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
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.
Southeast San Rafael
While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Dominican
1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
While Dominican isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center are some notable places to visit nearby.
Canal
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Canal and surrounding area, you can visit Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Terra Linda
Terra Linda might not have many top sights, but American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Top hotels in San Rafael
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
1500 Van Ness Ave San Francisco CA
Fully refundable
3.883.416 ₫
4.570.587 ₫ total
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
2500 Mason St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
3.439.997 ₫
5.127.280 ₫ total
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (7,651 reviews)
"We enjoyed everything about this hotel, the close proximity to Pier 39 was great. The breakfast was delicious with many choices. Staff was helpful and friendly."
Reviewed on 21 Aug 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
351 Geary St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
4.288.075 ₫
5.046.850 ₫ total
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,460 reviews)
"This was my second stay and Handlery and I'm telling you, the Premium Queen room is the way to go! Way bigger than the Standard Double with floor space, also came with a nice chair, little bench, desk, full wall of windows leading out to a small patio overlooking the pool, plus a large vanity outside ..."
Reviewed on 21 Aug 2026
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.
Stay near popular San Rafael attractions
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 artefacts, and peaceful mission gardens.
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.
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.
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 Centre. Savour artisanal cheeses and organic produce while enjoying live music on Sundays.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a San Rafael holiday package cost?
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday 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?
You can typically find lower prices and better availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap San Rafael holiday packages and you could get some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for San Rafael?
With around 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy popular neighbourhoods like Almonte and Strawberry during your San Rafael holiday. Be sure to also add Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Baseball - Albert Park to your sightseeing list. Looking for more adventures? Consider venturing outside of San Rafael on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to San Rafael?
San Rafael has everything you need for an amazing getaway. Begin your San Rafael holiday on a high note by exploring 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 holiday package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a San Rafael holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you significant savings when compared to arranging flights and stays individually. Better still, you can customise 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 holiday 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?
- Choose when to go: Check your diary and get your bags packed. Your favourite season and the type of activities on offer will also help you decide when to escape to San Rafael.
- Budget wisely: Besides the cost of your stay, you should consider other expenses. These include transportation, food and flights. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected costs that may arise during your trip to San Rafael.
- Work out your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend exploring San Rafael. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and experiences you're interested in without rushing.
- Bundle your airfare and accommodation: After you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, lock in the perfect San Rafael holiday package for you.
