Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
47 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
San Rafael
This villa places you within a few miles (5 km) of San Francisco Bay and Marin Country Mart. The villa includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a patio.
Dominican University of California - 4 min drive - 1.1 miles
Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 4 min drive - 2.0 miles
Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 4 min drive - 2.3 miles
Marin County Civic Center - 6 min drive - 4.0 miles
Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market - 6 min drive - 4.0 miles
Getting around
Berkeley Station - 19 min drive
Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK) - 49 min drive
Restaurants
Circle K - 16 min walk
Picante - 13 min walk
Mi Pueblo Food Center - 15 min walk
Burger King - 17 min walk
Le Croissant Restaurant - 12 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven
Reverse pandemic blues at this retreat charged 4 bedroom haven with an authentic Finnish sauna, canal-front jacuzzi consciousness, paddle-boards, a kayak, replete comfy zones to lazily exchange conversation. The tranquility of the canal will replace all Debbie downer thoughts with a symphony of luminous relaxation, bound to bedazzle wary minds and hearts. The space Tastefully furnished on the inside, this villa features 4 bedrooms with king or queen size beds, 2.5 bathrooms, two tuned grand pianos for dueling it out, and within a few minute paddle to the bay. After a few hours here you’ll forget about any invisible enemy that has destroyed the basic hug! Great for team building and corporate or family retreats! No parties allowed. no racers allowed. Family gathering or smaller civilized gatherings are allowed pending a conversation and clarity on safety guidelines. Long-term rental an option. Guest access The entire property , entire first floor, entire front courtyard, backyard with pool and spa and BBQ area, deck area where boat is docked. Paddleboards and Kayak accessible. Boat is not included in rental. Second floor bedroom is not included. It's used as office and sometimes host may decide to stay . This room has a separate gate and entrance from a private entry. Guest may request for guest not to stay on second floor for additional cost. The host can arrange additional cleaning service for guests staying long-term (5 days or more).
The 2.5 bathrooms included three showers and one soaking tub and half bath House manual There’s a manual in a binder on the kitchen counter. Most significantly pertaining to water activities it is critical and required to wear life jackets when on the canal or in the bay. If life jackets are not worn you could be cited by the Coast Guard. Life jackets are next to the TV in family room and in the dock box. Note that theres a swimming pool, jacuzzi and a large fish tank which requires a brief maintenance weekly. While someone will not enter the home, we appreciate your cooperation in allowing them to perform maintenance duties peripherally or if any equipment need repairs the technician will enter through a seperate gate without interrupting the guests. We only notify the guest if they need to get inside the house not the yard . This is a large home and we need guests cooperation to keep it in good conditionIf rules are not honored, guests will be asked to leave and will not receive a refund from the host. It is significant to note that due to some bad apples in the past, we are enforcing rules with greater scrutiny, and ask for honesty and transparency in an effort to help honor and preserve the tranquility of the community, especially with homes across the canal that absorb amplified sound that travels across the canal. For safety of our guests we have outdoor security cameras in front of driveway, court yard , back yard. Thank you for respecting our community!
PARKING : 2-4 parking spots available in driveway (depending on your advanced Tetris skills ). No more than 3 cars can park on the street. There are 24 hour parking spots on the street if you can find parking or you may park over night in public parking in the adjacent park parking lot. No ragers allowed. Family gathering or smaller civilized gatherings are allowed pending a conversation and clarity on safety guidelines.
The villa is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a coffee maker.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Front entrance ramp
No elevator
Single level property
Smooth flooring in public areas
Wheelchair-accessible pool
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Safe
Location highlights
On a lake
On the waterfront
Things to do
Foosball table
Kayak
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Unit size: 4,000 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Please gather all used Towels and sheets in the laundry room . Thank you
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
No parties , if party takes place the host has the right to ask guests to leave the property without any refund .
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Guests to sign liability waiver form
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
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Property Registration Number 85-2989037
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
There are no elevators.
Property is also known as
Vrbo Property San Rafael
Vrbo Property Private vacation home
Vrbo Property Private vacation home San Rafael
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do within easy reach of this villa?
This villa is located in San Rafael, close to Larkspur Ferry Terminal, Marin County Civic Center, and Mission San Rafael Arcangel. You'll also find San Francisco Bay and China Camp State Park within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at this villa?
No, there isn't parking available at the villa.
Is this villa next to a casino?
No, this villa is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this villa?
No, this villa doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.
What amenities will couples enjoy at Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven?
This lakeside villa offers many amenities for couples such as a private pool, private pools in some villas, as well as an outdoor pool.
Does Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven have a hot tub?
Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this villa.
Does this villa provide breakfast?
No, this villa doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this villa allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this villa.
Does this villa have connecting rooms?
No, this villa doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this villa?
