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

Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour

Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour

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

Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Top hotels in Canal

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Came back about 10 days ago . And I’m already looking forward to visit again. The location of the hotel is great! 3 minute walk from the beach , pier 39 is a 3 min walk , the cove is 10 minutes walk . Lots of restaurants and shopping. The hotel is well maintained , very clean and the staff is very ...
Reviewed on 15 May 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Inhospitable female front desk name shaniii assigned a room for me this particular room is designed for a disabled person,next to ice machine maker and old elevator we’re making so much noises,I went to lobby and brought to her attention, she was rolling her eyes and loudly told me we are sold out ...
Reviewed on 15 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

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Good service
Reviewed on 16 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 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.
