Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views

Guest house near San Francisco Bay in San Rafael

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Photo gallery for Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views

A house nestled among trees with a balcony overlooking a garden.
Property video
A swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by greenery and overlooking a scenic landscape.
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a large window with curtains.
A window with a view of dense foliage and a clear sky.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
San Rafael, CA
  • Place, Marin Country Mart
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Mission San Rafael Arcangel
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Dominican University of California
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪54 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

San Rafael

Bret Harte stay.Your stay at this Bret Harte guesthouse places you within 3 miles (5 km) of San Francisco Bay and Marin Country Mart. Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Gerstle Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

What's nearby

  • Marin Country Mart - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park - 3 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 4 min drive - 2.0 miles
  • Dominican University of California - 4 min drive - 2.2 miles
  • Falkirk Cultural Center - 4 min drive - 2.2 miles

Getting around

  • Berkeley Station - 22 min drive
  • Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Burger King - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Gott's Roadside - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Shake Shack - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Taqueria Mi Familia - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views

Imagine mornings with coffee overlooking the trees, afternoons by the heated saltwater pool, a workout before dinner, and evenings watching the sunset from your private deck. This peaceful standalone guesthouse is designed for couples, solo travelers, remote workers, and small families looking to unwind while exploring Marin, San Francisco, Napa, and Sonoma. Marin's first Green Business Certified vacation rental.

Designed for Relaxation & Wellness

Private Hillside Retreat
• Standalone guesthouse with its own entrance
• Dedicated off-street parking inside the gated property
• Peaceful setting overlooking the hills and city lights
• Quiet mornings, spectacular sunsets, and star-filled evenings
• Pet & family friendly

Poolside Living
• Large heated saltwater pool (May–September)
• Lounge chairs, pool towels, and toys provided
• Shared only with our family, so it stays quiet and uncrowded

Fitness & Movement
• Dedicated workout studio
• Premium rowing machine
• Free weights
• Yoga mats and stretching space

Comfort Year-Round
• Air conditioning (rare in Marin)
• Central heating
• Comfortable queen bed & sofa bed
• Blackout curtains for restful sleep

Easy living
• Streaming TV
• In-unit washer and dryer
• Iron & ironing board

Work From Anywhere
• Dedicated workspace
• Fast Wi-Fi
• Quiet environment for focused work and video meetings

Explore Like a Local
• Personalized recommendations
• Curated guidebook
• Easy access to hiking, beaches, wineries, and San Francisco

Thoughtful Hosting
• Top 1% Superhost
• Self check-in
• Just ask for early checkin
• EV charging available
• Marin's first Green Business Certified vacation rental

Perfect for:
-Couples celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or relaxing weekend away
-Solo travelers looking to recharge, write, work remotely, or enjoy quiet time
-Small families wanting a peaceful home base with a heated pool, easy day trips, and room for up to 2 children
-Remote workers seeking a productive workspace with restorative breaks by the pool or on Marin's hiking trails
-Active travelers exploring hiking, cycling, kayaking, wine country, and the Bay Area
-Guests visiting Marin Health Medical Center or recovering from outpatient procedures who appreciate a calm, comfortable environment

Location: Casita in the Trees is located in a quiet residential hillside neighborhood overlooking San Rafael - not in a downtown or walkable tourist district.
A car is recommended for exploring. Most guests enjoy having a peaceful retreat to return to after days spent hiking, visiting San Francisco, exploring wine country, or discovering Marin's charming towns.

Ideal home base for exploring Marin, San Francisco, Napa & Sonoma:
San Francisco (Golden Gate Bridge): 15 min
Downtown San Rafael: 8 min
Larkspur Ferry Terminal: 7 min
Marin Health Medical Center: 9 min
Greenbrae Surgery Center: 7 min
San Anselmo: 10 min
Sausalito: 20 min
Mill Valley: 25 min
Muir Woods: 35 min
Stinson Beach: 40 min
Sonoma: 35 min
Napa: 45 min
San Francisco (downtown) / Moscone Center: 40 min (or ferry!)

