Canal Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
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.
Activities
Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
Our pick of the best Canal Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
The property was clean and staff friendly.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Everything was great
Reviewed on 9 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Clean room, free breakfast far exceeded expectations, outdoor heated pool a bonus if traveling with kids, location amazing
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Yes gym was great.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Great location and cozy rooms
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
Always a great option near the harbor. Affordable, no frills and a decent restaurant
Reviewed on 8 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 Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
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.
