When you visit Mill Valley, you’ll find a delightful range of hotel options to suit your travel style. Nestled in Marin County, California, this charming town offers a mix of modern comforts and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, there’s something for everyone here.
Choosing the right hotel can make your stay in Mill Valley unforgettable. Many hotels are conveniently located near stunning trails and attractions, giving you easy access to explore the area’s famous redwood groves and vibrant local culture. Expect a warm welcome and comfortable stay as you enjoy all that Mill Valley has to offer.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Mill Valley Inn
Mill Valley Inn is where you find comfort and charm blended with nature’s beauty. It’s tucked away among redwoods in Mill Valley, a town known for its vibrant community and natural allure. You can easily access local trails, making it perfect for those who love hiking and exploring the outdoors.
When you stay at Mill Valley Inn, you’re just steps away from delightful local restaurants, cafes, and shops. The property even hosts one of Mill Valley’s hidden stairways, a starting point for an exciting urban adventure. The hotel reflects the essence of a classic Northern California village with its serene environment.
The rooms at the inn offer a mix of sophistication and coziness. Many guests enjoy the close proximity to both the vibrant town life and peaceful natural landscapes. Discover more about the unique experience of staying here by checking out more details about Mill Valley Inn.
Rating: 4.7 (141 reviews)
Location: 165 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 389-6608
Website: Visit Website
Acqua Hotel Mill Valley
At Acqua Hotel Mill Valley, you’re in for a special treat. Located near attractions like San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Napa Valley, it’s a perfect place to relax. The hotel provides a peaceful escape with easy access to exciting destinations.
From the moment you wake up, you’ll enjoy a wonderful breakfast buffet and made-to-order espresso drinks. Afternoons bring a delightful wine and cheese reception. Don’t miss out on the warm cookies at bedtime, adding a sweet touch to your stay.
You’ll also find EO Aromatherapy natural bath products to enjoy some well-deserved self-care. If you feel like exploring, borrow a bike for a ride around the bayside track. Plus, free parking close to hotel entrances makes your visit hassle-free.
Rating: 4.6 (388 reviews)
Location: 555 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 380-0400
Website: Visit Website
Mountain Home Inn
Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais, Mountain Home Inn offers a peaceful escape surrounded by stunning nature. With prime views of San Francisco Bay and easy access to nearby hiking trails, it’s an ideal spot for those who love the outdoors. The inn’s history and charm make it a unique place to stay.
You’re just a short drive from Muir Woods and the beaches of Stinson Beach, providing fantastic options for daytime adventures. The cozy atmosphere at the inn makes it a wonderful retreat after exploring Marin County. Enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant, which caters to a variety of dietary needs with its diverse menu options.
For some laid-back relaxation, head to the shared lounge or terrace and soak in the stunning views. The inn also hosts events like Locals Night with live music and great deals on food and drinks. Whether you’re sitting on your balcony with a sea view or hiking the trails, there’s something special about being here.
Rating: 4.4 (501 reviews)
Location: 810 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 381-9000
Website: Visit Website
Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley San Francisco Area, an IHG Hotel
Located in the heart of Marin County, the Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley San Francisco Area offers a welcoming environment for travelers. This hotel is perfect for both relaxing and exploring. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Mount Tamalpais and convenient access to the Golden Gate Bridge and Downtown San Francisco.
The location makes it easy to discover nearby attractions like the Bothin Marsh walk path, the scenic Bay Trail Nature Reserve, and the towering redwoods in Muir Woods. If you’re up for an adventure, hop on the Larkspur Ferry to explore historic San Francisco. For wine lovers, the legendary Napa Valley is a short drive away.
Start your mornings with a complimentary breakfast and unwind later at the fireside courtyard patio. You can also take advantage of the outdoor pool, Fitness Center, and free Wi-Fi during your stay. The hotel’s services create a comfortable stay after a day of exploring, whether you’re into culture or the great outdoors.
Rating: 4 (673 reviews)
Location: 160 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 332-5700
Website: Visit Website
Travelodge Mill Valley
Travelodge by Wyndham in Mill Valley is a friendly place to stay if you’re exploring the nearby attractions. You’re close to both the town’s charm and the stunning landscapes. It’s a spot many travelers find convenient for a restful stay.
If you’re planning a visit, there are some things to know about your stay. Rooms are straightforward, and you might have extra charges for amenities like parking or pets. It’s a good idea to check the policies when you book.
During your stay, you can enjoy easy access to local attractions. Whether you’re here for the natural beauty or the local shops, there’s plenty to explore.
Rating: 3.4 (420 reviews)
Location: 707 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 569-3948
Website: Visit Website
Muir Woods Lodge – Mill Valley
When you stay at Muir Woods Lodge in Mill Valley, you are in a perfect spot to enjoy the charm of this quaint town. Set along Shoreline Highway, this cozy lodge gives you easy access to an array of nearby attractions like restaurants, shops, and golf courses. You’re not far from the beach, either!