The closest major airport to this villa is Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), which is about 23.6 mi away. Another top airport is Concord, CA (CCR-Buchanan Field), which is around 24.3 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies at Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven?
Yes, every villa at Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven comes with a deck with some featuring lake views.
Tranquil Waterfront Retreat Haven Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 23 reviews
10 - Excellent
20
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 23 reviews
8 - Good
3
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 23 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 23 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 23 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
10/10
Eco-friendliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Iman O.
Oct 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place, we had a great time. The kids really enjoyed the place and had tons of fun. Sherry, our host, was wonderful and stayed on touch with throughout our stay. Awesome experience.
Iman O.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wild H.
Sep 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
we celebrated my milestone birthday with family and friends this past weekend. the house has been well loved and thoughtfully furnished and decorated. it is well equipped and has lots of wonderful amenities. sherry is a wonderful hostess and very responsive with requests and concerns.
Wild H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Michelle F.
Aug 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible property with attentive support
We had an incredible stay at this property and Sherry was very responsive, warm, and attentive property manager making sure we had everything we need to have a great weekend. The sun was out each day with both beautiful views on the water, and the property was set up to support our group of 13 girls as we reconnected and celebrated one another. There were ample places to host small activities (tv room, dining room, outside) as well as alcoves for opportunities to reconnect or get some space on your own. I also arranged ahead of time with Sherry to bring a backyard caterer and all the gals had a great time dining near the pool and enjoying sunset. As far as decor and kitchen equipment, this place had it all -- there were two fridges, two dishwashers, and closets full of any bedding/sheets we may need. We had such a great time many of us are considering coming back to make it annual thing. We had a small ant situation at the start but it was dealt with swiftly -- and Sherry took great care to ensure we had all the things that we need to fit even fit our theme of the event well ahead of time and throughout. Highly recommend this place for folks looking for a getaway.
Michelle F.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brian G.
Aug 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The property was great and met all of our expectations. The property manager was very attentive and helpful throughout our stay. Only issue we had was lots of flies in the house. We kept the doors and windows closed but there seemed to be an endless amount of flies. I get that being on the water you can’t avoid flies but some sort of mitigation is needed. Other than that small issue our stay was great!
Brian G.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Angel H.
Aug 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Home is beautiful and well appointed. We had plenty of space for our party of 7 longtime girlfriends to reconnect. Property manager was great at accommodating. She answered texts right away and made us feel very welcome. Able to paddleboard and kayak on lagoon and enjoy all the dining and lounge areas around the property.
Angel H.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
M J.
Jul 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This was hands-down the best vacation we’ve ever had. The view was absolutely breathtaking—truly one of a kind. Waking up to that scenery every day felt like a dream. The home itself was spotless, cozy, and had everything we needed, but what made this experience even more special was the owner. They were the best communicator—so kind, generous, and thoughtful from start to finish. We felt genuinely cared for and welcomed. We left feeling refreshed, grateful, and already dreaming about coming back. If you’re thinking about booking—do it. You won’t regret it!
M J.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Susan D.
Jun 16, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Well stocked house and the host is very responsive.
Susan D.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Gian M.
Jun 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Wifes 40th birthday with dearest close friends! Best Place for a special occassion!!
This place was absolutely perfect for my wifes 40th birthday get together with our closest friends. We had so much fun and itnwas just what we all needed for a quick 2 day getaway. This place was Super clean when we arrived and the check in was so easy. We communicate by text and phone with Sherry several times and she is super sweet wish we could have met in person to say Hi, she but made sure we are comfortable and if there was anything we needed to let her know. You really can't beat the view of the bay canal being in a swimming pool/ hot tub during sunset, or sitting in the spa in the early morning at at sunrise. The sauna was definitely cool! The beds were very comfortable and the showers/ tubs in bathrooms are HUGE! There is so much open space in the home made it so nice for everyone to migle around. The girls had a blast on the kayak going up and down the bay canal seeing thr surrounding homes in the area. We definitely want to come back again in the future hopefully! Would rate this more than 5 stars if we could!
Gian M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
8/10 Good
Joan S.
May 30, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Family celebration
The location is just wonderful! The pool and hot tub are nice. Water way is great , so special. The house has a lovely design but could use some maintenance. The kitchen though having dishes for serving 40, doesn’t have large family size pots, nor cooking sheets, vegetable brushes….for people who cook. It did have ants. There’s every kind of appliance but having them all out on the counter leaves no space for food prep ( we temporarily placed some in the pantry to have counter space). Having two dishwashers was wonderful and having two refrigerators too but the freezer in one wasn’t working properly. The BBQs were not functioning properly or needed cleaning but the full range of burners wouldn’t light on one but sent large flames out where it would light. The other one didn’t work . Seemed a safety issue so we reverted to cooking indoors. One bathroom needs convenient outlet locations. Hard to dry your hair if the outlet is at the baseboard. All bathrooms should have plungers that sit in a container (we lifted one and it had “dirty” water going onto the towel left to absorb this. Day one and not from our group). We had a great time by just rolling through these challenges but honestly with some thoughtful attention, better inspection of the place and a few more essential kitchen things, this could be a stellar place. I’d consider returning as the outdoors space and activities are so great but these other issues make me feel the owner isn’t fully committed to making it GREAT.
