Search
Global map iconGlobal map
San Rafael

San Rafael, CA, USA

San Rafael

Destination illustration
San Rafael

San Rafael in California is like stepping into a postcard-perfect town with its charming downtown area, beautiful hiking trails, and stunning views of Mount Tamalpais. Kick back and relax at a trendy café, shop at local boutiques, or explore the nearby Marin County Civic Center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This is the ultimate destination for a laid-back and enjoyable getaway!

From the Community

katherinebeard avatar
katherinebeard
russelluresti avatar
russelluresti
PeterTaras avatar
PeterTaras
PeterTaras avatar
PeterTaras
karen avatar
karen
karen avatar
karen
thedailygrog avatar
thedailygrog
karen avatar
karen
mgms avatar
mgms
bonjournal avatar
bonjournal
opticjournalist avatar
opticjournalist
DUCO avatar
DUCO
LitaJen avatar
LitaJen
helloomirandaaa avatar
helloomirandaaa
JoshuaJanuardy avatar
JoshuaJanuardy
peregh avatar
peregh
kylepeters avatar
kylepeters
carapacexcustom avatar
carapacexcustom
05mm avatar
05mm
karen avatar
karen

Recommendations

Outdoor4.7/5

China Camp State Park

Welcome to China Camp State Park, a hidden gem nestled in San Rafael, CA! This charming park boasts stunning trails, perfect for hiking or biking, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Don't forget your camera - you might spot some adorable California native wildlife! With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and outdoor adventures, China Camp State Park guarantees a fun-filled day for all nature enthusiasts.

Outdoor4.2/5

Terra Linda Community Center and Pool

Landmark4.5/5

Marinwood Community Center

Nestled in the charming town of San Rafael, Marinwood Community Center is a vibrant hub for locals and travelers alike. From fitness classes to craft fairs, this lively spot on 775 Miller Creek Rd has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the fun - come and join the community!

Landmark4.7/5

San Rafael Pacifics

Step right up to the San Rafael Pacifics, where baseball meets a boisterous atmosphere at 1201 Second St! Experience thrilling games, delicious ballpark snacks, and the vibrant energy of the crowd. This charming independent league team serves up family-friendly fun and unforgettable moments—perfect for a sunny afternoon or a lively evening out in San Rafael! ⚾️🎉

Shop4.2/5

Montecito Plaza

Montecito Plaza, nestled in the heart of San Rafael, is an iconic destination featuring unique shops, vibrant eateries, and serene landscapes, making it a perfect locale for leisurely strolls and community gatherings.

Eat$$$4.6/5

Sol Food

Located in the heart of San Rafael, Sol Food is a vibrant Puerto Rican restaurant serving up authentic flavors and lively atmosphere. From juicy plantains to savory empanadas, every bite is a taste of the Caribbean. Don't miss their iconic Cubano sandwich! Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Sol Food is a must-visit spot for foodies exploring Marin County.

Eat$$$4.6/5

Il Davide

Eat$$$$4.5/5

Vin

Vin, located on 4th Street in San Rafael, offers a blend of exquisite wines and artisanal dishes in a cozy, vibrant setting, making it a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts alike.

Eat$$4.4/5

Pizzalina - San Anselmo

At Pizzalina in San Anselmo, savor artisanal pizzas crafted from fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, inviting atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for both pizza aficionados and families alike.

Eat4.5/5

Café Arrivederci

Café Arrivederci in San Rafael is an iconic gem known for its authentic Italian cuisine, warm ambiance, and friendly service, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and locals alike.

Eat$$$4.3/5

Los Moles Hecho En Casa

Eat$$4.5/5

Johnny Doughnuts

Stays

Stay4.6/5

Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn

Stay4.35/5

Courtyard by Marriott Novato Marin/Sonoma

Stay4.05/5

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael at Marin Center

Stay3.9/5

North Bay Inn

North Bay Inn offers charming accommodations with stunning views of San Francisco Bay, making it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of Marin County's vibrant landscape.

