Things To Do
in San Rafael
San Rafael sits across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge from San Francisco Bay, offering a charming mix of historic downtown, waterfront views, and easy access to Marin County nature. The town is walkable in its core, with galleries, cafes, and a riverfront vibe that appeals to locals and visitors alike. It serves as a gateway to parks and trails like Mount Tamalpais and China Camp.
The climate is mild, with foggy mornings and sunny afternoons in the warmer months, making outdoor exploration comfortable year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café like the Marin Coffee Roasters, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of downtown San Rafael, taking in the historic architecture and vibrant murals. Don't forget to visit the Marin History Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
For lunch, head to the popular Marinwood Market for some gourmet sandwiches and local produce. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Mission San Rafael Arcángel, where you can appreciate its beautiful gardens and intriguing history. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk at the picturesque China Camp State Park, enjoying views of the San Pablo Bay.
As the sun sets, dine at the elegant Il Davide, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and extensive wine list. Following dinner, catch a local performance at the Marin Civic Center, where you can experience live music or a theatrical production. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, basking in the serene atmosphere.
Begin your day at Marinwood Community Center, where you can grab a quick breakfast before heading to Stinson Beach, just a short drive away. Enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze as you set up your beach gear and take a leisurely walk along the shore. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the bay.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach with sandwiches from a nearby deli. Spend your afternoon sunbathing or playing beach volleyball with friends and family. If you're up for it, take a scenic hike on the nearby Dipsea Trail for breathtaking views of the coastline.
As evening approaches, enjoy a casual beachfront dinner at the famous Parkside Café, where you can savor fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. Cap off your day with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚍One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-230 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and easy access to nature in Marin County
- Casual, walkable downtown with shops and dining
- Traffic on Highway 101 can be congested during peak hours
- Rising costs of living and dining; limited big-city nightlife compared to SF
Places to Visit in San Rafael
Visit one of these nice places.
The Frank Lloyd Wright–designed building and surrounding grounds offer dramatic lines, reflections, and bright glass atriums.
Historic mission with an intimate courtyard and classic architecture ideal for silhouettes at golden hour.
Elegant grounds and historic building with flowering trees, perfect for portraits and architectural shots.
Colorful street art and murals along 3rd/4th Streets and the canal area for urban photography.
Coastal scenery, boats, and rustic shoreline for sunset photography near the bay.
Food in San Rafael
San Rafael Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring local Dungeness crab, commonly found at coastal eateries and seafood markets in Marin.
Must-Try!
Seasonal salmon served with greens from Marin farms, often finished with citrus or herb sauces.
Caesar salad made with locally sourced greens and croutons from neighborhood bakers.
Creamy chowder served in a toasty sourdough bowl, a Bay Area favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Sunday market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts near downtown San Rafael.
Temporary food stalls offering quick bites on select evenings in downtown San Rafael.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and 'please' and 'thank you' go a long way; wait your turn in lines; keep noise considerate in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in San Rafael
Ensure a smooth experience
15-20% in restaurants; tables or counter service; rounding up at cafes is common.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors; some places accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoming gardens; showers are possible, pack a light rain jacket.
Warm days but often with coastal fog in the morning; bring sunscreen and a hat.
Dry and sunny days with cool evenings; great for outdoor activities.
Rainy season with chilly mornings; layering is essential.
San Rafael at Night
Hiking in San Rafael
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal and woodland trails with easy to moderate difficulty.
Panoramic ridge hikes with sweeping Bay views.
Iconic redwood forest trails just a short drive away.
Ridge trails with native plant life and views of the bay.
Airports
How to reach San Rafael by plane.
About 25-40 miles south of San Rafael; accessible by car or regional transit.
Approximately 25-35 miles southeast; convenient for domestic flights.
Approximately 40-60 miles north; smaller flights and rental car access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Marin County with strong school systems and outdoor-oriented lifestyles.
Commuters and remote workers who value proximity to SF and outdoor recreation.
Active retiree communities drawn to the scenic landscape and slower pace.
Access to Bay Area universities and educational resources in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Marin County is renowned for road and mountain biking with lots of scenic routes.
Common in schools and local clubs; fields across the area.
Several public and private courses in the area offer easy access to outdoor play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Rafael.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie bowls, seasonal salads, and dairy-free choices; ask for no meat stock and ample vegetables.