Canal
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

Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour

Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise

San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour

Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour + Bay Cruise Adventure
Top hotels in Canal

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Close everything
Reviewed on 29 Mar, 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
Staff helpful and courteous
Reviewed on 29 Mar, 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Fantastic location, great staff, easy parking and clean room. Complimentary breakfast was impressive as well. Did not use or check out any of the amenities so unable to rate beyond the standards.
Reviewed on 30 Mar, 2026

YOTEL San Francisco
I’ll take the hit for not better preparing myself for the terrible parking situation. For those that haven’t been in downtown San Francisco in a while it’s as disgusting and urine filled as ever. I wasn’t excited about the $40 tourism charge upon check-in even though I had prepaid on Expedia. And ...
Reviewed on 30 Mar, 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
nice
Reviewed on 29 Mar, 2026

Hilton San Francisco Union Square
Clean and staff was very nice. Will definitely stay here again. Parking is $70 a night but it is secured. Location is very convenient as well.
Reviewed on 30 Mar, 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 Classic Billiards.

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 Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.

Bret Harte
Bret Harte might not have many top sights, but Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal 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 Peacock Gap Golf Club are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