Stay3.8/5

Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael Marin County

Welcome to Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael Marin County! Located in the vibrant city of San Rafael, our hotel is the perfect retreat for adventurous travelers. With comfortable rooms, a refreshing pool, and delicious dining options, your stay with us will be an unforgettable experience. Plus, we're conveniently located near popular attractions like Marinwood Plaza and the Marinwood Market. Get ready for a fun-filled getaway right here at Four Points!

Stay3.45/5

Americas Best Value Inn Novato Marin Sonoma

Stay3.45/5

Marinwood Inn & Suites

Welcome to Marinwood Inn & Suites, where comfort meets convenience in Novato, CA! Enjoy spacious rooms, free breakfast, and a sparkling outdoor pool. Conveniently located near popular attractions like Marin Museum of Contemporary Art and Pacheco Plaza, this hotel is the perfect home base for your California adventure. Book your stay now for a memorable experience!

Stay3.15/5

Inn Marin and Suites, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Welcome to Inn Marin and Suites, where California dreams come true! This quirky hotel, located at 250 Entrada Dr in Novato, CA, is the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. With spacious rooms, a sparkling swimming pool, and delicious breakfast options, you'll be ready to explore the beautiful coastal scenery just minutes away. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime at Inn Marin and Suites!

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5
3 h

Classic Sidecar Tour of San Francisco

Welcome to the most side-splitting San Francisco adventure! Buckle up for a classic sidecar ride, where you'll feel like a superhero with the wind in your hair. It's a duo delight - one person's in the sidecar, feeling like a VIP, while the other's behind the pilot, plotting world domination (or just selfies). We'll hit all the hotspots! ,Lombard Street, where even cars question their driving skills. Next, we'll zip through Chinatown, where the fortune cookies write back! Hold on tight as we cross the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. It's so iconic; even pigeons strut on it. In between laughs, we'll pause at the Painted Ladies, where houses compete in a beauty pageant. The hills are alive with the sound of tourists yelling "Whee!"Pro tip: Don't forget to tip your driver, the comedic genius behind the wheel. If you're not laughing, you might be napping, and that's just unacceptable! So join us on this sidesplitting city tour. Now remember when you see the price, they take 25% fees!

$280.00
More
5/5
3 h

Private Muir Woods Tour + Golden Gate Bridge Stops (3 Hrs, Max 6)

Your entertaining tour guide will drive you north over the Golden Gate Bridge to walk among the giant redwoods trees in Muir Woods National Monument, view the Pacific Ocean, and a stop in the bayside town of Sausalito. Drive over the Golden Gate Bridge to beautiful Marin County. Stop at Golden Gate Bridge overlook. Then onward to the Muir Woods National Monument home of the giant redwood trees. Your visit inside the park is self-guided. Your guide will pick you up at the agreed-upon time. Time inside the park is generally 45 minutes to 1 hour. Time permitting stop at Muir Beach overlook on the Pacific Ocean. Drive through the bayside town of Sausalito. Our Jeeps fit up to 4 adults and 2 children. The 3rd row seating is perfect for children and teens.

$203.00
More
5/5
3 h

Private San Francisco Open-Air Jeep Tour (3 Hours, Max 6)

See the San Francisco sights you want to see in an open-air convertible Jeep, at a pace that suits your group. Enjoy this 3-hour exploration that includes a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge! This tour covers most of the city's highlights, including the Golden Gate Bridge. Also on the route is a drive down Lombard Street (depending on traffic) and time in Golden Gate Park or Ocean Beach. Guests can choose additional stops including the Mission District Murals or a enjoy a spectacular bay view from Coit Tower on top of Telegraph Hill. NOTE: Price is per jeep, NOT per person. Our Jeeps fit up to 4 adults and 2 children. The 3rd row seating is perfect for children and teens.

$273.00
More
5/5
3 h

San Francisco City Tour in EV Volkswagen Van

A specially crafted, luxury tour developed to ensure guests experience as much of San Francisco as 3 short hours will allow. Local, expert guides will drive you through the city in all-electric VW ID Buzz Vans, sharing relevant historical facts and personal anecdotes along the way. This tour is purpose-built to provide a comfortable and comprehensive deep dive into as much of San Francisco as possible during your short visit to our city.

