Top 15 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In San Rafael, California - Updated 2024

Sonia
Sonia 
Updated
| 4 min read

The city of San Rafael in California is located in the North Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. You will find a wide diversity of natural habitats from forests at the higher elevations to marshland and estuarine settings. If you are planning to visit this place, be prepared to have lots of fun and to gather new experiences. For all the lovers of history and art, San Rafael has a number of art galleries and museums that you can visit and get immersed in through the richness of the collections. Some of the notable art galleries and museums are Marin History Museum, Museum of International Propaganda and Art Works Downtown. Enjoy the fascinating and enthralling nightlife of San Rafael in these bars and clubs - Pint Size Lounge, Flatiron and Lighthouse Bar & Grill amongst various others. There are also a number of restaurants catering to your hunger needs such as Sol Food Puerto Rican Cuisine and Green Chile Kitchen.

What are you waiting for? Read on to find some of the best Airbnb vacation rentals that we have put together for you.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 05, 2024.

1. Waterfront hideaway with superb amenities (from USD 363)

With its all-original architecture and 5-star amenities, it’s impossible not to feel right at home at this mid-century hideaway. The unique home sits right at a little cove in San Rafael Creek and features a 12-foot (3.66-meter) window to admire the waterfront vista from the inside. Its interior feels grand and cozy because of the gourmet kitchen, floor heating, and gas fireplace. Both offline and online amenities are available, with fast WiFi, a piano, and a wireless sound system as the available options.

While the indoors are inviting, the true star of the property is its large deck featuring a year-round outdoor pool and bubbling hot tub. This area is also the perfect spot to witness some California wildlife.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
10.7 km (6.7 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
437 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 4 Beds 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we spent most of our time on the deck enjoying the view pool and spa
gorgeous spacious home with a terrific kitchen and stunning outdoor space
gorgeous deck really thoughtful decor an excellent kitchen that was fully stocked no tv (which is great for unplugging
everything was clean and comfortable the heated floors were wonderful and the hottub heated up very quickly
we loved the pool and the hot tub the board games and the decks of cards
Cleanliness:
it’s clean and cozy
the rooms are clean and nicely decorated
everything was super clean and check in/out was very easy
the home was super clean and everything was as advertised
great amenities quiet clean and spacious
Host:
the home is just gorgeous and the hosts were excellent
jana and peter were thoughtful helpful and wonderful hosts
peter was very communicative and helpful
amazing place and wonderful hosts thank you jana and peter we enjoyed our stay at your beautiful house
they were very accommodating and we’re very thankful for a great stay
Location:
absolutely stunning location and excellent value
great location to explore the north bay
beautiful house in a great location
the location was perfect for us
unique home great location outside of san francisco
Read more reviews

2. Strategically located home ideal for couples

Couples or small families searching for a quiet but strategically located home in San Rafael can consider this studio apartment. Through the private entrance, guests will find themselves on a furnished brick patio, a welcoming spot to savor a fresh brew. The sleek indoor space is adorned with functional fittings, including a TV and WiFi. Kid-friendly amenities such as a travel crib, children’s dinnerware, and toys can also be provided if needed.

You can always whip something delectable here as there is a full kitchen. However, if you feel like relishing the local cuisine, head out to explore the downtown area, which is brimming with quaint cafes and restaurants.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
10.29 km (6.4 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
238 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed is comfortable and the wifi worked great for my google meet video calls
comfortable bed functional kitchen and bathroom washer and dryer sizable closet
highly recommended jennifer's airbnb is cozy quiet and has all the amenities you might need
i worked remotely during my week-long stay and the wifi was great no issues
i appreciated the washer/dryer full kitchen comfy bed and the treats
Cleanliness:
so clean and comfortable
very clean modern well stocked
the apartment is super clean and well stocked
very clean and has everything you need
very comfortable clean quiet well-appointed
Host:
owners were very helpful and kind
thank you for hosting me
jennifer was a great host very responsive and attentive
lots of nice sight-seeing & food recommendations and great communication with the host
it and is outfitted like a b & b with an extremely helpful guidebook maps and information
Location:
the location was great
a very nice location in san rafael walking distance to town and close to the main arterials
it was great walking distance to dining
loved the location san rafael is a cute town with great restaurants
very nice right at home feeling apartment close to the center of san rafael
Read more reviews

3. Diamond House (from USD 81)

If you prefer to keep things simple, why not spend your getaway in San Rafael at Diamond House? It earned its moniker from the diamond-shaped floor plan of the space. Staying in means enjoying movie nights on a smart TV and updating your social media through the provided WiFi. It’s equally conducive for remote work, with a dedicated workspace ready for use. Featuring a small private deck, you can enjoy alfresco dining.

