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
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
All California Self Guided Audio Tours, from SF to LA
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
San Francisco Guided City Tour with Alcatraz Island
Top hotels in Canal
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
The room was clean but the bed was very firm. The bathtub wouldn’t drain after its first use but they did fix it the next day. The breakfast was incredible. The staff were cheerful and helpful. It was in easy walking distance of everything I wanted to do while in San Francisco. I did however only ...
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
We could’ve used a microwave in the room. Also parking price was not clear, it is available at about $74 a day. Convenient if you need a handicap or disabled person staying in the area. Great location for walking.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
My room was clean and comfortable, and the hotel in general was well kept up. I have no complaints--and the price was more than reasonable.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Amenities were great and location was the best. The hotel staff were courteous and the coffee option in the lobby was the best. Everything about this hotel is a flying star.
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
PARKING way to COSTLY per night .
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
all good
Reviewed on 15 May 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.
California Park
While California Park isn't home to many top sights, Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart 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 Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
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.