$95.00
More
5/5

Private Guided Tour in San Francisco

A Grand Tour of San Francisco, a unique experience with a walk on the Golden Gate Bridge! Discover the most beautiful residential areas where Victorian houses succeed with the most famous of them: Painted Ladies. Passage through the Haight & Ashbury neighborhood where you enter the history and dream of the hippie movement. Experienced French-speaking, local and independent professional guide. Possibility to make other visits according to your choice

$435.00
More
5/5
1 h

Hire a San Francisco Family Photographer | Chris Conner

You're not just booking a photographer—you're choosing an experience that will become one of the highlights of your San Francisco visit. Whether you're celebrating a family vacation, surprise proposal, engagement, anniversary, or simply spending time together, I'll create a relaxed, personalized experience that's as memorable as the photographs themselves. As a long-time Bay Area photographer, I'll help you discover the perfect location, lighting, and timing to create an unforgettable San Francisco experience—from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Every session is thoughtfully tailored to your personality, style, and vision. Clients often tell me they arrived feeling nervous but left saying, "That was fun." That's exactly what I hope you'll say too. My goal isn't just to deliver beautiful photographs—it's to create unforgettable San Francisco experiences, one photo session at a time, leaving you with photographs—and memories—you'll treasure long after your visit.

$325.00
More
5/5

Private Open Air Van Tour: San Francisco City Experience

Explore San Francisco's most popular neighborhoods in our private open-air vans. Great for families, cruise ship guests and small groups Duration: 2 - 3 Hours (7 people MAX) Location: Our open-air minibus tour departs daily from Fisherman's Wharf Choose between our 2 OR 3 hour experience to explore San Francisco on our open air vehicles that let you take in the sites and sounds of the city for a more intimate experience. 2 Hour -Lombard Street (The Crooked Street) -Coit Tower *Photo Stop -Chinatown -North Beach (Little Italy) -Fisherman's Wharf -Golden Gate Bridge *Photo Stop -Palace of Fine Arts *Photo Stop - The Marina -Presidio -Pacific Heights *Photo Stop -Mrs. Doubtfire's House 3 Hour everything on 2 Hour tour plus: -Painted Ladies (Full House house) *Photo Stop -Haight Ashbury -City Hall -Nob Hill

$399.00
More
5/5
7 h

Private Full-Day San Francisco City Tour + Muir Woods 7 hr, Max 6

Muir Woods in the morning and City Tour in the afternoon In the Morning: Start in Fisherman's Wharf then over the Golden Gate Bridge North to the Muir Woods National Monument to see the giant redwoods. Your visit inside the park is self-guided. Your guide will be waiting for you after your park visit. Stop at Muir Beach Overlook to catch a view of the Pacific Ocean. Stop in the bayside town of Sausalito. A quick stop for grab-and-go lunch in Sausalito Stop at Golden Gate Bridge overlook on the way back to san Francisco In the Afternoon: Two to Three-hour San Francisco tours cover many of the major sites: Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, Presidio, Golden Gate Park, Twin Peaks, Chinatown, Lombard Street (traffic permitting), Coit Tower, and North Beach (“Little Italy”). Our Jeeps fit up to 4 adults and 2 children. The 3rd row seating is perfect for children and teens.

$417.00
More
5/5
6 h

Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine 6 hour Tour from San Francisco

Be whisked away by private vehicle to the Napa and Sonoma valleys on a personalized, 6-hour wine tour. You'll benefit from a customizable itinerary, which makes for an unforgettable excursion in this premier wine region of Northern California, located just 45 miles north of San Francisco. Pricing is per group, based on a maximum of six people; wine tasting fees not included.

$612.00
More
5/5
8 h

San Francisco, Golden Gate, Sausalito and Muir Woods Private Tour

Embark on an exclusive private tour of San Francisco, Golden Gate, Sausalito & Muir Woods where every moment is yours to shape! Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, and customize your Sausalito experience – be it shopping, gallery hopping, or a leisurely waterfront lunch. Venture into the ancient redwoods of Muir Woods, choosing the pace of your exploration. This isn't just a tour; it's your personalized journey. Tailor each stop to your interests, guided by our experienced concierge. Whether you crave culture, nature, or iconic landmarks, every detail is crafted to suit your preferences. Engage with the vibrant spirit of San Francisco and create memories that resonate with your travel dreams. Flexibility and exclusivity define this private adventure – your way. Book now to discover San Francisco, Golden Gate, Sausalito & Muir Woods on a tour designed uniquely for you!

$990.00
More
5/5
3 h 30 mins

Catch and Cook Crabbing Experience under Golden Gate Bridge SF

A hands-on coastal experience awaits with the Bay Area Guided Crab Snaring Trip. This 3.5-hour adventure teaches you the art of catching Dungeness and rock crabs using top-rated Durasnare gear while soaking up the stunning Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Enjoy personalized instruction from experienced guides, who ensure you learn to rig, bait, and cast a crab snare like a pro. The excitement doesn’t stop at catching; savor a full catch-and-cook experience where your catch is cleaned and prepared for you right on-site or for you to take home. Perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, this trip offers a memorable day on the water. No fishing license or experience is required. All equipment will be provided with the purchase of this trip.

$150.00
More
5/5
8 h

Picture your best SF tour ever! (Epic Bay Area photo adventures)

THIS IS THE OPPOSITE OF A PACKAGED TOUR. It's a private, customized journey through our most unique and iconic scenery. Along the way, I'll show you how to get great photos you can share and frame. * * * DON'T HAVE A FULL DAY? You can book the 4-HOUR OPTION and still see tons of amazing stuff! *** This is for people who want to see what really makes San Francisco the most spectacular city in the world — its natural surroundings! We can hike, bike, trail run, or even just drive to awesome places if you're not feeling energetic. Along the way, I'll show you how to take killer pictures using just the phone in your pocket. I'll create our itinerary based on your interests, how active you want to get, and what the weather's doing that day. In the winter, we can see waterfalls in misty redwood forests. In the spring, green hills full of wildflowers. In the summer, fog rolling in off the ocean. And in the fall, incandescent sunsets over crashing waves. It's awesome all year round!

$600.00
More
5/5
2 h

City Cruises San Francisco: Signature Lunch Cruise

Come aboard and indulge in a 2-hour buffet lunch cruise around the San Francisco Bay. Pass by the iconic sites like Alcatraz Island and the city skyline, and then cruise under the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge. This lunch cruise is a perfect option for touring the bay with friends, family and co-workers.

$74.53
More
5/5

8-Hour Private Wine Tour Experience for up to 6 Guests - San Francisco to Sonoma

A truly great trip to California wine country is an immersive experience, and no amount of studying or expert certifications can match the expertise and insider access provided by a local guide. With Wine Country Confidential, you get: • Priceless stories only a wine country local would know • Tours personalized according to your personal preferences and expectations • Treks through vineyards, showcasing where great wine is born • Itineraries that include both big-name wineries and small, limited-production cult wineries producing wines that rarely – if ever – leave the valley • Entry into private wineries that aren’t generally open to the public

$810.00
More
5/5
3 h

Iconic San Francisco Urban Hiking Tour

See epic views of the iconic sites of San Francisco’s northern neighborhoods in this 5-mile small-group, locally-led urban hike that takes you from city sidewalks to park trails ending in a local-favorite, truly-SF neighborhood with plenty of food and drink options for after the tour. Learn about life in San Francisco while understanding how history shaped the urban landscape we experience today – from the battles over bike lanes to the private enclave off the city grid – shared with humor and realism. Get top tips from your guide on other authentic San Francisco experiences to make your visit unique. She has seen it all and can help you discover the best San Francisco for you. We’ll cover about 450 feet of elevation gain over gradual hills at a moderate pace with lots of opportunities for photos. Good walking shoes and layers are all you'll need.

$49.00
More
5/5

Private Group Wine Tour of Napa and Sonoma

Hire a luxury SUV or 14 passengers van with a professional driver and enjoy the beauty of the Wine Country! Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and take pictures at the Vista Point near the Lone Sailor Monument! Take pictures on t and of Sonoma & Napa! Learn about the history of California and San Francisco! Taste wine! Meet people! Have great lunch in one of the hundreds of great restaurants in the wine country! Visit 2-3 out of 600 wineries! Choose yourselves or let us choose for you! Taste red, white and sparkling Californian wines! Learn the history of the most famous wineries! The tour lasts on average 8 to 10 hours. Return to San Francisco via the Bay Bridge.

