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.
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

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

Muir Redwoods Tour from San Francisco
Top hotels in West End

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
The hotel location is fantastic and the stash are generally very helpful and courteous. My reason for a three star rating was based on personal issues like bed and pillow comfort and noise levels between rooms. The mattress being too soft for my back; and the pillows being too thick for my comfort ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
microwave in every floor of the building would be convenient for guest to warm food not going all the way down the main lobby carrying back aroma of the food up in the elevator with incoming guest situating in their rooms
Reviewed on 13 May 2026

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Great coffee station and lounge. Friendly staff
Reviewed on 12 May 2026

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Clean room but noisy. Safe parking.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026

Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
Conveniently located to public transportation. Friendly, informative staff especially Ryan at the front desk. He helped us at check-in and check-out. Great service each time.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
Clean and quiet
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around West End

Fairhills
When in Fairhills, you can plan a visit to Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park 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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.

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.

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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.

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.
