See all properties

Panama Hotel

2.0 star property
San Rafael hotel in Gerstle Park area

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Panama Hotel

Front of property
Bungalow (Mimi's) | Living area | 32-inch Smart TV with cable channels
Room (Rosie's) | Living area | 32-inch Smart TV with cable channels
Room (Ken's Safari) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes
Room (Rosie's) | Terrace/patio

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
4 BAYVIEW STREET, San Rafael, CA, 94901
  • Place, San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Mission San Rafael Arcangel
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Dominican University of California
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room (Bordello)

Room (Bordello) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Bordello)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Cabin (Captain's Cabin)

Cabin (Captain's Cabin) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Cabin (Captain's Cabin)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Room (Garden Room)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Room (Grant's Tome)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Honeymoon Room

Honeymoon Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Honeymoon Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room (Jennifer's)

Room (Jennifer's) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Jennifer's)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Room (Ken's Safari)

Room (Ken's Safari) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Ken's Safari)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room (Lady Bracknell's)

Room (Lady Bracknell's) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Lady Bracknell's)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Bungalow (Mimi's)

Bungalow (Mimi's) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Bungalow (Mimi's)

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Futon

View all photos for Room (Maria's Pueblo)

Room (Maria's Pueblo) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Maria's Pueblo)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room (Roy Roger's)

Room (Roy Roger's) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Roy Roger's)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Room (Rosie's)

Room (Rosie's) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Rosie's)

  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Futon

View all photos for Room (Venetian)

Room (Venetian) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Venetian)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room (Dale Evans)

Room (Dale Evans) | Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, blackout drapes

Room (Dale Evans)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

San Rafael

Gerstle Park stay.At this Gerstle Park hotel, you'll be steps from San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park and within a 15-minute walk of Mission San Rafael Arcangel. Falkirk Cultural Center and Dominican University of California are also within 2 miles (3 km).

What's nearby

  • Marin Bocce Federation - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Gerstle Park - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Dominican University of California - 20 min walk - 1.1 miles

Getting around

  • Richmond Transit Center - 19 min drive
  • San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Muffin Mania Cafe - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Garden Cafe - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪California Gold - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Flatiron - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Il Davide - ‬8 min walk

About this property

Panama Hotel

San Rafael hotel in Gerstle Park area
There's a restaurant on site. Public spaces have free WiFi. Panama Hotel also features a garden and coffee/tea in a common area.
  • 13 guestrooms or units
  • Built in 1910
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Garden
  • Dining venue
Panama Hotel offers 13 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. These individually decorated and furnished accommodations include desks. 32-inch Smart televisions come with cable channels.

Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations with rainfall showerheads. This San Rafael hotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access, with a speed of 50+ Mbps. Change of towels and change of bedsheets can be requested. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Similar properties

Reception
North Bay Inn
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
3.9 out of 5, Good, 945 reviews
$105 nightly
The price is $118
Jan 29 - Jan 30
Total with taxes and fees
North Bay Inn

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Soundproofed rooms

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 50+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Food and drink

  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 32-inch smart TV with cable channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 25.00
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: USD 25.00

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • Pets: USD 15.00 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

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.

  • Pet fee: USD 15.00 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in fee: USD 25.00 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 25.00 (subject to availability)

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 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
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit 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. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. No onsite parking is available. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB International, debit cards, and cash. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

Panama Hotel Hotel
Panama Hotel SAN RAFAEL
Panama Hotel Hotel SAN RAFAEL

Frequently asked questions

How close is Panama Hotel to the airport?

Panama Hotel is 31.5 mi (46-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 Panama Hotel?

As of Jan 20, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Panama Hotel on Jan 26, 2026 start from $86.49, 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 Panama Hotel have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Panama Hotel.

How close is Panama Hotel to the beach?

This hotel is 5.2 mi (16-min drive) from McNears Beach Country Park and 11.7 mi (19-min drive) from Point Molate Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Panama Hotel offer free breakfast?

Panama Hotel does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Panama Hotel?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but San Pablo Lytton Casino (20-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Panama Hotel?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. Early check-in costs USD 25.00 (subject to availability).

Is there free parking at Panama Hotel?

Free parking is not available at this hotel.

Does Panama Hotel have a pool?

Panama Hotel does not have a pool.

Does Panama Hotel have a restaurant?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site.

Does Panama Hotel have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Panama Hotel to downtown San Rafael?

Panama Hotel is 0.4 mi away from San Rafael.

Panama Hotel Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 129 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 20 out of 129 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 11 out of 129 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 9 out of 129 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 24 out of 129 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

7.8/10

Staff & service

6.6/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen

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

Quaint Hotel in San Rafael

This is my favorite hotel in San Rafael. I often travel with my medium sized dog and they are very welcoming and gave us a great room with a private fenced patio. The rooms have names and individual characteristic decorations. I always get a room with a private bathroom and it is well equipped with coffee maker, microwave and refrigerator with a small sink for washing up. I am looking forward to the day they open their restaurant again. It is easy walking distance to the local park and downtown San Rafael. The staff is very friendly and the room always clean.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
I will definitely comeback to Panama hotel
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This is a magical place with a really good price. I enjoyed walking into downtown. It is quite, safe and comfortable. Be sure you know that many of the rooms offer shared bathroom and shared kitchen. Also, the stairs are steep and shallow, so it may not be the best choice if you have mobility issues.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leonard

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Eclectic Style in San Rafael

Just needed an affordable room while visiting family. I loved all the eclectic charm and antiques at the hotel, such a quirky cool vibe!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Fatemeh

Traveled with pets
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is not a hotel!!! This was an old, broken, and terrifying Jail. The staircase was so dangerous that you could kill yourself climbing it. No air conditioning. Only fan!! Mosquitoes in the room. The blanket was torn off. The room was so tiny!! Shared bathroom, fridge and macrowave ... just terrible.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

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

8/10 Good

Mayra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Abby

Our room was comfortable but the lobby and main areas were very cluttered and not in use which gave the place a strange vibe.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Morgan

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

ANN

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Miguel is helpful
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

ferhat

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

Simple

$115 no private bathroom, very small room. Just thru my day
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Briana

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was so friendly and helpful. The rooms are so cute, comfortable, and homey. There is plenty of street parking. There is a cute little bakery right next door and you can walk to a local grocery store. Overall, I really enjoyed my stay here
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

jamaia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Convenient for exploring San Rafael and Larkspur.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alan

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Lisa

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Matthew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Good value and close to restaurants. Enos, staff, was excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Johanna

Traveled with pets
Liked: Amenities
Top
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adam

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

A unique boutique in Marin!

If you're looking for a unique boutique hotel in Marin, this is a wonderful place to stay! The rooms are very comfortable and the inn keeper, Enos, is a great and accommodating host! Be aware that some rooms have a shared bathroom, so check to make sure it says "private bathroom" if that's a requirement. Other than that, I highly recommend and will return again! Thanks!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

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

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff and friendly people. Would recommend 👌
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martin

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thanh

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Craig

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The whole property is under renovation and only shared bathroom rooms are available. It is old, tight steep stairs, small rooms. Its more like a child vacation home than a hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The Panama Hotel has a certain old-time charm and is a really great place to stay. The staff is friendly, helpful, and responsive. The room was comfortable and the Internet connection was good. The shared bathroom was fine except for when someone took a bath and left the tub dirty (it was cleaned up by staff the next morning). I will stay here again if needed and would recommend to friends and family as a charming and, at times, reasonably priced place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025