Canal Travel Guide
San Rafael
Popular places to visit

Marin County Civic Center
After visiting Marin County Civic Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Rafael. Wander the area's lush forest or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Mission San Rafael Arcangel
This mission in San Rafael, which still offers services, is an interesting destination to learn more about California’s religious history.

China Camp State Park
Enjoy a trip to China Camp State Park and popular activities such as hiking in San Rafael. Wander the lush forest in this family-friendly area.
Dominican University of California
Walk around the campus at Dominican University of California as part of your travels around San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market
You can enjoy retail therapy at Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market during your trip to San Rafael. Wander the area's lush forest or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Peacock Gap Golf Club
Play a round of golf in San Rafael at Peacock Gap Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as hiking. Wander the marina and lush forest in the area.
Things to do

Small Group Redwoods, California Coast & Sausalito Day Trip from San Francisco

Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Top hotels in Canal

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Located near Pier 39 so was close to attractions, tours, eateries and transport. The waterfront was a hive of activity with lots of shopping available.
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Elevators could be renovated, nothing major
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Loved the room with big windows over looking the city. Very convenient having a parking deck attached to hotel. Thanks for the hospitality.
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Good hotel good location. Sometimes miserable shorty tempered staff at reception.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
Every staff member was extremely accommodating and efficient, and there were always plenty of staff to serve behind the desk or as bellman, whatever was needed. We had a poolside room, very large and comfortable and super clean. The air conditioning was apparently not functioning in our wing but ...
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026

YOTEL San Francisco
Room was very comfortable and the room had a lot of space. Beautiful view with a very courteous staff. Bed was incredibly comfortable
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Canal

Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Francisco Boulevard West
While there might not be top attractions in Francisco Boulevard West, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.

Country Club
While Country Club may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.

Southeast San Rafael
While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart.

Bret Harte
Bret Harte might not have many top sights, but Marin Country Mart and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond might not have many top sights, but Mission San Rafael Arcangel and China Camp State Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
