciate the city's landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. During your visit, you can enjoy stunning sunsets, participate in local festivals, explore biking trails, and indulge in shopping and dining. Additionally, take the time to admire the art and architecture, as well as the surrounding forests, all of which offer great value for money while immersing you in the region's history and culture.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover potential last-minute deals to San Rafael, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of saving. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare room rates and amenities, making it easier to find great hotel rates. With these resources, you’re more likely to secure a fantastic deal for your San Rafael vacation.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may differ based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a San Rafael hotel. If you're in search of something unique, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and sometimes offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates to help you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but with San Rafael's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that is still well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there are often excellent deals to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join now for free and unlock incredible savings on your next stay in San Rafael! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Enjoy the benefits of quickly advancing through membership tiers, which include perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic opportunities for your travel adventures!

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit San Rafael are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.