San Rafael

Day Trips

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.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for an exciting hiking adventure. Head to Mount Tamalpais State Park, where you can choose from various trails based on your skill level and interests. As you hike, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Bay Area and the lush natural surroundings.

After a rewarding hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints within the park, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend your afternoon exploring the park further or visiting the nearby Muir Woods National Monument, where you can walk among the towering redwoods. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the awe-inspiring landscapes.

As the day winds down, head back to San Rafael for a well-deserved dinner at the trendy The Spinnaker, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Relax and unwind as you enjoy an array of delicious seafood dishes. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the serene ambiance of the evening.

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café, then head to the Marin History Museum to delve into the local heritage and culture. Explore the exhibits showcasing the history of Marin County and its indigenous peoples. Afterward, make your way to the nearby San Rafael Pacifics Baseball Museum to learn about the beloved local baseball team.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local eatery featuring farm-to-table cuisine, embracing the region’s fresh ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art to appreciate thought-provoking art installations and exhibits. Engage with local artists and perhaps even participate in a hands-on workshop.

Conclude your cultural day with dinner at a fine dining restaurant, indulging in creative dishes inspired by local flavors. Attend a local art gallery opening or a cultural event happening in the area for a vibrant evening experience. Finish your night with a leisurely walk through the downtown area, taking in the lively atmosphere.

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at a charming bistro before embarking on a wine tasting adventure in nearby Marin County. Visit the renowned Marinwood Winery, where you can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. Sample a variety of wines while enjoying the scenic views of the rolling hills.

After a morning of tasting, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant that pairs its menu with local wines. Spend your afternoon visiting additional wineries in the area, such as Point Reyes Vineyard and Winery, to sample their unique offerings. Engage with winemakers and discover the stories behind their artisanal wines.

As the sun sets, head back to San Rafael for dinner at a local restaurant that features an extensive wine list. Enjoy a delightful meal with friends, sharing your favorite wine discoveries from the day. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk through downtown, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local bar.

Start with a family-friendly breakfast at a popular café in Marin Country Mart, where you can enjoy delicious pancakes and fresh fruit. After breakfast, explore the unique shops and boutiques, allowing the kids to find fun souvenirs. Don’t miss the art installations and playground areas that are perfect for children.

For lunch, indulge in some gourmet food trucks that offer a variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate. Spend your afternoon enjoying family activities, such as mini-golf or visiting the local petting zoo. Capture the fun moments with plenty of family photos throughout the day.

As the day winds down, choose a casual family-friendly restaurant for dinner, where you can relax and unwind. Enjoy the outdoor seating and perhaps treat the kids to some ice cream for dessert. End the day with a movie night at the nearby theater, catching the latest family-friendly flick.

Kick off your morning with breakfast at your hotel or a local café, energizing yourself for a day of outdoor exploration. Head to Marin Headlands, where you can hike along breathtaking coastal trails with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Take your time to stop and appreciate the wildlife and unique flora along the way.

For lunch, have a picnic at one of the scenic viewpoints in the Headlands, enjoying the fresh air and magnificent scenery. Continue your adventure by exploring the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse, where you can learn about its fascinating history. Spend the rest of the afternoon either hiking more trails or visiting the nearby historic military sites.

As evening approaches, return to San Rafael for dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant, celebrating the region’s flavors. After dinner, take a stroll along the scenic bay, watching the sunset paint the sky in warm hues. Cap off your day with a visit to a local brewery for a nightcap and a taste of local craft beers.

Start your day at the Marin Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, artisan goods, and local delicacies. Enjoy breakfast from one of the market vendors, sampling farm-fresh eggs or baked goods. Take your time exploring the stalls and chatting with local farmers and artisans.

After the market, take a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to create dishes using the fresh ingredients you just purchased. Enjoy the delicious meal you prepare together during the cooking class, sharing stories and techniques. Spend some time visiting local shops to find unique culinary tools and gourmet ingredients.

End your culinary day with a gourmet dinner at a top-rated restaurant specializing in seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine. Savor the flavors of Marin County as you enjoy a beautifully crafted meal. Afterward, if time permits, join a food tour to discover hidden gems and local favorites in the San Rafael dining scene.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the iconic Marin Civic Center for a guided architectural tour. Explore the stunning grounds designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and learn about the history and significance of this landmark. Take time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and gardens surrounding the center.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a café within the Civic Center, taking advantage of the beautiful views. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Marinwood Plaza, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy local art. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the surrounding trails.

As the day winds down, have dinner at a nearby restaurant offering a mix of local and international cuisine. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Marin Center, enjoying a concert or a theatrical show. Finish the night with a relaxing stroll around the beautifully lit Civic Center grounds.