Accessibility: Great for guests with a walker or limited mobility. Single story, zero-step entry. 36-inch doors. Bathroom is not wheelchair accessible because of narrow turns. Stairs to pool.

Special Note: Gender-Affirming & Abortion Care Support – If you’re coming to California for gender-affirming care or abortion care, ask about a discounted stay and post-op care package. We’re happy to help.

Travel Insurance Recommended. Protect your trip with travel insurance

House Rules: Only registered guests allowed on the property – No parties or events.

Licensed Short-Term Rental, City of San Rafael

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Things to do

  • Books
  • Gym
  • Outdoor pool
  • Stereo

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Front entrance ramp
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Single level property
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Private pool
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dining table
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Cleaning products are eco-friendly
  • Composting
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Dryer
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Recycling
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Guests can access their accommodation through a private entrance
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Private entrance

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Maximum 1 pets
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
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 private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. 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. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number STR24-000044

Frequently asked questions

How close is Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views to the airport?

This guesthouse is 31.1 mi (51-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 Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views?

As of Aug 5, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views on Aug 22, 2026 start from $518, 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.

Does Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this guesthouse.

How close is Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views to the beach?

This guesthouse is 16.3 mi (35-min drive) from Ocean Beach and 9.8 mi (20-min drive) from Keller Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views offer free breakfast?

This guesthouse does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views?

No, there is no casino at this guesthouse, but San Pablo Lytton Casino (21-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views?

Free parking is not available at this guesthouse.

Does Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views have a pool?

This guesthouse features an outdoor pool.

Does Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this guesthouse.

How close is Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views to downtown San Rafael?

This guesthouse is 1.6 mi away from San Rafael.

Private Wellness Retreat • Heated Saltwater Pool • Gym • A/C • Views Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 12 out of 12 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

monica v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best

An ideal getaway. So quiet and serene. The pool is delightful. Clean and comfortable. Thank you for having us! We hope to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Christine M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautifu; clean space. We notified the hosts at the last minute that we were bringing our dog, and they had a bed and treats waiting. Very attentive.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic stay over the past weekend. Property is clean, quiet and offers great views on the drive up and from the pool area. Check in was communicated clearly and we had no issues accessing gate or front door. The Casita has a comfortable, roomy layout with lost of thoughtful touches. Our normally anxious pup loved the pet bed/toys and settled in quickly. Thanks for a great stay, Melodie!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Theresa B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Melodie is SO SWWEEEETTTTT! She left simple instructions and the place is PERFECT! Intimate, at the end of the road, nature views and a small private deck. Beautiful experience!!!!!! Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Marina N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Stay

Exactly what I was looking for! I was visiting family over the holidays and needed a place to stay nearby. The Casita exceeded my expectations. Quiet, clean, easy check in, comfy bed, treats, toiletries and a great layout. Melodie is the most responsive host I’ve ever interacted with. I will absolutely stay here again on my next visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jimmie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

I will be seeking this place again

This place was like a retreat. I loved it. No traffic noise. Open windows. Nice cool breeze. A place to relax. It was awesome! I even saw a deer lurking about.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

DE B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A gem of a property in beautiful Marin county. Super quiet and peaceful. Impressive views of downtown San Rafael. A clean and updated mid-century modern property that is cozy and it's own private balcony. A wonderful heated pool that is large enough for lap swimming. Host provided all the necessities along with snacks, premium coffee, and a bottle of bubbly. Onsite EV charger was convenient, just paid the local utility rates.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alee K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely respite less than an hour from SF

We needed an escape from fireworks in Oakland on the Fourth of July and this place more than delivered. It's quiet, the neighborhood is lovely and still accessible to day hikes, markets and food in the North Bay. The pool is, in a word, awesome. Warm and inviting, lots of fun stuff to play with like pool noodles and these toy water guns that 10-year-old me would've lost his mind over. Perfect summer activity.Melodie is a fantastic and attentive host. Check in was seamless. I also appreciate how accommodating she was for our dog. She offered a bunch of helpful supplies to make his stay with us more comfortable.Would gladly return to this property. Thanks again for a lovely summer stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Joan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026