What makes this place feel like home is that it’s owner-operated. The lodge provides clean and affordable rooms for both vacationing families and business travelers. You’ll love starting your day with a complimentary breakfast, savoring fresh breakfast breads, pastries, coffee, and tea.
Convenience is key here, with free high-speed WiFi, cable TV with HBO, and a comfortable setting. Muir Woods Lodge is also just a short drive from iconic spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods, and downtown Sausalito.
Rating: 3.6 (193 reviews)
Location: 155 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 332-1732
Website: Visit Website
Tamalpais Motel
When you visit Mill Valley, the Tamalpais Motel offers a convenient and cozy place to stay. Located off the Redwood Highway, this motel puts you close to everything you want to see. San Francisco and other scenic spots like Muir Woods are just minutes away.
You’ll find comfortable rooms at the Tamalpais Motel equipped with modern amenities. Enjoy complimentary WiFi, personal climate control, and in-room conveniences like refrigerators and microwaves. The friendly 24-hour front desk staff is ready to assist with any needs during your stay.
Parking at the Tamalpais Motel is hassle-free, with complimentary self-parking available directly in front of your room. You’ll appreciate the quiet setting while being close to various dining and shopping options. The location allows easy access to popular attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito.
Rating: 3.4 (126 reviews)
Location: 680 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley, CA
Contact: (415) 381-4775
Website: Visit Website
Overview of Lodging in Mill Valley
Mill Valley has a surprising mix of places to stay, from cozy boutique hotels tucked along creeks to practical, wallet-friendly options. The town’s got that rare blend of natural beauty and close proximity to must-see spots like Muir Woods and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Boutique and Luxury Options
The Mill Valley Inn is a standout boutique spot. It’s a historic property with Victorian charm, but you’ll notice the modern touches right away. There are only 7 rooms here, so it feels intimate and the staff actually remember your name. Step outside your room and you’re greeted by the sound of a creek and the smell of redwoods—hard to beat.
The Acqua Hotel leans modern, offering a sleek 3-star experience with views over the San Francisco Bay. It’s more waterfront retreat than city hotel, but you’re still close to everything Mill Valley has going on.
Typical luxury perks in Mill Valley include:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Gourmet breakfast (sometimes surprisingly good)
- Custom furnishings
- Views of the forest, creek, or bay
- Walkable to downtown shops
Click here to see our articles on Marin County Boutique Hotels.
Mid-Range Options
There are several mid-range hotels that hit a nice balance—comfortable, not over-the-top, and easier on the budget than the boutique crowd.
The Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley is a reliable choice, offering modern rooms and all the basics you’d expect: free WiFi, breakfast, parking. It’s still rated 3 stars and puts you close to hiking and local sights.
Mid-range places generally offer:
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Free WiFi
- Continental breakfast
- Small fitness centers
- Easy booking through big travel sites
Most are a quick drive from downtown, so you get convenience without paying a premium for location.
Click here to read our article on Marin County Hotels and Marin County Bed & Breakfasts.
Budget Options
If you’re watching your spending, Mill Valley’s got a handful of budget choices, with rates starting around $69 per night if you time it right. You’ll get the basics, but that leaves more money for exploring.
Budget hotels usually come with:
- Simple, clean rooms
- Free WiFi
- Limited but useful amenities
- Self-parking
- Close to public transit
Lots of these budget spots are refundable if you book through major travel sites like Expedia, which takes some pressure off if your plans change. Sure, they’re simpler, but you’ll still have quick access to Mill Valley’s best outdoor spots.
Click here to see our articles on Marin County Budget Lodging and Marin County Motels.
Essential Booking Information
It pays to know a few booking details before you commit—trust me, it’ll save you hassle at check-in.
Availability and Special Requests
Mill Valley hotels fill up fast in summer and on weekends. If you want the best rooms and rates, try to book 2-3 months ahead.
Pet policies are all over the map. Some places welcome pets, but you’ve got to mention them when booking. The Mill Valley Inn and a few others offer pet-friendly rooms for a fee, usually $25-50 per night.
If you’re sensitive to noise, ask for a room away from any construction. There’s occasional renovation work at some properties, and it can get loud.
For special requests—like accessible rooms, early check-in, or a certain view—just call the hotel directly. Booking sites don’t always get the message across, and staff usually try harder when you reach out yourself.
Check-In Process and Required Documents
Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out is 11:00 AM. Early check-in sometimes works out if your room’s ready, but don’t count on it.
Bring:
- Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- The credit card you booked with
Hotels usually put a hold on your card for incidentals—figure $50-100 per night. They’ll release it if you don’t rack up extra charges.
Free Wi-Fi is the norm, though speeds can be hit or miss. Some places charge extra for faster connections, which feels a bit outdated, but it happens.