To spice up your day, you can explore the best of downtown San Rafael, which is only a 10-minute walk away. Head to nearby sites such as Mt Tamalpais and Stinson Beach for a diverse experience.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
10.23 km (6.4 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
350 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wi-fi and television worked perfectly
it was nice having a desk/table for eating
it is a small apartment but was perfect for our needs
we appreciated the amenities offered clean rooms and the comfortable bed
the bed is super comfortable
Cleanliness:
great clean and quiet place
nice clean room
jeff's place was very clean and exactly as advertised
the apartment was very clean which we appreciated
the room was kept very clean and tidy
Host:
jeff is a great host
they also are helpful responding quickly to questions and requests
jeff and tracy are considerate and friendly hosts while still totally respecting their guests' privacy
hosts were very helpful - i would definitely recommend if in the san rafael area
the hosts are great we've stayed here six times and every stay has been wonderful
Location:
perfect location for a quick visit with friends
great private location with everything you need to be comfortable
jeff’s place was perfectly quiet and very cute next to beautiful hiking
great place located at the end of the street
quite convenient to dominican university and many of the fabulous places to hike and explore
Read more reviews

4. Cozy farmhouse with breathtaking bay views (from USD 163)

Perched on a hill, this cozy farmhouse will spoil you with breathtaking cityscapes and bay views in no time. From nearly every room, the home captures the stunning outdoor scene. When you’re not admiring the views, you can switch on the 36-inch smart TV with access to several streaming platforms. Of course, WiFi is provided for added comfort. The fully equipped kitchen and bedroom with a comfy queen-size bed make this rental more appealing.

The property sits on a 0.5-acre (0.2-hectare) farm with free-range chickens, goats, and organic gardens. You’ll meet friendly animals should you decide to visit the petting zoo. The farm is right off the city, as downtown is only within walking distance.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
8.78 km (5.5 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
145 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen was well stocked the wifi great and the view and hospitality amazing
we loved eating our breakfast on the large private deck and enjoying the view
spacious and comfortable with beautiful views
the view is fabulous the house is comfortable and well stocked
the pool was a welcome relief along with cooper there swimming border collie
Cleanliness:
the space is clean and spacious
the space is beautiful clean and thoughtful
the place was clean the kitchen well-stocked with pots pans utensils etc
it has plenty of floor space was super clean & is perfect for your fur babies
Host:
the hosts were friendly and helpful
mike and lori are wonderful and attentive hosts
very comfortable and spacious and the hosts were extremely helpful
lori and mike are fantastic hosts always willing to answer questions and give ideas
lori and mike are very friendly and helpful hosts who offer great suggestions
Location:
this is the perfect location for adventuring and exploring the san francisco area
the price and location are great and we'd definitely stay here again
wonderful location for exploring the local area (hiking coastal drives beaches and proximity to san francisco proper)
a beautiful location surrounded with a lot to see and do
we had a great time at lori and mikes the driveway is steep but the location is fantastic
Read more reviews

5. Magnificent home offering canyon views (from USD 349)

There is no place quite like this magnificent home in San Rafael. It is nestled in the west end of the Sun Valley neighbourhood and captures remarkable canyon views from the major rooms. The interior opens into an expansive deck, undeniably the best spot in the house to enjoy unimpeded sceneries and lush landscapes. A quaint rock garden awaits you should you want more outdoor recreation.

