AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

4.0 star property
Hotel with 2 restaurants, near Dominican University of California

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

2 restaurants, breakfast served
Rooftop bar
Meeting facility
Lobby
Exterior

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
1201 5TH AVENUE, San Rafael, CA, 94901
  • Place, Mission San Rafael Arcangel
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Dominican University of California
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(18 reviews)
  • 323 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Suite, 1 Bedroom

  • 427 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room, 1 King Bed, Mountain View

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 320 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room, 2 Queen Beds, Mountain View

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

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • 320 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds (Hearing Accessible)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 320 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • 427 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed (Hearing Accessible)

  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

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

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

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

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

  • 320 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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

  • 322 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

About the neighborhood

San Rafael

Located in Downtown San Rafael, AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from Dominican University of California and within a 10-minute drive of other popular attractions like San Francisco Bay. This 140-room, 4-star hotel has free in-room WiFi along with a rooftop terrace and a 24-hour business center.

What's nearby

  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Classic Billiards - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Falkirk Cultural Center - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Dominican University of California - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles

Getting around

  • Berkeley Station - 21 min drive
  • Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Pink Owl Coffee - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The Burren House - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Garden Cafe - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪California Gold - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Il Davide - ‬4 min walk

About this property

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

Hotel with 2 restaurants, near Dominican University of California
Guests of AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown enjoy a rooftop terrace, free WiFi in public areas, and meeting rooms. Self parking is offered for USD 29 per day. The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with luggage storage, concierge services, and dry cleaning/laundry. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls. Additional amenities include conference space, a 24-hour business center, and a computer station.
32-inch LCD TVs come with cable channels and Netflix, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Pillowtop beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hydromassage showers, hair dryers, and designer toiletries. Sitting areas, coffee makers, and free local calls are also available. Housekeeping is available on request.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

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 self 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

Restaurants on site

  • Above Fifth
  • AC Kitchen
  • AC Lounge

Family friendly

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

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Grocery/convenience store
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 24-hour business center
  • 925 square feet of conference space
  • Computer station
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • In a nature reserve
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Rooftop terrace

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

More

  • 1 building
  • 6 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Biodegradable coffee stirrers available
  • Built in 2023
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

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

Entertainment

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

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50.00 per accommodation, per night
  • 2 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 2 kids 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • 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 list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

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)
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-1:00 AM
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply), along with a car charging station.

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.
  • This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Mobile payment options include: Apple Pay.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.
  • 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).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • Parking has height restrictions.
  • 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

Is free cancellation available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to see within easy reach of AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

This hotel is situated in Downtown San Rafael, just steps from Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center, and within a short walk of San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park. You'll also find San Francisco Bay and China Camp State Park within a short drive.

Is there parking available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

Yes, secured parking is offered for USD 29 per day with in/out privileges. Though parking is limited, accessible parking and electric car charging are also available.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown include a casino at the property?

No, AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown good for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this hotel, including Champagne service as well as a bar and 2 restaurants.

Are there hot tubs at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown has 2 restaurants, and serves self-serve breakfast each morning for a surcharge.

Will AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown for a fee of USD 50.00 per accommodation, per night. The property also provides food and water bowls.

Are there connecting rooms at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

How far is the airport from AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

The closest major airport to AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown is Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), which is about 25 mi away. Another top airport is Concord, CA (CCR-Buchanan Field), which is around 25.8 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown?

No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown.

Does AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown have a wedding venue on site?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown.

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 163 out of 225 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 36 out of 225 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 225 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 10 out of 225 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 225 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nathaniel

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

James T

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Staff were friendly and offered parking solutions. I would request away from elevators in the future. Nice amenities in the neighborhood.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

beautiful room. staff was wonderful
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
beautiful place. staff was great and rooftop bar is amazing!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I was so pleased with my stay at AC Hotel San Rafael. It definitely exceeded my expectations, and if I am every in town again, this would definitely be my choice to stay. The staff was super friendly and helpful, the food and drinks at the onsite restaurants were wonderful, and the room was beautiful, clean, large, and comfortable. It was also in a prime location to walk to coffee shops, stores, and restaurants in town. Definitely a prime spot to choose if you're looking to stay in the area!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Tal

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vic

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Justine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The rain showerhead was tilted the wrong way so after finishing there was a huge puddle of water almost out to the bed. We adjusted it. Then the safe which worked fine at first wouldn't open. It kept saying error. The first girl couldn't fix it so I had to wait for someone else to take it apart. Then I came back at 4pm and our room was still not made up. Not a good first experience for our initial stay at your hotel.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

CJ

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We didn’t have breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Austin

They had a party on the roof deck that went till well after 11 PM was super loud in the rooms
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Donna

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Was not happy to have to pay for parking.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brett

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

10/10 Excellent

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Thank you for the complimentary water.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sandra

Traveled with group, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property, professional and courteous, and lovely place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Andrea

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dania

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

David, Vancouver

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Leslie

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

10/10 Excellent

William

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

leslie

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chrystal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Amazing weekend
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Milah

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Avery

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025