Canal Travel Guide
San Rafael
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Air conditioning is great,Good size smart tv. GREAT WINDOW VIEW!
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Stayed in one of the premier rooms. It was older and needed updating. Beds were comfy tho. Walking distance to Union Square lots of places to eat nearby.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Clean, modern and comfortable room. Amazing breakfast buffet. Steps away from piers and Muni buses/trolley stops. Make sure you buy Muni day pass, no rental car is needed if you stay at Riu.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Room was tiny. Nice to have a towel warmer, but accessible from shower so towel got cold before it could be used.
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Hotel Julian
Clean room & staff was okay. Had 24 hour security which was nice. No valet parking like the website states, breakfast was not available & the restaurant was not open at all like it was advertised on the website either anytime i had a question in regards to either , staff had no answer.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Embassy Hotel
Hotel is very fancy and clean but no air conditioning which sucked. Radiator was making noise all night which made it hard to sleep. Staff is very friendly.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Canal
Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel 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 Marin Country Mart.
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 Falkirk Cultural Center.
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 Larkspur Ferry Terminal 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 Peacock Gap Golf Club are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
