AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

4.0 star property
Hotel with 2 restaurants, near Dominican University of California

Photo gallery for AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

Exterior
1 bedroom, premium bedding, pillow-top beds, desk
Terrace/patio
Lobby
Property amenity

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Bar
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
The current price is AU$333
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept

Explore the area

View map
1201 5TH AVENUE, San Rafael, CA, 94901
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Dominican University of California
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Marin County Civic Center
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(13 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 40 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking (Mobility Accessible, Roll-in Shower)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 40 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Mountain View

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Mountain View

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 1 King Bed (Hearing Accessible)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Premium Room, 2 Queen Beds, Mountain View (Mobility Accessible, Roll-In Shower)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Premium Room, 1 King Bed, Mountain View (Mobility Accessible, Roll-In Shower)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 40 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking (Hearing Accessible)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds (Mobility Accessible, Roll-In Shower)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds (Mobility/Hearing Access, Roll-in Shwr)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Soundproofed
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Mini-fridge
LCD TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

About the area

San Rafael

At AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown, you'll be 1.5 km (0.9 mi) from Dominican University of California and 5.3 km (3.3 mi) from Larkspur Ferry Terminal. Highlights at this hotel include 2 restaurants, a bar/lounge and a 24-hour business centre. .The restaurant, AC Kitchen, is open for breakfast. Above Fifth is the hotel's own rooftop bar, serving drinks along with light fare. 925 square feet (86 square metres) of event facilities include meeting rooms and conference space. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi in public areas, a rooftop terrace and concierge services. Self-service breakfast is available daily between 6:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Bring your pet along and take advantage of this property's pet-friendly amenities, such as food and water bowls. There's also the convenience of self parking. .Sights within a 20-minute drive of this 4-property class Downtown San Rafael hotel include San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

What's nearby

  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Dominican University of California - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Marin County Civic Center - 4 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market - 4 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 5 min drive - 4.6 km

Getting around

  • Berkeley Station - 21 min drive
  • Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Burren House
  • ‪California Gold - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Pink Owl Coffee - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Tam Commons - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Red Rooster Brick Oven - ‬3 min walk

About this property

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

Hotel with 2 restaurants, near Dominican University of California
There are 2 restaurants on site, along with a nearby corner/local shop. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. A 24-hour business centre and meeting rooms are available.

A computer station is on site and WiFi is free in public spaces. Event space at this hotel measures 925 square feet (86 square metres) and includes conference space. A rooftop terrace, multilingual staff, and tour/ticket assistance are also featured at the business-friendly AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown. Limited parking is available for a fee and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

This 4-star San Rafael hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 140 guestrooms or units
  • 6 levels
  • 2 dining venues
  • Conference rooms
  • 925 sq ft of conference space
  • 86 sq. m of conference space
  • Built in 2023
  • Terrace on the roof
  • Charging station for electric cars
  • Business centre (24 hours)
  • Conference space
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Dry cleaning
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Staff members are multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Wedding services available
  • Corner/local shop
  • Lift
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown offers 140 air-conditioned accommodations with complimentary bottles of water and coffee/tea makers. This accommodation offers separate sitting areas. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. 32-inch LCD televisions come with premium cable channels, pay-per-view films and Netflix. Bathrooms include a shower with a hydromassage showerhead, bathrobes, slippers and designer toiletries.

This San Rafael hotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access, with a speed of 500+ Mbps (good for 6+ people or 10+ devices). Business-friendly amenities include desks and desk chairs, as well as telephones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Additionally, rooms include a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board. Hypo-allergenic bedding, change of towels and change of bedsheets can be requested. Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 500+ Mbps (good for 6+ people or 10+ devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Height restrictions apply for on-site parking
  • 24-hour offsite parking (USD 14 per day)
  • Street parking available
  • Secured, covered parking on site (USD 29 per day)
  • Limited on-site parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily self-serve breakfast available 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: USD 18 per person
  • 2 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge
  • Couples/private dining

Restaurants on site

  • Above Fifth
  • AC Kitchen
  • AC Lounge

Family friendly

  • Grocery/convenience store
  • In-room cot
  • Mini-fridge
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Grocery/convenience store
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 24-hour business centre
  • 925 square feet of conference space
  • Computer station
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • In a nature reserve
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Rooftop terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • Lift (92 centimetre wide door)
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business centre
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (92 centimetre high)
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 1 building
  • 6 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Biodegradable coffee stirrers available
  • Built in 2023
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • Smoke-free property
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Free cot
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Designer toiletries
  • Dressing gowns
  • Hair dryer
  • Hydromassage showerhead
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste (on request)
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch LCD TV with premium cable channels
  • Netflix
  • Pay films
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Electrical adapters
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Mobile key entry
  • Phone
  • Recycling
  • Separate sitting area
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 1:00 AM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Guests are recommended to download the property's Bonvoy mobile app before check-in

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Pets: USD 50.00 per accommodation, per night
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lb per pet)
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Up to 2 children 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Free cots (infant beds)!

Payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for self-service breakfast: from approximately USD 18.00 per person
  • Covered self-parking fee: USD 29 per day (in/out privileges)
  • Nearby parking fee: USD 14 per day(656 ft away; open 24 hours)
  • Pet fee: USD 50.00 per accommodation, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments; cash is not accepted
Mobile payment options include: Apple Pay
This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Long-term renters welcome
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit and window guards
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Marriott)
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB International, Union Pay, mobile payments and Apple Pay. Cash is not accepted. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise the guest's credit card prior to arrival. Long-term renters welcome.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit and window guards in all accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions and guests can access their rooms with a mobile device. This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Marriott) guidelines.

We should mention

  • Up to 2 children aged 17 years old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • To make arrangements to bring your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation (please see the Fees section for related charges).
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Ac Rafael Downtown Rafael
AC Hotel by Marriott San Rafael
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown Hotel
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown San Rafael
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown Hotel San Rafael

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

As of 28 Aug 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown on 11 Sept 2025 start from AU$332.69, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Yep, AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown has a secured covered self car park with in/out privileges for USD 29 per day. Onsite parking is limited.

Are there any beaches close to AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

The closest beach to AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is Stinson Beach (13 km).

What makes AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown a romantic place to stay?

Couples dining and a champagne service, as well as pillowtop beds in the guestrooms, all help set the scene for a romantic weekend at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown.

Is AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a corner/local shop, as well as free infant beds in the guestrooms, it's no surprise that AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is a hit with families.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown serve breakfast?

Yeah, self-service brekkie is available daily from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown does not offer an airport shuttle service.

Is there a bar or restaurant at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Yep, they've got a lounge bar and 2 restaurants. Pre dinner cocktails anyone?

What time are check-in & check-out at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is noon.

Are pets allowed at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Furry friends are welcome at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown, with food and water bowls on offer. Just so you know, there's a limit of 2 pets, with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 120 out of 168 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 168 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 7 out of 168 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 168 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 168 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jenny

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice and clean hotel. The staff was pleasant and helpful. The surrounding area had many restaurants to choose from and we noticed the streets were well maintained.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Danielle

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

2/10 Terrible

Kasiemobi

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
So many hidden fees. Front desk staff are very rude and do not like to help. Only the manager, Dominic, was able to assist and help me with my needs. I do NOT recommend this location to anyone unless if you like to pay extra unnecessary money that they do not disclose upfront.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Frank

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Excellent choice in San Rafael, right downtown, short walking distance to fine restaurants. Nice staff, too!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Renelle

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Edmund

Travelled with family, Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel in the best location in San Rafael and too go along with that you get excellent service. You won’t be disappointed if you choose this hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martha

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Surprised to find such a sophisticated and well priced hotel in San Rafael. Really enjoyed it!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Manuel

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown achieves that rare alchemy: modernist functionality without clinical sterility. Rooms float between minimalist and indulgent—a sanctuary of considered design. The breakfast? A revelation. The kitchen team performs daily miracles that would make Ferran Adrià weep with jealousy. Truly, hospitality's platonic ideal realized.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marcia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
A beautiful hotel conveniently located in downtown San Rafael
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hamed

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eduardo

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Business traveller, Travelled with family, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason, San Diego

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great property. We have stayed here multiple times and had a good experience every single time. Rooms are new, modern, and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angel

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff when i checked in and so easy to check in.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

highly recommended

Really beautiful, modernist design inside and out, with spacious rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows (and views of the surrounding hills if you're on an upper floor), and an equally generous lobby, with full bar. Even more so, staff were friendly and helpful, and the entire facility was absolutely spotless. Very reminiscent of hotels in Europe and, at the reasonable rates, we will definitely return!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Matthew

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Overall, wish they chose a better room for us but it was a nice stay. The hotel was clean and the room was modern and spacious. However, it's own parking facilities are very limited so I had to use a separate, less secure, albeit cheaper lot. Also, I paid for a mountain view room and didn't get one, since I was looking out the East end as opposed to the South end, where Mt Tam would be visible..
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heela

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

John, Mill Valley

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Amber

Disliked: Amenities
Overall, comfortable, modern and clean… I would’ve appreciated a true blackout room. Curtains are not sufficient to block sun. Also, the bathroom is like a stall, so there’s a gap at the bottom and at the top… Anyone going with a significant other who prefers to have their privacy in the bathroom may want to look into that before committing. Would be way more likely to book if I need a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and cold plunge.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

evan

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Orie, Boise

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely place. Good for business and personal travel
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025