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Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views

Photo gallery for Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views

view of backyard from water
Outside patio.
Living area
Warm fireplace
Living area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8208.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
San Rafael, CA
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Dominican University of California
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Marin County Civic Center
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • San Rafael, CA (SRF)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 3

1 Double Sofa Bed

Blue Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Yellow Bedroom

1 Crib, 1 Single Bed and 1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Downstairs Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bedroom Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views

A beautiful sunny spot located in Marin County, just minutes from the amazing San Francisco Bay waters.

You are in the perfect spot between San Francisco and the famous Napa and Sonoma Wine Countries. Enjoy the sun at home, or take the day in the city, or wine tasting and more.

Plenty of light and windows, with beautiful sunsets.

2244 sq ft - 3 bed - 2 bath

** a signed agreement and security deposit ($1700) required.

Lots of activities right outside your door. * Birdwatching* Kayaking (provided)* Fishing* Boating* Paddle boarding (provided)* Swimming

Plenty of amenities: * Outdoor fire pit (propane)* Indoor fireplace (natural gas)* Two kayaks and one paddle board* Laundry washer and dryer inside home* Fully equipped kitchen* BBQ Grill* Baby crib (Pak and Play) available upon request* Lots of indoor and outdoor seating* Master Bedroom has private balcony

This is a great spot to launch to for off-site activities:* Hiking* WineTasting* San Francisco* Big Redwoods and beaches* Marin Headlands / Pt Reyes* Napa Valley Wine Country* Sonoma Valley Wine Country* And more....

There is parking in the driveway for two cars. Street parking is not allowed for Short-Term-Rental guests per city laws.

There is laundry available inside, bbq grill, cable TV, internet, fireplace, and central heating.

BED SUMMARY* Upstairs master bedroom: king bed, two chaise lounges (can be used as twin beds, great for children), one couch/futon (twin sized) - up to 5 people** Downstairs bedroom A: queen bed, twin rollaway in closet - up to 3 people** Downstairs bedroom B: queen bed - up to 2 people** Family room: sofa bed (full/regular sized) - up to 2 people** Living Room: sectional and chaise lounge can be used as additional sleeping areas.

Linens (sheets, blanket, pillows) and towels (one bath, one hand, one washcloth - per person) provided. (Plus a few extras just in case)

A security deposit is required for most reservations. See house manual & rules for details.

There is parking in driveway (2 cars - no street parking allowed by city ordinance), washer and dryer (in home), bbq grill, digital cabe, internet WiFi, and fire pit (propane).

Access to water and private dock, kayaks, and paddle board. Swimming off the dock is allowed.

No access to garage, or boat.

If you want tips, I would be happy to help you. I was born and raised in the area. I love sharing what I know and places I love.

The neighborhood is a combination of marina homes like ours, other local homes, and apartment buildings.

* Public park and open space great for relaxing, running, beautiful walks along the water, birdwatching, and often you will find food trucks and vendors around the area.

* Local Bus Stop at the end of the block (2min walk)

* Golden Gate Ferry w/ service to San Francisco (5min drive)

* Waterfront offers on-water activities, and walking / jogging trails

* UBER and Lyft operate fully in the area* SMART Traing (Sonoma Marin Rapid Transit) north bound * Local Bus Service within San Rafael* Golden Gate Transit Bus Stop at end of street (north or south routes)* Golden Gate Ferry w/ service to San Francisco (5 min drive)* San Francisco offers bus, trolley, light rail, trains, and subway - and of course Cable Cars!

PLEASE NOTE: There are some 18+ transit agencies in the Bay Area. Each has its own ticketing and fare systems. If you plan to use ANY public transportation please let me know so I can provide you with re-fillable access cards so you can avoid multi-tickets and also will give you a discount on fares and ticketing for all transit agencies automatically ( Clipper Cards).

I use a self checkin process. A smart phone is recommended, you will not need internet access, just bluetooth capability turned on.

If you do not have a smartphone or prefer physical keys please let me know when you book and I can work something out with you.

Early checkin upon request, when possible. Early checkins $35 per hour prior to 4pm, first hour free. Always happy to take luggage early, no charge.

Agreement will be sent as soon as we receive your email address. Deposit and agreement required for bookings. All adult guests required to be registered.

I can arrange for additional items: (please ask in advance when possible so we have time to prepare)* flowers* candles* breakfast delivered * romantic dinner on patio* laundry service* winery and brewery tastings/tours* grocery order & delivery* wine evening (with or w/o cheese, pate, etc)

If you have any special requests, or questions please do let me know.

