AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

4.0 star property
4-star hotel near Dominican University of California

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

Exterior
1 bedroom, premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk
Property amenity
Lobby
Terrace/patio

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Bar
  • Breakfast available
  • Laundry
  • Parking available

Explore the area

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

  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking

  • 427 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

  • 320 sq ft
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

  • 320 sq ft
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 1 King Bed (Hearing Accessible)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • 320 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

About the neighborhood

San Rafael

Downtown San Rafael stay.With a stay at this Downtown San Rafael hotel, you'll be within 2 miles (3 km) of Dominican University of California and 6 miles (10 km) of Larkspur Ferry Terminal. San Francisco Bay is within 6 miles (10 km) and Muir Woods National Monument is within 12 miles (20 km).

What's nearby

  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Dominican University of California - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Marin County Civic Center - 4 min drive - 2.5 miles
  • Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 5 min drive - 2.9 miles
  • Muir Woods National Monument - 18 min drive - 10.4 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪California Gold - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Tam Commons - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The State Room - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Royal Ground Coffee - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Aroma Cafe - ‬2 min walk

About this property

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

4-star hotel near Dominican University of California
There are 2 restaurants on site, along with a grocery/convenience store. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. A 24-hour business center 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 meters) 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
  • Meeting 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 center (24 hours)
  • Conference space
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Dry cleaning
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Staff is multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front-desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Wedding services available
  • Convenience store
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown offers 140 air-conditioned accommodations with complimentary bottled water and coffee/tea makers. Accommodations offer separate sitting areas. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. 32-inch LCD televisions come with premium cable channels, pay movies, and Netflix. Bathrooms include showers with hydromassage showerheads, 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 phones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Additionally, rooms include hair dryers and irons/ironing boards. Hypo-allergenic bedding, change of towels, and change of bedsheets can be requested. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Family friendly

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

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 transportation

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

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator (36 inch wide door)
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (36 inches high)
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

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

Bedroom

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

Bathroom

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

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 available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available
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 lbs 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 cribs (infant beds)!

Property 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-serve breakfast: 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-authorize 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 guestroom 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-authorize 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 each 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).

We should mention

  • Up to 2 children 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

How close is AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown to the airport?

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is 30.4 mi (38-min drive) away from the Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

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

As of Jun 16, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown on Jun 26, 2025 start from $163.0, excluding 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.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown.

How close is AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown to the beach?

This hotel is 19.7 mi (52-min drive) from Stinson Beach and 5.2 mi (11-min drive) from McNears Beach Country Park. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown, but self-serve breakfast is offered for a fee of USD 18.00 per person. It's available every day from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM.

Is there a casino at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but San Pablo Lytton Casino (19-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 1:00 AM.

Is there free parking at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Free parking is not available at this hotel. Self parking is available for USD 29 per day.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown have a pool?

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown does not have a pool.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown have a restaurant?

There are 2 onsite restaurants, offering options like happy hour and light fare.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown to downtown San Rafael?

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is 0.1 mi away from San Rafael.

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 107 out of 146 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 20 out of 146 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 146 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 7 out of 146 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 146 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

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

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
they could improve menu
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eduardo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen, Red bluff

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

4/10 Poor

Kathleen

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Guy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was very clean. The easy clean floors allowed noise to travel between floors.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Was very impressed with the hotel. A lot nicer than I expected
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice hotel
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

6/10 Okay

Brian

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

Amazing shower, mediocre service

It's a nice, clean, modern hotel with an amazing shower. However, when we checked in we were told we couldn't park in the underground hotel parking lot, which is where my car was parked, because the lost was booked. We were asked to park in the public lot around the corner. At 11:30 pm there were six open spots in the hotel lot. We also had trouble communicating with the front desk clerk and the housekeeping staff.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Desiree

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

Nice new hotel

My husband and I stayed here just for one night to have a little getaway. Downtown San Rafael is so cute and there are lots of bars, restaurants, shops and things to do. We got here early before check in and was happy when we found out that a room was available. Everyone was so nice, from the reception to the bartender to the cleaning staff. Our room was clean, organized well and cozy. There is an outside hang out area with Apple fire places and a lovely atmosphere.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jade

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

10/10 Excellent

MARTHA G, SACRAMENTO

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
thank you for your service
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

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

8/10 Good

Kolubah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beds are so comfortable, and the rooms were very clean
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eduardo

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

william

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

Central. Great.

Central. New. Great.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024