Kathleen’s guidebook
Food scene
Amazing local restaurant, fine dining. Book on the patio in Summer months.
11 locals recommend
MARCHE AUX FLEURS
23 Ross CommonAmazing local restaurant, fine dining. Book on the patio in Summer months.
Blue Barn
2237 Polk StGreat salads and sandwiches
Marinitas
218 Sir Francis Drake BlvdFantastic upscale Mexican food in fun setting
The star of San Rafael! Amazing Puerto Rican restaurant, hip and delicious! Live music outside on a Thursday in the Summer months.
226 locals recommend
Sol Food
903 Lincoln AveThe star of San Rafael! Amazing Puerto Rican restaurant, hip and delicious! Live music outside on a Thursday in the Summer months.
Café del Soul
247 Shoreline HwyLovely organic cafe good for lunches, juices and salads
Aroma Cafe
1122 4th StCute downtown coffee shop with healthy food
Red Whale Coffee
169 Paul DrGreat local coffee shop
Sightseeing
Smith Rafael Film Center
1118 4th StGreat local art-house theater
Beautiful hikes and trails through the Redwoods. Head out to Fairfax for food afterwards.
19 locals recommend
Roys Redwoods Preserve
Beautiful hikes and trails through the Redwoods. Head out to Fairfax for food afterwards.
Lucas Valley Preserve
This is your backyard!! Trails into this from the end of the street!
Big Rock
3850 Lucas Valley RdBeautiful trails overlooking Lucas Valley
Fun farmer's market 4-7pm on Thursdays, downtown Summer months
10 locals recommend
The Downtown San Rafael Farmers Market
1001 4th StFun farmer's market 4-7pm on Thursdays, downtown Summer months
Marinwood Community Center
775 Miller Creek RdLocal pool
Phoenix Lake
Beautiful trail around a lake
Neighborhoods
Vibrant local town with a great vibe, fun to wander around, look at the cute stores and cafes.
65 locals recommend
Fairfax
Vibrant local town with a great vibe, fun to wander around, look at the cute stores and cafes.
Petaluma
Great for antique shopping
San Anselmo
Cute shops and restaurants