Joan S.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
8/10 Good
Christina R.
May 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Casa Canal
We had a wonderful & relaxing time at Casa Canal this past weekend with a group of women. Although the neighborhood made us a little concerned when we were driving to it but when we got there we felt secure. The property is surrounded with video surveillance & once behind the gate of the home you feel transported to a different place. It’s so relaxing, the water, the birds & the ambiance was so refreshing. Would definitely stay here again.
Christina R.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Emma M.
Dec 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible Oasis!
We had the best time staying here! It is cultivated to be so comfortable and peaceful, and the homey touches are so welcoming. We particularly enjoyed the sauna and hot tub. It was the perfect place to host a bit group of a friends on a little vacation. Thank you!!
Emma M.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Terra N.
Nov 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
50th Birthday
My stay was excellent, Sherry was a great host very responsive when I had questions. The house is perfect for small groups a beautiful place to relax and connect with friend, I would definitely stay again.
Terra N.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Nancy P.
Nov 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for a Women's Weekend Getaway!
Fantastic property with a very responsive and helpful host! Perfect for our group of longtime middle aged moms/women whose main goal was to have a quiet place to re-connect. There was a hot tub, sauna and gas fire circle to keep the chilly evenings warm. None of us were brave enough to go in the pool in November but several of us enjoyed paddle boarding and kayaking RIGHT off the deck connected to the property. The property is surrounded on most sides by water (the VRBO photo doesn't lie!). The beds were comfy and clean. There was a glitch or two with certain things not working, but Sherry was super responsive to any/all questions, providing timely answers including little videos demonstrating how to work something. Our privacy was respected. The neighborhood felt safe. There was a lovely flat walking path along the water a very short distance from the property. It would work well for a large family/friend group as well - such as Thanksgiving since there were 2 dishwashers and 2 fridges and 2 stoves. Eclectic, peaceful and welcoming decor and landscaping. Felt very secluded and like a real getaway, even though located in a more urban environment. All in all a great property with a gracious host and we hope to be back soon!
Nancy P.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Don P.
Nov 5, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
I resort like property !!!
We Took our family out for a nice relaxing weekend very beautiful property hot tub swimming pool sauna I was like I was the four seasons beautiful bathrooms very beautiful home large and spacious great for large groups
Had a blast thanks so much !
Don P.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Roland L.
Oct 29, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous spot, great getaway
Lovely home with a spectacular location on the water. We enjoyed the pool and hot tube, gas fire with the water just feet away. Could not have been better!
Roland L.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
8/10 Good
John & Elke M., Walnut Creek
Sep 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
A great girls weekend with a beautiful backyard
five girlfriends and I stayed three nights here for my big 70th birthday. We cooked in one night we enjoyed the outside areas multiple times found a really nice tranquil place to set out and look at the water.
John & Elke M.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Walker L.
Aug 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great house
Great house. Best house manager I’ve ever dealt with in 25 years of vrbo.
Walker L.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Michelle B.
Jul 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place !
My kids loved the pool. They also enjoyed kayaking and fishing so close to the house. Great house for a family.
Michelle B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Mark H.
Jul 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great quiet stay on the canal
Perfect place for a family. Pickleweed park is a block away and the views around the canal and bay are epic. Host communicated very well. Would highly recommend.
Mark H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Amy S.
Jul 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Fun family stay
Had a wonderful time visiting family and Sherrys house allowed many of us to stay together. Beautiful backyard and worked perfectly for our whole family.
Amy S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Michele D.
Jun 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
We had the best time here!
My girlfriends and I stayed here for the weekend and had the best time! The house was clean, comfortable, and our host, Sherry was on the ball 24/7. She was incredibly responsive and communicative including having a technician on site within the hour of texting her about a minor issue. It was fixed and solved in no time and Sherry was very accommodating throughout our whole stay. The pool and hot tub were also a huge hit! This is also a great place to stay if you're looking to do a Napa trip. Highly recommend!
Michele D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Brian B.
May 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful spot!
For our family, this location was perfect. We had all we needed in the San Rafael, Corta Marte, Sausilito area while only being 30 min from Pier 39, Giants stadium and Fisherman’s wharf. Home was very spacious with everything we needed.
Property had everything we wanted including a million dollar view. It was clean and spacious. Sherry the host was responsive and communicated effectively. We will absolutely stay again!