Meanwhile, indoor stays here can connect you to high-speed WiFi, keep you cozy with air-conditioning and heating, and enable you to whip up delicious meals in the stocked kitchen. Note that the base price is for six guests only, but two more extra guests are allowed for an added fee.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
9.76 km (6.1 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
157 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful views and comfortable place
the home is immaculately clean the furnishings extremely comfortable and the view stunning
so lovely beautiful view spacious rooms and comfy beds
Cleanliness:
extremely clean and comfortable
clean quiet and very comfortable
spacious clean private gorgeous view
the house is comfortable clean and very well appointed we had a great stay
lovely comfortable sparkling clean home with great views
Host:
great hosts that were responsive
lee is a wonderful host
the owner were very nice and friendly
the owner lee is a very courteous and responsive host
lee is a good host
Location:
perfect location for our trip
it was a great location and convenient
we had a great stay at this location
wonderful space and location 4 of us stayed at lee's place for a wedding at deer park villa
nice quite location with good views
Read more reviews

6. Charming and quiet Victorian home (from USD 65)

This lovely and quiet Victorian house is perfect for a couple. You get access to the well-equipped modern kitchen that has all the amenities available. You also get access to the living room that has a fireplace to keep you warm and cosy during the harsh winters. Other amenities include wireless internet, a washer, dryer and other essentials. You are close to the shopping centers, restaurants and cinema too.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
8.91 km (5.6 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
315 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
jerry and kathy were very kind and the room was nicely kept
the four-poster bed was particularly very comfortable and warm to sleep in
the bed was very comfortable and sharing the bathroom was no problem
room was nice sized and bed was comfortable
Cleanliness:
it is clean quiet and the bed is comfortable
the room was really clean and the bed was very comfortable
the place is clean and full of character
the house is very beautiful and clean
beds are comfortable and very clean
Host:
jerry was a wonderful host
host tried hard to make us feel comfortable
jerry is a fantastic host and he made us feel like at home
the facilities were good and jerry was a pleasant host
warm welcoming hosts
Location:
the location is excellent
great location in a nice neighborhood of san rafael
location is great too it was easy to walk downtown for dinner and drinks
i needed quiet and close location and it was perfect
nice cozy room in an older cute neighborhood within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants
Read more reviews

7. Small private guest house (from USD 54)

This quiet accommodation is perfect for 2 persons and is complete with all the required facilities. You can be sure that you will have a very comfortable holiday. You get access to the facilities such as the kitchen that is fully-equipped with a microwave, oven, fridge and utensils. Wireless internet and TV are also available. The location is also perfect as most of the popular places are located within a few miles.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
8.95 km (5.6 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
329 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi is spotty at best
the place does offer a sofa bed but it is still comfortable
comfortable with all the amenities you need and shops etc within walking distance if needed
it does get cold at night but joe provided a heater that warms up the whole unit
the mattress on the sofa bed was very comfortable and the space was clean
Cleanliness:
very clean with essentials
convenient clean and as described
exactly as promised -- clean and not expensive
the space is exactly as described; nothing fancy but clean and comfortable
clean and quiet basic accommodations with privacy
Host:
joe is a great host
joe was as a great host
thank you again joe for being a gracious host
joe is a great host quick to respond
joe is an excellent host
Location:
walking distance to very cute restaurants
again the location was great near downtown
great location close to downtown san rafael
we would recommend this location to anyone
the location is ideal and look forward to booking someday again
Read more reviews

8. Private studio near open space, yet close to town (from USD 100)

This couple-friendly studio is only a few miles from some of the most important locations. It is a fully-furnished accommodation with all the amenities that are required to make sure you have a holiday that makes you feel like you are staying at your home. Wireless internet, TV, a washer and a dryer are all at your disposal. You also get access to the kitchen that is fully-equipped with all the essentials, such as a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator and dishes.

Stayed at this property?
San Anselmo, California, United States
11.99 km (7.5 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
132 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
really comfortable and amenities were wonderful 5 star
we enjoyed the coffee and breakfast provided it was very kind and thoughtful of nathalie & brian
laundry detergent iron filtered water in the fridge fresh eggs bottle of wine) allowed a worry-free restful experience
the room was awesome and the ac was perfect in the summer heat
the bed is great and the heater keeps the place toasty
Cleanliness:
very clean with everything you need
their place was very clean and accommodating
clean private and a great value
wonderful studio apartment very clean and quiet
place was exactly how described very clean
Host:
hosts were very nice
very nice place and kind hosts
nathalie was a great host thanks again
nathalie was very accommodating and a wonderful host
i think their relaxed and welcoming manner set the tone for an easy rejuvenating kind of long weekend
Location:
lovely location quiet and easy to access nearby attractions
the location was great gorgeous and quiet
i would recommend this location to anyone and hope to come back soon
this is the perfect place to stay to get away and relax but close enough to good local restaurants
the neighborhood is beautiful and just a short walk from the excellent marin ridge hiking trail
Read more reviews

