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The culturally diverse town of San Rafael is the oldest city in Marin, and is the county seat. With parklands and open space accounting for nearly 30 percent of the city's land, there is a thriving natural environment to enjoy outdoor recreation. San Rafael is approximately 22 square miles, the second largest city in Marin after Novato. It is an ideal area for biking, jogging, and hiking in the beautiful hills surrounding the community. Windsurfing, sailing, and boating are also popular activities near San Rafael with multiple marinas and boat launches for easy access to the San Francisco Bay.

San Rafael’s deep-rooted history in Marin County can still be felt today. Many of the turn-of-the-century buildings have been restored and are beautiful remnants of times past. These buildings include the Marin History Museum, the Falkirk Cultural Center, and the 106-year-old Dominican University. The Marin Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is an architectural treasure and a nationally designated historical landmark. San Rafael offers a temperate, Mediterranean climate, lively business district, excellent school system and variety of neighborhoods.