West End Travel Guide
San Rafael
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Great location AC is very loud, we have to turn it off in order to sleep
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Big room, nice facility, great location!
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Clean room, close to shopping and pier
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
We had a jr suite and it was fantastic. Will stay here again if attending the Civic center or Orpheum. Check in and Check out is a breeze. No parking at the hotel.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
Yes
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
The Marker Union Square San Francisco
Room service was absolutely the worst I've ever had.
Reviewed on 6 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.
Fairhills
When in Fairhills, you can plan a visit to Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin History Museum, 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 Classic Billiards.
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.