9. Perfectly located Castro (from USD 99)

This 1895 Victorian apartment is perfect if you are a solo traveller. It is safe, chic and complete with all the amenities that you might need to make sure you have a comfortable and luxurious holiday. Wireless internet and other essentials such as toiletries are available. You also get access to the well-equipped kitchen. The location of the apartment is also perfect. You are close to all the restaurants and other places of interest.

Stayed at this property?
San Francisco, California, United States
20.02 km (12.5 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
482 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room is charming and lined with books which is totally my jam
a space to work and a comfortable bed
room is cute and cozy with comfy bed and tons of natural light
the room is perfect for a single traveler
i love the art in every room including the bathroom
Cleanliness:
the place is very clean and well-decorated
it was neat clean and very cozy
room is very clean and with great sunshine
her apartment is bright very clean and well appointed while chock full of bay area charm
the room was small but clean
Host:
great host with quick responses to any of your questions
brenda is a lovely host
brenda was an amazing host
brenda is a superb host
she is a lovely host and great to talk to
Location:
the location is absolutely great
great location and beautiful space
house has a great location near tram and metro in castro area
it really is perfectly located (loved castro neighbourhood) and close to the main subway line
the location is perfect with great food and transport links nearby
Read more reviews

10. Private room near Dominican area (from USD 100)

This lovely and cosy room is perfect for a couple. You get a lot of amenities that are there to make sure you have a comfortable time. Wireless internet, TV, a smoke detector and free parking are all included. A kitchen is, however, not available. The location is also perfect; it is only a few miles from some of the famous places such as the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
10.97 km (6.9 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
120 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable bed beautiful space lush outdoor courtyard
lots of windows and fresh air and a very comfortable bed
the bed was very comfortable and has a window with a view of a beautiful yard
the bed is very comfortable and joann provided amenities that made me feel welcome and cared for
the bed is a full but features a comfortable mattress
Cleanliness:
sparkling clean and great communication
the bed was clean and comfortable
very clean room and beautiful garden space
the room is clean and warm
place was clean although had some communication issues our stay turned out good
Host:
very helpful & attentive host
she was very accommodating and responsive to my requests
joann was a wonderful host
joanne is a lovely host
joann was an amazing host
Location:
perfect location near dominican university campus
the location was good
the location in san rafael was perfect for visiting the nearby university
joann’s place is in easy location with a car
the location of the property is in a fantastic area
Read more reviews

11. Lovely apartment with all amenities!

Perfect for a couple, this lovely apartment has all the amenities for you. In the apartment, you will find tranquillity and serenity and it is thus perfect if you want to get away from the daily mayhem. You get breakfast during your stay and access to the fully-equipped kitchen. Other amenities include wireless internet, a dryer and a washer. The apartment is only at a distance of 10 minutes from downtown.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
8.86 km (5.6 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
95 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice place old-fashioned quited and comfortable
the king bed is very comfortable and the neighborhood quiet
there was so much light in the room during the day and it was so very calm there
fully equipped kitchen and very comfortable room
laid back space nice big bed quiet and peaceful like living in san rafael
Cleanliness:
very clean and lovely room
the room was big clean and nicely decorated
lu's place was clean quiet and comfortable
the house was clean and the bed was super comfy
wonderful hosts very clean with lot's of thoughtful touches (dr
Host:
helpful kind host
lu was a great host
thank you for being a great host for my father
lu is a great host
very friendly host
Location:
the location is super convenient and close to everything
my favorite airbnb location thus far
great location quiet and yet very close to downtown san rafael
a great location with easy access to downtown san rafael
location excellent for my needs
Read more reviews

