San Rafael sits just north of San Francisco, offering visitors a sweet spot between natural beauty and lively city life. This Bay Area town blends peaceful hills and interesting architecture with a downtown that’s full of energy. San Rafael gives you the best of both worlds—urban attractions like the Marin County Farmers’ Market and natural escapes such as China Camp State Park.
Planning a visit to San Rafael? It’s pretty straightforward once you get a feel for the town’s layout. Downtown pulls you in with unique dining, local shops, and cultural opportunities—all walkable, which is always a plus. San Rafael also makes a great home base if you want to explore more of Marin County.
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Whether you’re after outdoor adventure, a food-focused getaway, or something artsy, San Rafael delivers—without the crowds you’ll find in bigger Bay Area spots. The welcoming vibe and mix of things to do make it perfect for weekend trips or longer stays. There’s a reason locals love this charming corner of California.
Getting to San Rafael
San Rafael sits in the middle of Marin County and is easy to reach from several directions. It’s about 18 miles north of San Francisco, so it works for day trips or as a jumping-off point for Bay Area adventures.
Proximity to Golden Gate Bridge
San Rafael is roughly 15 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge by car. Highway 101 runs straight through town and connects Marin County with San Francisco. The bridge drive? Stunning. You get views of the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the bay—one of those “wow” moments if you’re new to the area.
Heading northbound from San Francisco, there’s a toll for the Golden Gate Bridge (but not southbound). It’s all electronic—FasTrak or license plate recognition handles it.
Pro tip: Renting a car? Ask your rental company how they handle bridge tolls so you don’t get hit with surprise fees.
Transportation Options
Getting to San Rafael is pretty flexible:
By Car:
- From San Francisco: Take Highway 101 north across the Golden Gate Bridge
- From East Bay: Cross the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge on Interstate 580
- From Sacramento: Take Interstate 80 to Highway 37, then south on 101
Public Transportation:
- Marin Airporter runs from SFO to San Rafael every 30 minutes
- Golden Gate Transit buses connect San Francisco to San Rafael
- SMART Train links San Rafael with Sonoma County cities
Once you’re in town, Marin Transit’s local buses make it easy to get around. The downtown transit center makes switching between systems pretty painless.
Access from Sonoma and Sausalito
Coming from Sonoma County? Highway 101 gets you into San Rafael in about 30-45 minutes from Petaluma. Or hop on the SMART train for a relaxed ride between Sonoma County and downtown San Rafael.
Sausalito, that postcard-perfect waterfront town north of the bridge, sits just 8 miles away. You can drive it in about 15 minutes on Highway 101. Golden Gate Transit buses run between these Marin spots all day, so you don’t need a car if you’d rather not drive.
If you’re a cyclist, you can ride between Sausalito and San Rafael using the Paradise Drive loop or North-South Greenway bike paths. Heads up—some stretches mean sharing the road with cars.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Lodging
San Rafael has a range of places to stay, from big-name hotels to smaller, more unique spots. There’s something for every budget and style in the city’s different neighborhoods.
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Hotels in San Rafael
You’ll find several solid hotel options here. Embassy Suites by Hilton has spacious rooms and free breakfast—super convenient if you’re on the go. AC Hotel brings modern vibes and a stylish look that works for both business travelers and vacationers.
Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael is another safe bet, offering comfortable rooms and the usual amenities. Most of these hotels cluster near highway exits, so you can get around Marin County easily.
Need a longer stay? Extended Stay America on Francisco Boulevard East has kitchen-equipped rooms at good rates. It’s practical for anyone who wants more than just a bed and bathroom.
See all available accommodations in San Rafael, or click here to read all of our reviews on San Rafael Hotels.
San Anselmo Inn Overview
Just outside San Rafael in San Anselmo, the San Anselmo Inn offers a cozy alternative to the chains. You get a bed and breakfast feel—personal touches, friendly faces, and a sense of home you don’t always find at bigger places.
The rooms each have their own style and comfy furnishings. Breakfast is included, and they serve up fresh local ingredients that really show off Northern California’s food scene.
Staying here puts you right in downtown San Anselmo, with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants just steps away. No car needed if you want to wander the neighborhood.
