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.
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 Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Top hotels in West End
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
I had a great stay. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the room was clean and comfortable. The breakfast was great and they had various options. The hotel can get a bit busy at times, but overall it was a really good experience.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The kids and I had a wondeful stay!
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Breakfast buffet was good, easy to access, quick line.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Decent coffee and baked goods at breakfast. For some reason, my room wasn't cleaned unless I asked specifically.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Queen Bed was comfy and pillows were really nice. Very clean room. Only negative was the size of the room.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
The food, the rooms, the views everything about this hotel is fantastic
Reviewed on 10 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 Falkirk Cultural Center, 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.