Property manager

Timothy Snead
Premier Host

Languages

English, French

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Gym

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Any animals need to be pre-approved, maximum 2. A
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed outside.
ID verification, rental agreement, security deposit required
max 8 occupancy, 2 vehicles (off street only parking - no street parking), quiet hours after 9pm - all per city laws.
Read and follow all house rules in agreement and house manual at property.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

San Rafael

Located in San Rafael, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Muir Woods National Monument and Golden Gate Bridge are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park or Golden Gate Fields. Kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Map
San Rafael, CA

What's nearby

  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 4 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Dominican University of California - 6 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 6 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Marin County Civic Center - 6 min drive - 6.9 km
  • China Camp State Park - 10 min drive - 6.7 km

Getting around

  • Berkeley Station - 19 min drive
  • Oakland, CA (OAK-Oakland Intl.) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mi Pueblo Food Center - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Burger King - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Sunrise Donuts - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Picante - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Yu Shang Mandarin Restaurant & Sushi Bar - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Family Waterfront Retreat: Fireplace, Kayaks & Bay Views located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 2 mi (3.3 km) from Marin Country Mart and 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from San Francisco Bay. Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.0/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quick Overnight
Super cute, comfortable home with plenty of space for our family of 5 and golden lab. Right along water and lots of amenities. Would stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home away from home
We absolutely loved our stay. The home was large but cozy and so well equipped with everything we needed. We made many meals in the kitchen, enjoyed a fire on the outside deck, and even used the kayaks in January! Beds were comfortable and linens were clean and warm. The snacks and coffee were very much appreciated. I hope to come back one day. Thank you for a wonderful family holiday.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Comfortable House, great time!
This house has everything you need to be comfortable! Listed for 8, comfortable for 6 adults as there are 3 bedrooms. No privacy for the pullout couch but again, not a problem because we didn't use it.Great welcome snacks and a cool coffee corner with snack, Kpods, Npods and beans! Nice addition, thank you! The house has a great outdoor space on a deadend of the canal. It was raining sideways when we visited but this outdoor space is awesome! We'll be back in the summer to enjoy it! Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tricia H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Stay
Beautiful and centrally located! Close enough to still enjoy San Francisco. The home is immaculate. I can’t wait to come back! Thank you for the hospitality! Also, there is a nice play ground across the street if traveling with children.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Kimberle

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cindy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Oasis in Sausalito
What a perfect house!!!! Beautiful view, comfortable beds, well stocked home, immaculate and orderly!!!! Excellent communication from our host. Instructions and rules are very clear and we felt very welcome!!! We can’t wait to come back!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

chris e.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Midsummer Nights Dream
We came to town to see our daughter in a play of the same name. Great place, modern and clean. Misfortune that washing machine broke down while there, and was unable to fix. Nobody’s fault as stuff happens.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sittin On The Dock If a Bay...
The house was well appointed, and the view from the expansive deck across the canal was spectacular. We swam, kayaked, enjoyed the fire pit and just sat on the dock of the bay. We had a great time!greattime
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justin P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent
an overall enjoyable experience. location was perfect. House and amenities were above and beyond what we expected!
Stayed 17 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Friends staying
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

tara j.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Home…perfect!
My family and I took two weeks and traveled down the west coast. This was one of the most beautiful homes that we stayed in over the two weeks! It was clean and the home owners paid attention to every detail! They had everything that you could think of waiting for our stay! I wish we could have stayed longer!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Family House
Beautiful waterfront home with many amenities. Outdoor deck is perfect for gathering with family and friends. The host is outstanding. Will visit again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

