San Rafael Holidays

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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
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.

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Southeast San Rafael

While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart.

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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.

Rolling green hills with a mountain range in the background.

Terra Linda

Terra Linda 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.

A mountain range with a sunset sky.

Gerstle Park

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a thrilling escape. Visitors can explore recreational areas, engage in educational activities, and enjoy shopping at local malls. Additionally, a variety of exotic tours and trip packages are available, including excursions to Arequipa, Guatemala, and Peru, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit Marin Country Mart, just 3.2km away, offering a mix of boutiques and eateries. The Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market in San Rafael is perfect for local produce. Book Passage, 4.8km away, is ideal for book lovers seeking unique finds.

Recreation

The Fillmore, located 22.5km away, offers vibrant musical experiences that uplift the spirit. In San Rafael, Peacock Gap Golf Club provides an invigorating outdoor environment for golf enthusiasts, while McNears Beach Country Park is perfect for relaxation and wellness amidst nature's beauty.

Adventure

At Tennessee Valley Trailhead, 12.9km from San Rafael, immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery while hiking through lush landscapes. The Dipsea Trailhead, located 8.0km away, offers a thrilling trail experience amidst nature. For water sports enthusiasts, Boardsports Marin, 11.3km from San Rafael, provides exhilarating outdoor activities on the water.

Nightlife

For a vibrant night out in San Rafael, start at the charming American Legion Log Cabin, a welcoming pub with a romantic atmosphere. Then, dance the night away at the lively Phoenix Theater, or unwind at the Oakland Tribune Tower, another delightful pub with a captivating vibe.

*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, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, boasting a variety of attractions such as urban parks, beaches, and national state parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences while enjoying family-friendly activities. Notable points of interest include the San Rafael Glacier and San Rafael Beach, making it a perfect spot for those looking to explore the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of the region.

  • Muir Woods National Monument: Explore the majestic coastal redwoods in this serene forest, just 9.7km from San Rafael. Muir Woods offers a peaceful escape with stunning trails, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the fresh, crisp air.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: A symbol of San Francisco, this iconic bridge is located 19.3km away and showcases remarkable engineering. Stroll or cycle across, taking in breathtaking views of the bay and city skyline while absorbing its rich cultural history.
  • Pier 39: Situated 20.9km from San Rafael, this vibrant jetty features shops, restaurants, and lively sea lions. Enjoy the urban atmosphere, scenic waterfront views, and a friendly community vibe as you indulge in local delights.

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

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling to San Rafael during the low season (February and November to December) for more affordable options.
  • 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.

Top hotels in San Rafael

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
S$300
18 Sept - 19 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (7,689 reviews)
"Great Location - Amazing Breakfast"

Reviewed on 14 Sept, 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
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
S$240
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (6,304 reviews)
"I had a great experience and would recommend."

Reviewed on 14 Sept, 2026

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

351 Geary St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
S$234
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,547 reviews)
"Great rooms, great price!"

Reviewed on 14 Sept, 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
See all 4,383 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.

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 artefacts, and peaceful mission gardens.
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A wooden pier extending into calm water, a wooden bench, and a rustic building with a metal roof.
Photo by Tony Donohoe

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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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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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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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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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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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.
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What to do in San Rafael

Golden Gate Bay Cruise Service: sail around Alcatraz!

Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

S$50
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

S$159
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

S$176
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
See all activities in San Rafael

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?
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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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. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.