San Rafael, located halfway between San Francisco and California's famous wine country, is Marin's oldest city. San Rafael is also Marin's central city. Located in the center of the county's eastern urban corridor, San Rafael is the county's governmental, business, and cultural center. Famous for its favorable climate, San Rafael makes a central base for taking day trips to scenic locations such as the Napa/Sonoma wine country, the Pt. Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

San Rafael's many Attractions include its namesake Mission San Rafael Arcangel, the landmark Frank Lloyd Wright Civic Center, Victorian architecture, a lively downtown district, and historic China Camp, and more. For information about events taking place in downtown San Rafael click see the “Helpful Links” section below.

Information Courtesy San Rafael Chamber of Commerce

San Rafael is reached by entering a long, dredged channel beginning with flashing green “17” at San Pablo Strait. From here, follow the long line of lit markers past East and West Marin islands to flashing green “5.” At flashing green “5,” you have the choice to proceed north through an eight-foot-deep unmarked channel to the town Yacht Harbor, or continue west toward San Rafael Creek and the main portion of San Rafael. A lit range helps to guide you in.

Local Notices to Mariners are now exclusively available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

City of San Rafael

Marina County Visitors Bureau

San Rafael Chamber of Commerce