See all available accommodations in San Anselmo.
Economical and Boutique Accommodation
On a budget? San Rafael’s got you covered. Motel 6 and Marin Lodge offer clean, basic rooms at wallet-friendly prices, with all the essentials and good locations.
The Panama Hotel is a standout if you want something more memorable. This historic spot has quirky décor and tons of character. Their little restaurant serves up tasty meals, and the garden patio is a great place to unwind after a day out.
North Bay San Rafael keeps things affordable and comfortable, so it’s a favorite for travelers who’d rather spend their money out exploring than on fancy lodging.
See all available budget lodging in Marin County.
Amenities: Pool, Jacuzzi, and Exercise Room
Think about what matters most to you before you book. Some hotels, like Embassy Suites and Four Points by Sheraton, have outdoor pools—perfect for those warm Marin days.
If relaxing is your thing, look for a place with a jacuzzi. Nothing beats a soak after hiking or sightseeing all day.
Into fitness? Many hotels have exercise rooms with basic cardio and weights. Embassy Suites has one of the bigger gyms, while AC Hotel keeps it simple but modern.
Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast policies can vary, so double-check the details to avoid any surprises when you arrive.
Top Things to Do in San Rafael
San Rafael’s got a great mix of culture and outdoor fun. You can dive into the city’s history, check out the art scene, or just soak in the relaxed Marin County vibe.
Cultural Sites and Attractions
The Mission San Rafael Arcangel is a classic historic landmark. Founded in 1817, it offers a peek into California history with a restored chapel and a small museum.
The Marin County Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, stands out with its blue roof and unusual architecture. You can wander through on a self-guided tour during the week—it’s a National Historic Landmark, so architecture buffs shouldn’t miss it.
China Camp State Park is where history meets nature. Once a Chinese shrimp-fishing village, it now has hiking trails, beaches, and a small museum sharing the story of the people who lived there.
The Marin History Museum brings the county’s past to life with local artifacts and photos. It’s a good stop if you’re curious about how San Rafael got to where it is today.
Local Arts and Entertainment
Downtown San Rafael hums with cultural energy. The San Rafael City Plaza, with its water-wall fountain, is a favorite meeting spot—snap a photo, then head out to explore nearby shops and restaurants.
Art Works Downtown is a creative hub with galleries, artist studios, and even apartments for artists. This nonprofit space hosts regular exhibits and events that spotlight local talent. Four galleries rotate new shows every month, so there’s always something fresh to see.
The Museum of International Propaganda is a bit offbeat but worth a look. It’s packed with political posters and artifacts from around the world, offering a thought-provoking look at how governments shape opinion.
Looking for a movie? The Rafael Film Center is a beautifully restored 1938 theater showing indie and foreign films. The classic setting adds a little old-school glamour to your night out.
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Exploring Nature and Outdoor Activities
San Rafael is a gateway to Northern California’s outdoors, with something for everyone—whether you want a scenic drive, a hike, or just some fresh air.
Scenic Drives and Shoreline Highway
The Shoreline Highway (Highway 1) is one of California’s most breathtaking coastal drives. From San Rafael, head west to Point Reyes for dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and Pacific views. The coast is about 30 minutes away, but honestly, you’ll want to make a day of it and stop along the way.
Stinson Beach is a great picnic or beach walk spot. The Muir Beach Overlook gives you incredible photo ops of the coastline. If you’re here in winter or spring, keep an eye out—sometimes you’ll spot migrating whales from the roadside pullouts.
Want something shorter? Take Lucas Valley Road for a winding drive through oak-dotted hills and peaceful countryside, just minutes from downtown San Rafael.
Hiking Near San Rafael
China Camp State Park hugs the eastern edge of San Rafael and lays out over 15 miles of trails for all kinds of hikers. The Shoreline Trail is a breeze—flat, easy, with those classic bay views. Want more of a workout? The Bay View Trail climbs up to the ridgeline for some truly sweeping vistas.
If you’re looking for something in the middle, the 3.7-mile Turtle Back Loop delivers great views of San Pablo Bay. Oak woodlands offer plenty of shade, so even during summer, hiking here stays pretty comfortable.
