Canal 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
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour - Including Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Top hotels in Canal
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Good location, expensive parking and breakfast (it's a full buffet) - but you can usually get a "discount" when reserving thru a 3rd party. Overall good value for the city.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
It's good, but there is no parking garage. Need to walk from the public parking.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
So the check-in staff were friendly and helpful offering detailed instruction and information, the entire place was immaculate. Our room was spotless and spacious. The breakfast buffet was pretty incredible with a large selection of fresh food. The covered parking was convenient, however be aware ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
I like this place
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Premium king with balcony, the view was incredible, hotel was beautiful & clean, staff were helpful. Will be in my rotation of hotels I use for SF visits.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
ADA beds too high
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Canal
Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin History Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.
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.
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 Marin History Museum.
Southeast San Rafael
While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart.
Bret Harte
Bret Harte might not have many top sights, but Marin Country Mart and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond might not have many top sights, but Mission San Rafael Arcangel and China Camp State Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