Nearby Attractions and Natural Landmarks
Mill Valley’s location makes it a great jumping-off point for some of Northern California’s best scenery. You’re minutes from redwood forests, dramatic coastlines, and mountain trails—pretty much the dream for nature lovers.
Downtown Mill Valley
The downtown area is super walkable from most hotels. There’s a classic town square, plus shops, restaurants, and cafes—great for grabbing a coffee or lingering over dinner.
The Depot Bookstore & Cafe, in the old train station, is a cozy spot to flip through a book. Around the corner, Sweetwater Music Hall brings in live acts several nights a week—definitely worth checking out.
Downtown’s got some fun seasonal events, too:
- Mill Valley Film Festival (October)
- Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival (September)
- Winterfest (December)
Some hotels offer rental bikes, so you can cruise around town without fighting for parking. The Mill Valley Public Library sits by a creek and is a surprisingly peaceful place to unwind.
Proximity to Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument, famous for ancient coastal redwoods, is just 3-5 miles from most Mill Valley hotels. The trees—some over 250 feet tall and 800 years old—are genuinely awe-inspiring.
Heads up: You’ll need advance parking reservations or a shuttle ticket for Muir Woods. Many hotels can help you sort out transport or give you the inside scoop.
The monument has trails for every mood:
- Main Trail Loop (1 mile) – Paved and accessible
- Hillside Trail (1.5 miles) – A moderate climb, usually less crowded
- Dipsea Trail connection – A tough route for serious hikers
If you want some quiet, try going early (before 9:00 AM) or later in the day (after 3:00 PM). The cool, misty air in the redwoods feels especially refreshing when it’s hot everywhere else.
Click here to see our article on hotels near Muir Woods.
Access to Golden Gate National Recreation Area
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area wraps around Mill Valley, with 82,000 acres of protected land. From most hotels, it’s a quick drive to beaches, old forts, and scenic trails.
Don’t miss these:
- Muir Beach (9 miles) – A quiet cove with tide pools
- Stinson Beach (12 miles) – Wide, sandy, and good for swimming
- Tennessee Valley (6 miles) – Easy hike to the ocean
- Rodeo Beach (14 miles) – Pebble beach with colorful stones
Check out the Marin Headlands for jaw-dropping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city. Fort Baker, once a military post, now hosts Cavallo Point Lodge and has some cool history if you’re into that.
Hotels usually hand out trail maps and can suggest good routes based on how much you want to sweat. The weather here flips fast—layers are your friend, even if it looks sunny.
Click here to see our article on hotels near the Golden Gate Bridge.
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Mount Tamalpais—locals just call it “Mt. Tam”—towers 2,571 feet above town and has some of the Bay Area’s most epic views. Over 60 miles of trails connect right into Mill Valley’s neighborhoods.
You can reach trailheads from most hotels in about 10-15 minutes by car. The East Peak visitor center is a good place to get your bearings. On a clear day, you might spot the Farallon Islands, San Francisco, and the East Bay—if you’re lucky.
Some favorite activities:
- Hiking (something for everyone, no matter your pace)
- Mountain biking (this is where the sport was born, after all)
- Picnicking at East Peak or Bootjack
- Stargazing at the Mountain Theater
The Mountain Theater, a big stone amphitheater, hosts summer performances. The Gravity Car Barn museum tells the story of the old railroad that once brought visitors up the mountain.
Fog often rolls over Mt. Tam on summer mornings but usually burns off by afternoon. If you’re after crisp, clear hiking weather, fall’s your best bet.
Click here to see our guide to Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Cavallo Point and Other Points of Interest
Cavallo Point sits right at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, just 7 miles from Mill Valley. What used to be a military post now feels like a hidden retreat, with a fancy lodge, some solid restaurants, and a spa where you can catch those jaw-dropping bridge views.
You don’t have to book a room to enjoy Cavallo Point. Swing by for a meal, try out the spa, or just wander the old buildings and grounds—they’re open to everyone.
Nearby, you might want to check out:
- Angel Island State Park – Catch a ferry from Tiburon (about 10 miles away) for some fresh air and hiking.
- Sausalito’s houseboat community – This spot’s got quirky floating homes and a real artsy vibe.
- Headlands Center for the Arts – Modern art tucked inside old military buildings, if that’s your thing.
- Point Bonita Lighthouse – Still in use, and the coastal views are honestly worth the trek.
Families with little ones often end up at the Bay Area Discovery Museum, just down the road from Cavallo Point. The hands-on exhibits are all about sparking creativity and letting kids mess around with science.
Over in Tiburon, Main Street lines up waterfront restaurants with some pretty unbeatable San Francisco views. The old ferry building is worth a quick look too, especially if you like poking around local history and maritime stories.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Marin County Bed & Breakfasts
Marin County Boutique Hotels
Marin County Budget Lodging
Marin County Hotels
Marin County Motels
Marin County Vacation Homes
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