beth b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family gathering
The property is just beautiful and has all the amenities you can dream of. We enjoyed our stay and hope to visit this house again
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Victoria A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Napa/San Francisco trip
Timothy’s Waterfront property was perfect for our family’s trip to visit wine country and the San Francisco area. Our host was exceptional to communicate with and his home is most welcoming. The view from the patio is wonderful for sipping coffee in the morning and beverages in the afternoon and evening. Only wish we had stayed longer!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stress reducing vacation
Between the comfortable beds, well stocked kitchen, easy check-in and communicative host this is already an excellent rental. All the snacks, the coffee bar, the travel toiletries, etc we're easy account and beyond. We loved using the kayaks. Host was very communicative. Pictures are exactly what you get. We had the most relaxing time. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hillary R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing House and views- Highly recommend!!
House checked every box on our list (and we’re pretty picky) and then some. Incredible views, awesome amenities- from the coffee bar with espresso, Keurig etc and breakfast goodies, to the snack basket with sweet and savory, to kitchen condiments, and even toiletries! Every kitchen gadget you could want, ice maker and filtered water. Easy to get to San Francisco and surrounding area. Highly recommend! Would absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfy Bay Home
Uniquely appointed, lots of sailing/boating artifacts, goodies everywhere, comfy rooms, lots of recipe books in many languages, host responds quickly.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely and well appointed.
Thoughtful ammenities like condiments in the kitchen, coffee bar, and cute snack basket. The deck would be a delight in warm weather. My daughter and I stayed one night and wished we could stay another. I will definately try to book again the next time I am in the area. Stayed in late January.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ray C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best Vacation rental ever!
This was the best Vacation rental that my family has used. So many thoughtful details from the complimentary snacks which greeted us at the door upon entry, to USB chargers attached to the master bed frame. My only minor complaint was the upstairs shower had very finicky temperature control.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Better than we even expected!
The house comes with everything you need and more. The patio is huge and perfect for a day outside in the Marin sunshine! Read all the rules carefully
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

OLGA E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super!
Great accommodation. Great host. Very clean house. Only warning: If you're doing kayaking, learn when low tides
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

JC M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy
Family trip
Clean place, nice amenities.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023

8/10 Good

Susan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, listing accuracy
The house was beautifully appointed.kudos to owners for all the extra attention to many details,
Parking was the only hassle since can only accommodate 2 cars. We are not very tech savvy so the Ekey and internet access was frustrating but once in we really liked it.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

About the host

Hosted by Timothy Snead

Host profile image
I love sharing this incredible area with my guests. If you need any recommendations or have special requests, just let me know—I’m happy to help!

Why they chose this property

Just minutes from the sparkling San Francisco Bay, this sun-drenched home offers breathtaking views, modern comforts, and direct access to outdoor adventures.

✅ Waterfront Living: Private dock with kayaks and paddleboard included
✅ Spacious & Luxurious: 2,244 sq ft home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths & multiple living spaces
✅ Prime Location: Between San Francisco & Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma)

🏞 Outdoor Adventures at Your Doorstep:
* Private dock access for kayaking, paddleboarding & swimming
* Birdwatching, fishing & boating opportunities
* Scenic waterfront trails for walking & jogging

🔥 Luxury Home Comforts:
* Outdoor fire pit (propane) & indoor gas fireplace
* Fully equipped kitchen & BBQ grill
* Spacious master suite with a private balcony

👶 Family-Friendly Touches:
* Pack 'n Play (baby crib) available upon request
* Plenty of indoor & outdoor seating
* Public park and modern playground located just across the street

What makes this property unique

Lots of activities right outside your door.
* Birdwatching
* Kayaking (provided)
* Fishing
* Boating
* Paddle boarding (provided)
* Swimming


Plenty of amenities:
* Outdoor fire pit (propane)
* Indoor fireplace (natural gas)
* Two kayaks and one paddle board
* Laundry washer and dryer inside home
* Fully equipped kitchen
* BBQ Grill
* Baby crib (Pak and Play) available upon request
* Lots of indoor and outdoor seating
* Master Bedroom has private balcony

This is a great spot to launch to for off-site activities:
* Hiking
* WineTasting
* San Francisco
* Big Redwoods and beaches
* Marin Headlands / Pt Reyes
* Napa Valley Wine Country
* Sonoma Valley Wine Country
* And more....

There is parking in the driveway for two cars. Street parking is not allowed for STR (short-term-rental) guests per city ordinance.

There is laundry available inside, bbq grill, cable TV, internet, fireplace, and central heating.

If you have any special requests, or questions just ask. :)


BED SUMMARY
* Upstairs master bedroom: king bed, two chaise lounges (can be used as twin beds, great for children), one couch/futon (twin sized) - up to 5 people*
* Downstairs bedroom A: queen bed, twin rollaway in closet - up to 3 people*
* Downstairs bedroom B: queen bed - up to 2 people*
* Family room: sofa bed (full/regular sized) - up to 2 people*
* Living Room: sectional and chaise lounge can be used as additional sleeping areas.

Linens (sheets, blanket, pillows) and towels (one bath, one hand, one washcloth - per person) provided, plus a few extras just in case.

A security deposit ($1700) is required reservations. See house manual & rules for details.

Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests