Best hotels in San Rafael
Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Larkspur Landing
2500 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur, CA, 94939
Just a few minutes southwest of San Rafael, this Marin County Marriott is ideal if you want to leave your rental car behind for the day and take the Larkspur ferry over to San Francisco. Business travelers will appreciate the ergonomic workstations, complimentary Wi-Fi and conference venues, while leisure visitors are in a prime California location.
Panama Hotel
4 Bayview St, CA, 94901
Expect a friendly welcome at this B&B only a short way from the creek and Gerstle Park. Make the most of the ever-present Cali sunshine on your private patio or balcony, then retire to a room with character – all of the Panama’s rooms have their own flourishes.
Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael Marin County
1010 Northgate Dr, CA, 94903
A couple of miles from Downtown, this Sheraton has an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, ideal for sunny day relaxation. Rooms are modern and well-furnished, and the al fresco options extend to a dining patio and firepit.
Best restaurants in San Rafael
Lou’s Takeaway
621A Del Ganado Rd, CA, 94903
A tiny spot that punches well above its weight, Lou’s is big on flavor and locally sourced ingredients. Drop by for drive thru delights such as ginger-fried chicken cutlet with spicy Sichuan peppercorn shake or pork belly with a black vinegar caramel sauce.
Bogie’s Too
1335 4th St, CA, 94901
This much-loved local stalwart parlays the owner’s obsession with Humphrey Bogart into superb diner food, including the best eggs benedict in town. Old film posters adorn the walls, while the kitchen churns out superb sandwiches, burgers and breakfasts.
Flatiron
724 B St, CA, 94901
A relaxed sports bar packed with screens and retro arcade games; Flatiron doesn’t neglect the hungry fan. Catch the game while polishing off coconut shrimp, their trademark chili lime cauliflower and truffle garlic fries. Tacos, wings and sliders round off the superior pub-food offering.
What to do in San Rafael
Marin County Civic Center
3501 Civic Center, Peter Behr Dr, CA, 94903
Fans of Frank Lloyd Wright’s career and architecture should make a beeline to this notable San Rafael building, his last-ever paid commission. It’s arresting from the outside, thanks to its playful roof design, while the interior is best explored with a docent.
San Quentin Beach
23 Main St, San Quentin, CA, 94964
Four miles southeast of San Rafael is this lovely stretch of beach, close to the prison of the same name. Don’t let that put you off – this petite but gorgeous spot is popular with dog walkers and sunbathers, with the dramatic backdrop of the San Rafael-Richmond bridge, gentle waves and warm water.
Mount Tamalpais State Park
3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA, 94941
Mount Tamalpais rises to the west of San Rafael, a Marin County state park full of beautiful oak and redwood forests. It stretches for over 6,000 acres and hikes will love the 60+ miles of trails. Reach the peak of ‘Mt. Tam’ and you’ll be 2,571 feet up, with views to treasure.