Nestled at the base of the majestic San Pedro Mountain in San Rafael, Dominican is a gracefully landscaped neighborhood renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, mature trees, and a captivating mix of historic and unique homes. Often described as a "coveted San Rafael suburb," Dominican offers a perfect blend of cultural richness, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.

 

• Architectural Diversity & Elegance: Dominican boasts an impressive array of architectural styles. You’ll find charming mid-century abodes and California bungalows from the 1950s and '60s alongside grand, early 20th-century estates that once served as hunting lodges for wealthy San Francisco families. Many homes are set on generous lots, offering privacy and often featuring stunning views of the San Rafael Bay and surrounding woodlands.
• Dominican University of California: A cornerstone of the neighborhood, Dominican University contributes significantly to the area's intellectual and cultural vibrancy. Its picturesque campus is a community amenity, offering beautiful grounds for strolls, and its Conlan Recreation Center (with a pool, fitness center, and tennis courts) is open to all Dominican residents, fostering a lively and engaged atmosphere.
• Nature at Your Doorstep: The neighborhood’s winding, tree-lined roads extend to the edges of several forested nature preserves. Residents enjoy immediate access to scenic hiking and nature walks through areas like the San Pedro Mountain Preserve and Harry Barbier Memorial Park. These open spaces offer rugged trails, rolling woodlands, redwood stands, and open grasslands adorned with wildflowers in spring.
• Walkable & Community-Oriented: Despite its serene feel, Dominican is a community for walkers. Morning treks on the trails or evening strolls through the university campus are popular pastimes. This active outdoor lifestyle, combined with shared community amenities, cultivates a strong, welcoming sense of belonging among residents.

Dominican offers a balanced lifestyle, providing a quiet, high-end residential experience with excellent accessibility to San Rafael's dynamic offerings.

 

• Convenient Location: Bounded by Highway 101 to the west and the Montecito shopping area to the south, Dominican is a "commuter's dream." Residents have easy access to shops, services, and quick routes to other parts of Marin and beyond.
• Dining & Shopping: While primarily residential, Dominican's proximity to downtown San Rafael means a diverse array of dining, boutiques, art galleries, and cultural attractions are just minutes away. Grocery stores like United Markets and Trader Joe's are also conveniently located.

Dominican is proudly served by the San Rafael City Schools district, providing excellent educational opportunities. Key schools in the area include:

• Coleman Elementary, Public, K-5
• Davidson Middle School, Public, 6-8
• San Rafael High School, Public, 9-12