Mount Tamalpais State Park is just a quick 20-minute drive from San Rafael and has more challenging trails if you’re up for it. The Matt Davis-Steep Ravine Loop (7 miles) takes you through redwood groves and out to ocean views. Don’t forget extra water and a couple layers—the coast can surprise you with sudden weather shifts.
Visit to Marin Headlands
The Marin Headlands, about 25 minutes south of San Rafael, offers some of the most spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. Drive up to Battery Spencer for that classic bridge shot you see everywhere. It’s even better in person.
Take the Coastal Trail for dramatic cliffs and endless ocean. The Tennessee Valley Trail (2.5 miles) winds down to a tucked-away beach—nice spot for a quiet afternoon. If you’re into history, you can poke around old military sites like the Nike Missile Site.
The Marine Mammal Center is tucked in the Headlands too, and it’s a cool stop if you want to learn about ocean conservation. You can also visit the Point Bonita Lighthouse (open Thursday-Monday). There’s a suspension bridge out to the lighthouse—kind of thrilling, honestly—and the place has been guiding ships since 1855.
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Redwood Forests and National Parks
San Rafael makes a great jumping-off point for exploring Marin County’s redwood forests and parks. These spots are just a short drive away and offer peaceful trails, towering old trees, and some really beautiful scenery.
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is only 12 miles southwest of San Rafael. This old-growth redwood forest is famous for trees that stretch over 250 feet high and have stood for more than a thousand years.
The main trail is a flat, easy 1-mile loop along boardwalks. If you want to wander farther, the Hillside and Fern Creek trails connect to the bigger Mount Tamalpais network.
Visitor info worth knowing:
- You’ll need reservations for parking ($9) or the shuttle ($3.50 per person)
- Weekday mornings are the quietest
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset
- The visitor center has some interesting exhibits about redwoods
The cool, misty air here is perfect for the redwoods and feels like a relief on hot days.
Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Just 15 miles away, Mt. Tamalpais (locals just call it “Mt. Tam”) offers more than 60 miles of trails winding through redwoods, oak woods, and grassy hills. The mountain itself rises to 2,571 feet, so you get some pretty epic Bay Area views up top.
The Steep Ravine Trail is a favorite: mossy trees, ferns, a seasonal waterfall—honestly, it’s one of the prettiest redwood canyons around. Give yourself 2-3 hours for the moderately tough 3.5-mile loop.
Stop by the East Peak Visitor Center for trail maps and a bit of local history. On a clear day, you might even spot the Sierra Nevada way off in the distance.
Want to stay overnight?
- Pantoll Campground (first-come, first-served)
- Steep Ravine Cabins (book way in advance—they go fast!)
Nearby Olema and Nature Sites
Olema, a tiny community about 20 miles northwest of San Rafael, is the front door to Point Reyes National Seashore and all its wild beauty.
The Olema Valley Trail meanders through mixed redwood forests and links up with the bigger Point Reyes trail system. It’s a moderate 4.6-mile walk, mostly flat, and follows an old ranch road—good for almost anyone.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park is just 15 minutes from Olema. There’s a lovely creek lined with redwoods, perfect for a summer picnic. Try the Pioneer Tree Trail, a 2.7-mile loop through impressive second-growth trees.
If you’re into wildlife, swing by the Tule Elk Reserve at Tomales Point after your forest hike, especially during the fall rut (August-October). It’s a bit of a hidden gem.
Beaches and Coastal Destinations
San Rafael sits close to the Pacific, so you can hit some of Marin County’s best beaches without much hassle. These spots are perfect for escaping the city—gorgeous views, salty air, and plenty of space to unwind.
Exploring Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach is a classic coastal destination about 20 miles southwest of San Rafael. The beach stretches nearly 3 miles, so you’ll always find a spot to lay out—even on busy weekends.
The water’s swimmable in summer, but watch out for strong currents. Lifeguards are on duty from late May through September, which gives a little peace of mind.
Facilities are decent—restrooms, picnic tables, even a snack bar. The town nearby has casual restaurants and shops if you need supplies or just want a bite.
If you’re feeling energetic, the beach links up with Mount Tamalpais trails. The Dipsea Trail is a favorite for those coastal views—just be ready for a moderate workout.
Beach Town Visit: Mill Valley
Mill Valley isn’t right on the ocean, but it’s a sweet base for beach trips. This charming town is about 10 miles from San Rafael and combines easy beach access with a friendly, small-town vibe.
From here, Muir Beach is just 7 miles west—a quiet cove that’s usually less crowded than Stinson. Stop at the Muir Beach Overlook for those jaw-dropping coastal views.
Mill Valley itself is worth a stroll. Grab dinner at Bungalow 44 or a coffee at Equator Coffees before you hit the sand.
With so many beaches nearby, you can easily check out a different one each day without spending hours in the car.
Day Trips from San Rafael
San Rafael’s location puts you close to tons of great day-trip options. Within an hour, you can wander coastal towns, sip wine in the country, or explore some wild Northern California scenery. There’s really something for everyone.
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Sausalito Excursions
Sausalito is just 20 minutes south, right across the Golden Gate Bridge. This waterfront town has killer views of San Francisco Bay and a relaxed, artsy feel.
Start by wandering the main street—you’ll find art galleries, boutiques, and plenty of seafood. The Wooden Boat Tour is a fun way to see the area from the water and catch some sights you’d miss from shore.
The houseboats along Bridgeway are a must-see—colorful, quirky, and a photographer’s dream. For lunch, grab fresh seafood at a waterfront spot and watch the sailboats drift by.
Feeling active? Rent a bike for the waterfront paths or head into the Marin Headlands for a short hike and some big views.
Adventures in Sonoma
Sonoma County is only about 30 minutes north and packs in world-famous wineries, rolling hills, and charming towns.
Kick things off at the historic Sonoma Plaza, ringed by tasting rooms, restaurants, and little shops. Depending on the season, you might catch a farmers market or a wine festival.
Some top Sonoma wineries:
- Benziger Family Winery (they’re big on sustainability)
- Buena Vista (California’s oldest premium winery)
- Gloria Ferrer (bubbles lovers, this one’s for you)
Sonoma isn’t just about wine. You can hike through redwoods or head out to the rugged coast. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is a great alternative to the busier parks if you want some peace among the giants.
If you love good food, Sonoma’s farm-to-table restaurants serve up fresh, local menus that show off the region’s best flavors.
Travel Tips for Visitors
To get the most out of your San Rafael visit, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some quick tips that might make your trip smoother.
Planning Your Trip
Renting a car is usually your best bet for exploring San Rafael and Marin County. Public transit exists, but it’s spotty in some areas.
Always pack layers. Even summer mornings can be chilly and foggy, but the sun usually burns through by afternoon.
Downtown parking can get tricky during the workday. Check for public garages on 3rd and 4th Streets, or use metered parking (it’s free after 6pm and on Sundays).
If you want a taste of local life, swing by the downtown farmers market on Thursday evenings (April-September). There’s fresh produce, food trucks, and usually some live music—it’s a fun scene.
If you’re relying on buses, download the Marin Transit app to check schedules. Route 233 will get you from downtown to the Transit Center without any hassle.
Seasonal Considerations
San Rafael’s got that classic Mediterranean climate—think sunny stretches, mild winters, and each season shaping your visit in its own way.
Summer (June-August) usually means warm, bright days, with temps hovering between 75-85°F. It’s the busiest time, so if you’re into festivals or love the buzz, you’ll fit right in. Just brace yourself for bigger crowds at the popular spots.
Fall (September-November) feels a bit more relaxed. The weather stays pleasant, especially in September and October, often hanging out in the 70s. Fewer tourists, too, so you might snag better deals or just enjoy a quieter vibe.
Winter (December-February) is when the rain shows up. If you’re planning a trip then, toss some waterproof stuff in your bag. Still, it doesn’t get too cold—rarely below 45°F—which is honestly pretty manageable.
Spring (March-May) is when things really pop. The parks nearby burst with wildflowers, and temperatures settle into a comfy 65-75°F range. April and May, in particular, are sweet spots before the summer rush kicks in.
If you’re not a fan of heat, maybe skip the outdoors during July or August afternoons. It can get a bit much even for locals.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
