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.
McNears Beach Country Park
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, McNears Beach Country Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to McNears Beach. Amble around the area's parks or visit its shops.
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 West End

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
This hotel is centrally located, close to just about anything you wanna do in the city. Not to mention that Waymo comes by every five minutes. Hotel was clean, the staff were super friendly, parking was easy but a little on the expensive side. We really felt that we got a lot of bang for the buck. ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
The staff were super friendly. Great location and a nice price.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Great place to stay with my family! The breakfast service was wonderful and the staff were kind and extremely helpful. Only 2 complaints: for the price, would’ve liked a microwave in the room. And the bathroom (toilet and shower) was super tiny. Overall, great experience!
Reviewed on 24 Apr 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
Pass
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Family of 7 with little ones here. We enjoyed our stay. It was nice and clean and the service was good. I didn't like that we had to pay for parking, $75/night. No breakfast and no microwave in our room. That was inconvenient. Besides that we had great time. The room had comfy beds and the bathroom ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Fairmont San Francisco
This hotel is dated and not worth the price that they charge. Had to have them fix the toilet twice and have them fix the sink because it wasn’t draining. The sink shouldn’t have drainage issues at this price and management should check these things. Wallpaper peeling. I get that it’s a historic ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around West End

Sun Valley
While Sun Valley may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center.

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 Marin History Museum.

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 Marin History Museum.

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.
