Montecito-Happy Valley Travel Guide
San Rafael
Visit Montecito-Happy Valley
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 Montecito-Happy Valley
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Very clean
Reviewed on 8 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The pool was closed for maintenance so we did not get to take advantage of it. It appears renovations throughout the hotel as they have done some updating. The updates are incomplete which is partially why the rating is a 3. When you update tile, some lighting and
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Ideal location to Fisherman’s Wharf. Easy walk to multiple restaurants. Clean and spacious room. Very comfortable bed. Breakfast Buffett was great selection however the food was mostly cold. No early checkin was available without an additional fee.
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
Clean room
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
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Other neighbourhoods around Montecito-Happy Valley
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.
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 Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Canal
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Canal and surrounding area, you can visit Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Downtown San Rafael
While visiting Downtown San Rafael, you might make a stop by sights like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Classic Billiards.
Dominican
While Dominican isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center are some notable places to visit nearby.
Lincoln
While there might not be top attractions in Lincoln, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center.