$1,799.00
More
5/5
3 h

Private Sailboat Charter on San Francisco Bay

Moving into summer provides calm mornings and what can be a very fresh afternoon breeze. 3 hour PRIVATE Charter with a unique experience aboard Carmelita, our beautiful and pristine Catalina 42 sailboat. We provide our clients with upscale beverages and have your interest, destination and comfort in mind, while touring San Francisco Bay. Captain Christian enjoys sharing his experiences of SF Bay and Sailing with his guests. The 3 hour charter departs the unique Brickyard Cove area of Pt. Richmond. We travel West through Raccoon Straits with Angel Island to our south and Tiburon to our north. We pass by Sausalito as we travel out under the Golden Gate Bride. Then a great downwind sail. We travel down the city front past Chrissy Field, The Marina Green to Pier 39. We then head North passing Alcatraz, the south side of Angel Island and return to Pt. Richmond. We can customize and create the on the water route or experience that is a perfect fit for your group of 6 or less.

$995.00
More
5/5
3 h

3-Hour Beyond the Bridge Buggy Tour to Sausalito

Take an Epic San Francisco Electric Car Tour to the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito & Beyond Hop into GoCAR’s EV Sport and explore San Francisco’s hidden gems on a GPS-guided electric vehicle tour. Cruise through the Presidio and Crissy Field en route to the Golden Gate Bridge, then head across to the scenic waterfront town of Sausalito. Capture amazing photos of the Pacific Ocean and the bridge up close—with the option to park and walk across it. Extend your adventure with a detour into the historic Marin Headlands, featuring epic coastal roads built by the U.S. Army. Wrap up your San Francisco tour with an exciting climb up Russian Hill and an optional drive down the iconic Lombard Street, where tour buses can’t go.

$279.00
More
5/5

Private San Francisco City Tour + Alcatraz (Tickets Incl., Max 6)

Our Alcatraz Ferry and Island Tour PLUS San Francisco Private Group City Tour offers an extraordinary day of discovery! Start your morning with a private tour of San Francisco’s top attractions, including iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting ferry ride to explore the rich history of Alcatraz Island. How the Alcatraz City Tour Combo Package Works: City Tour: Choose between a private 2 or 3-hour city tour, starting at 9:00 AM. Ending at 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM. Alcatraz Ferry Timing: If your Alcatraz ferry departs within 1 hour after the city tour, we'll drop you off at Pier 33 (Alcatraz Landing) 30–60 minutes before. If your ferry departs more than 1 hour later, you'll be dropped at PIER 39 to relax and eat before walking to Pier 33. Alcatraz Tour Length: The Alcatraz tour takes 2–3 hours. You can return to Pier 33 at your own pace. Important: Return transport from Pier 33 is not included; the activity ends there.

$242.00
More
5/5
1 h

Hire a San Francisco Photographer for your Bay Area vacation

You're not just booking a photographer—you're choosing an experience that can become one of the highlights of your San Francisco visit. As a long-time Bay Area photographer, I know how to match the perfect location, lighting, and time of day to your vision, creating photographs that feel natural, authentic, and uniquely San Francisco. Before your session, I'll personally help you plan the details, from selecting the ideal location to offering wardrobe recommendations, so you can simply relax and enjoy the experience. Every session is thoughtfully tailored to your personality and style, allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally. Clients often tell me they arrived feeling nervous but left saying, "That was fun." That's exactly what I hope you'll say too. My goal isn't just to deliver beautiful photographs—it's to create an experience and memories you'll treasure long after your visit.

$325.00
More

Map

Plan your Trip to San Rafael

Create a trip and start adding the places you want to visit in San Rafael

Navigate

Similar Destinations

Photo of Napa Valley
Napa Valley
Napa Valley, CA, USA
Photo of Sausalito
Sausalito
Sausalito, CA , USA
Photo of Sonoma
Sonoma
Sonoma, CA , USA