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
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 West End
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Great location. Easy walk to Pier 39 where I enjoyed watching (and listening to) the sea lions. The hotel is very busy, staff are helpful when you can reach them. I called for two requests, one in the evening, and one early morning: my in-room refrigerator was not working upon my arrival (they replaced ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"We got a room on a lower floor overlooking rooftops. It was not great or worth the money we paid. I think the hotel is outdated. The air wasn’t working. The sheets were very scratchy. There are better properties in the City at a better value."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"San Francisco is one of the most expensive hotel cities the world...$250 for a single night on a Sunday for Bay to Breakers. Its normally a little cheaper than on any other weekend, but not much. But I will have to say, the premises and room were pristine and in top notch condition. Everything seemed ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
"Clean room"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Clean, and right for a few business nights."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
"Good hotel, close to strategic places."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around West End
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.
Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are some notable places to visit nearby.
