West End 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.
Marin History Museum
You can spend time studying the exhibits at Marin History Museum in San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
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.
Things to do
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
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)
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Ultimate Electric SF Bike Tour- food, icons & local hidden gems
Top hotels in West End
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Nice place and clean. Felt safe.
Reviewed on 25 Nov 2025
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
There wasnt much in the direct vicinity of the hotel but great location for public transport and the hotel has wonderful views and modern clean rooms. I wish the lobby was upgraded but the staff was grear!
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Excellent!!!
Reviewed on 27 Nov 2025
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Staff was friendly. The room wasn't as clean as I expected for The Hyatt. There was a terd in the toilet as well as thick dust in the coffee area.
Reviewed on 27 Nov 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
Older property but staff are great. Good affordable spot for a day or two.
Reviewed on 28 Nov 2025
Fairmont San Francisco
yes
Reviewed on 24 Nov 2025
Other neighbourhoods around West End
Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Anselmo Town Hall are some notable places to visit nearby.
Downtown San Rafael
While visiting Downtown San Rafael, you might make a stop by sights like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Classic Billiards.
Los Ranchitos
Los Ranchitos might not have many top sights, but Marin County Civic Center and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Picnic Valley
While there might not be top attractions in Picnic Valley, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart.
Canal Waterfront
While Canal Waterfront isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart are some notable places to visit nearby.
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.
West End Travel Guide
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Pier 39
- Golden Gate Park
- Oracle Park
- San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island
- Presidio of San Francisco
- Muir Woods National Monument
- University of California
- Ferry Building
- Union Square
- Embarcadero Center
- Palace of Fine Arts
- Ocean Beach
- California Academy of Sciences
- San Francisco Zoo
- Walt Disney Family Museum
