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
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Breakfast was amazing. Best ever
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
No breakfast
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
This is our second time staying at this hotel and we loved it. We stayed on the top floor, this time with a city view, and it was lovely. This hotel is in a great location, right in the heart of Chinatown. We would definitely stay here again.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
clean and comfy bed but the rooms and bathrooms are very old, the carpet is full of stains and in very bad conditions. very small window with no views. no safety box.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The hotel location is perfect, close to everything in Union Square. However the guest overnight parking is $67 which is outrageous. I don’t care how expensive the city is. They should at least give a discount to the guest.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Was difficult to find close affordable parking. Tried calling the hotel to ask where I could find parking and the entire system is automated with no option to reach the front desk. Went inside to ask and the only staff member there was new and didn’t know the area at all. The closest lot is $40 a ...
Reviewed on 26 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 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.
