San Rafael Holidays
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Where to stay in San Rafael
Downtown San Rafael
City centre San Rafael captures California's Spanish colonial past through its historic Mission and Victorian buildings along Fourth Street. The area buzzes with a weekly farmers market, summer street festivals, and screenings at the Rafael Film Centre. Art and culture thrive at Art Works City centre with its galleries and studios. Visitors can explore the white adobe walls of Mission San Rafael Arcángel or admire ornate Victorian mansions nearby. The area offers diverse dining options reflecting Latino influences and local California cuisine. Mountain views provide a stunning backdrop to this walkable city centre with its authentic community feel.
Gerstle Park
Step back in time along the tree-lined streets of Gerstle Park, San Rafael's historic gem. Victorian and Craftsman homes showcase ornate woodwork and colourful facades dating back to the 19th century. The peaceful namesake park offers shaded walking paths under heritage oaks and redwoods. This residential haven sits just minutes from city centre San Rafael's dining and shopping options. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the well-preserved historic details throughout the area. Visitors can enjoy the authentic local atmosphere while strolling through this charming, quiet district.
Montecito-Happy Valley
Montecito-Happy Valley offers a serene retreat from San Rafael's urban energy. This affluent area features spacious homes along quiet tree-lined streets. Mature oaks create natural canopies over winding roads with manicured gardens. The peaceful atmosphere appeals to travellers seeking an exclusive residential experience. Luxury holiday rentals with premium amenities dominate the accommodation options here. While lacking shops or restaurants within its boundaries, the area provides easy access to city centre San Rafael's amenities. Nearby China Camp State Park offers excellent hiking trails and bay views for nature enthusiasts.
Sun Valley
While Sun Valley may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like American Legion Log Cabin and San Anselmo Town Hall.
Civic Center
While visiting Civic Center, you might make a stop by sights like Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market and Marin County Civic Center.
Discover the most popular places to visit in San Rafael
China Camp State Park
What to do in San Rafael
Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
San Rafael Hotel Deals
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael at Marin Center
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael at Marin Center
Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East
Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East
SureStay Hotel by Best Western San Rafael
SureStay Hotel by Best Western San RafaelFrequently 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.
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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.
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.
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.