Explore Marin County CA on a day trip of forest drives and gorgeous beaches. End the day dining in Sausalito right on San Francisco Bay.
Marin County Region Is Sandwiched Between “The City” and Wine Country
Where exactly is Marin County CA? It’s a Northern California region, sandwiched between San Francisco in the south and the wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. Highway 101, known as “the one oh one”, runs through from the Golden Gate Bridge up through to Wine Country.
The Regions Within Marin County CA
Marin County is marked by a number of very clear eco areas. This includes forests with windy roads, long sandy beaches, and stark cliff coastal habitats. The climate is quite temperate compared to other Northern California regions where the temperatures can drop dramatically or rise excessively depending on the season.
We were there in spring and found the weather to be absolutely comfortable with the exception of the wind on the beaches. For that, we needed jackets as a cold, stiff wind whipped up the sands and trees along the coast.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking trails in Muir Woods, Mount Tamalpais and even around Stinson Beach while those with less appetite for adventure will love Sausalito with its easy small town walking and shopping options.
The Drive To Stinson Beach
If you love exploring areas that are still wild, Stinson Beach is at the center of a gorgeous drive through the Marin Peninsula. A brief and very green drive through hills full of trees, twisty roads and hidden homes lands you at the mouth of a tidewater basin. There are seals and pups lounging on the shores and in the shallow waters.
Exploring Stinson Beach
After leaving the headlands, you end up in a small coastal town with a few shops and restaurants before you reach the main entrance to Stinson Beach. Trees and bluffs block the view initially. There are multiple entry points with one for the restrooms and showers, another where there are just tree-lined sandy paths to the shore.
I gotta tell you, Stinson Beach is stunning even on a chilly, windy day. It is a long stretch of white, sandy shoreline looking out on the white-capped peaks of the Pacific Ocean. The point is far away to the north end of the beach while rocky cliffs take over to the south. I could have sat on these view benches far longer than I did that day but there was more to do that day.
Relax and Grab A Bite At Parkside Cafe
Without a doubt, I would advise hanging out in this area. There are quick options for grabbing a bite that you can take with you to the beach or if you want to head back into the headlands for a longer look at the sea lions. By the time you arrive in the beach area it may be lunch time anyway. We grabbed a few snacks but others had meals which looked pretty darn good for a beachside cafe. We were at Parkside Cafe located right near the parking area to Stinson Beach.
Exhilarating Marin County Drive Through Mount Tamalpais State Park
Now, I would be lying if I didn’t include this winding, spine tingling stretch of the trek. Thankfully, we had an amazing friend who had no qualms at all about the hairpin turns and steep drop offs. She was fearless!
Additionally, make sure you have someone drive comfortable with these conditions and a different person, other than the driver, snap some beautiful scenery. There is absolutely no way you could do both!
We were actually driving through Mount Tamalpais State Park. I was impressed with the elevations and variety of terrain I could see just from the vehicle alone. On a clear day you may even be able to spot the Farallon Islands 25 miles out to sea. There is camping and other activities since it is a state park as well.
Above all, long after we got home, the debate rages regarding this particular photo. Is the moon in the top left of this photo or just a smudge on the windshield?
Sausalito Waterfront
Unquestionably, I was glad to reach Sausalito on the other side of the drive around the point. It felt nice to be away from the sheer cliffs and hairpin turns. A quick walk around the main street along the docks made for a nice little shopping venture.
Honestly, though, we were with friends which he hadn’t seen for a few years. On top of that, we were on our first trip since health restrictions were lifted. Sharing a meal and conversation was really all we needed.
We meandered along the waterfront for some time, grabbing a craft beer at a hip spot. Barrel House Tavern has a terrific menu! So if you want to wander and grab a bite this is a beautiful spot. Just check out these views! You can actually can see out to infamous Alcatraz.
In our post, How To Make The Most of a Day in San Francisco, we visit Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square all along the northern shore.
Perfect View Restaurant In Sausalito
Playing tourist with local friends we enjoyed taking their lead on what to do and where to eat. They wanted to try a place that had views and good seafood so we went to Salito’s Crab House & Prime Rib.
Our view was wide open to San Francisco Bay, not even glass to obstruct the sunset! The drinks and food were good but the company and the ocean breeze were the shining stars this night. Between the service and the good eats we thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was a perfect way to cap the day!
Marin County Last Impressions
Have you ever visited a place knowing full well there is far more to do than you accomplished in your first visit? For us, Marin County CA has so much to offer for return trips. We already have a list brewing for another day trip to the area including exploring Point Reyes, the headlands with its sea life on full display, and even the seminary famous for its weddings. The Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau (www.visitmarin.org) has an amazing downloadable visitors guide linked here for you.
If you want to know more about San Francisco, just use the search bar on this blog to find the entire series. We also had our first wine tasting at Castello di Amorosa in Napa Valley on this trip.
Great article regarding Marin County! Will share on my real estate sites!
Madeline Schaider
http://www.livinginmarin.com
415-515-9357
Thank you very much. Marin was beautiful but deserves another visit! There was far more to explore that we just didn’t have the time for this last trip. Feel free to tag us on whatever social platforms you use so we can give you a follow back.
This Marin County CA guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!