12. Small guest room with private bathroom

This cosy apartment for 2 persons is located on the second floor. You get all the amenities to keep you entertained such as a TV, music, and books. You also get free wireless internet services. An indoor fireplace, washer and dryer are also available. A pool is also at your disposal.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
10.89 km (6.8 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
313 reviews  
Private room in house 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we enjoyed the coffee in the morning and light breakfast
we especially appreciated the great breakfast chest filled with cereals and little treats
the room and bathroom were immaculate and comfortable
i felt like i was in a bed and breakfast place
dietmar even shared a bottle of their wine with me one evening in the kitchen
Cleanliness:
small but very clean room
very nice room with clean private bathroom
the bed was comfortable and everything was very clean
the house and the room are clean and confortable and we hope to go there again
all spotlessly clean comfortable and quiet- a perfect place to rest and relax and recharge
Host:
host was welcoming and helpful
very thoughtful hosts who will take good care of you
dietmar and martin were fantastic hosts who made us feel at home immediately
deitmar and martin are very kind hosts
d&m were great hosts - very kind and accommodating
Location:
great location as well
really cute room in a great location in marin
amazing location next to the bay trail
great location right next to bay
loved my daily 45 minute walk to town
Read more reviews

13. A queen bed with a garden view

This tranquil accommodation will make sure that you are rejuvenated during your holiday. It can easily accommodate 3 guests and has several amenities available to make sure you have a comfortable experience. TV, wireless internet, a washer and an indoor fireplace are some of the many facilities available. However, you cannot access the kitchen.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
13.28 km (8.3 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
350 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
room has a very nice view of the backyard garden
adorable room that was nicely set up
there is a shared kitchen and living room space for watching tv or hanging out
the room is huge and very comfortable
Cleanliness:
nice and very clean place
the room is clean spacious
bedroom was very clean and pretty
very beautiful clean and cozy place
room smells clean too
Host:
the caretaker is very friendly
mathias is truly a super host
mathias is truly a super host
mathias is truly a super host
mathias is a very nice and friendly host
Location:
location is great too away from freeway yet only minutes away from central san rafael
amazing location space and value
fantastic location would stay again
relaxed atmosphere and a convenient location
i really like the location since it's just about 15 mins from golden gate
Read more reviews

14. An Italian villa in Old San Rafael

If you are a couple on a holiday, this suite is absolutely the best option for you. It is only 20 minutes from San Fransisco and other important locations. You get a number of facilities such as wireless internet, TV, and a well-equipped mini kitchen. It is also kid-friendly!

Stayed at this property?

8.72 km (5.5 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
17 reviews  
Entire house 1 Bed 2 Guests

15. Private cottage with deck with canyon view

This charming cottage for 2 persons gives a very cosy vibe. The cottage has a private deck from where you can enjoy the views of the winter stream. There are a number of amenities available to make sure you have a luxurious and comfortable vacation. Wireless internet, an indoor fireplace, TV and a washer are some of the amenities. You also get access to the fully-equipped kitchen.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
8.53 km (5.3 mi) from Muir Woods National Monument
601 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
also nice to have an ironing board and iron provided if needed
it was lovely having the deck outside for some breakfast
loved having access to the deck and kitchen
the bed was super comfy with a view of the forest
great deck for breakfast large comfortable bed nice to have the stove microwave coffee machine fan
Cleanliness:
a clean and cozy space
the place is clean and comfortable
the studio was very clean we can’t wait to come back
the place was spotless and the king size bed very comfortable
wonderful environment and very clean
Host:
she was a gracious host and i enjoyed my stay there
delisa was a great host who went above and beyond
delisa was a great host and always communicated clearly responding really fast
easy parking and friendly people
delisa is a welcoming host
Location:
the location is beautiful and very peaceful
the location is charming and serene
location was perfect to move between the city and sonoma
it is very close to the freeway which is great
a place well worth staying
Read more reviews

Book today!

We have tried to put together nothing but the best, with the hope that you find the type of accommodation you are looking for. This is the toughest part of holiday planning since there are a lot of factors that you need to take into consideration. Using this list, you can check out these factors and decide which one is the best one for you. All that is left for you to do now is to choose the one that suits all your needs. Book today and enjoy your holiday without any tension!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sonia is a voracious reader, a passionate writer, and a connoisseur of all things unique, colorful, and exotic.

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