Marin County Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs in Marin County. Read on for a detailed itinerary, travel tips, and safety advice.


Introduction to Marin County

Marin County is a beautiful, affluent, and laid-back county located in the North Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area in California, United States. It is home to scenic landscapes, picturesque towns, and plenty of outdoor activities. Marin County offers a plethora of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. This travel guide provides a comprehensive overview of Marin County, including popular tourist spots, where to stay, what to eat, local customs and culture, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Marin County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Marin History Museum: The Marin History Museum is dedicated to celebrating the history of Marin County through exhibits, events, and educational programs.
  2. Novato History Museum: The Novato History Museum showcases the heritage of Novato and the surrounding region through artifacts, photographs, and artwork.
  3. Marin Museum of Contemporary Art: The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in Marin County and across the Bay Area.
  4. Mission San Rafael Arcangel: The Mission San Rafael Arcangel is a historic Catholic mission church that was founded in 1817.

Natural Attractions of Marin County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Tamalpais State Park: Mount Tamalpais State Park offers stunning views of the Bay Area and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking.
  2. Point Reyes National Seashore: Point Reyes National Seashore is a natural paradise with pristine beaches, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife.
  3. Muir Woods National Monument: Muir Woods National Monument is home to some of the tallest trees in the world and is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing.
  4. Tomales Bay: Tomales Bay is a scenic tidal estuary that offers kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marin County

Marin County is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise with numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some of the best routes:

  1. Dipsea Trail: The Dipsea Trail is a scenic 7-mile hiking trail that starts in Mill Valley and ends at Stinson Beach.
  2. Muir Beach Overlook Trail: The Muir Beach Overlook Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
  3. Tennessee Valley Trail: The Tennessee Valley Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that winds through coastal hills, a valley, and a beach.
  4. Mount Tamalpais East Peak: The Mount Tamalpais East Peak is a challenging 7-mile hike that starts at the Rock Spring trailhead and offers panoramic views of the Bay Area.

Best Things to Do in Marin County: Activities and Tours

  1. Wine Tasting Tour: Marin County has numerous wineries that offer wine tasting tours, such as the famous Napa Valley Wine Train, Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, and Sausalito Wine Walk.
  2. Sailing and Boating: Sailing and boating tours are very popular in Marin County, and tourists can rent boats or hire a tour guide to explore the San Francisco Bay.
  3. Farm Tours: Marin County farms, such as Marin Sun Farms, offer farm tours where tourists can see how sustainable farming works and learn about organic food.
  4. Art Walk: Marin County has a thriving arts and culture scene, and visitors can take a self-guided art walk or join a tour of galleries and art studios.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marin County

If you have a week to explore Marin County, here is a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit the Point Reyes National Seashore and go hiking or birdwatching.
  • Day 2: Take a wine tasting tour in Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley.
  • Day 3: Spend the day exploring the Muir Woods National Monument and have a picnic.
  • Day 4: Go sailing or boating in San Francisco Bay.
  • Day 5: Take a farm tour and learn about sustainable farming.
  • Day 6: Visit the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art or explore the local art galleries.
  • Day 7: Relax and go to the beach at Stinson Beach or Limantour Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Marin County

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Oysters: Marin County is famous for its fresh and delicious oysters. Some of the best places to try oysters are Hog Island Oyster Company and The Marshall Store.
  2. Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Marin County is known for its sustainable and organic farms, and many restaurants offer farm-to-table cuisine. Some of the best restaurants to try are Farmshop and Fish.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine: Marin County has numerous vineyards and wineries that produce world-class wines, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
  2. Beer: Marin County has several excellent craft breweries, including Marin Brewing Company and Iron Springs Pub & Brewery.
  3. Coffee: Marin County is also known for its artisanal coffee roasters, such as Equator Coffees & Teas and Marin Coffee Roasters.

Where to Stay in Marin County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Cavallo Point Lodge: The Cavallo Point Lodge is a luxury hotel that offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay, spa services, and fine dining.
  2. HI Marin Headlands Hostel: The HI Marin Headlands Hostel offers budget accommodation in a rustic setting with easy access to hiking trails and the beach.
  3. The Lodge at Tiburon: The Lodge at Tiburon is a quaint and charming hotel located in the heart of Tiburon, with easy access to the ferry to San Francisco.

What to Buy in Marin County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Marin County Art: Marin County has a thriving arts and culture scene, and visitors can buy local artwork, such as paintings, sculpture, and photography.
  2. Organic Farms Products: Many of the farms in Marin County offer organic food products, such as honey, olive oil, and cheese, which make great souvenirs.
  3. Oyster Shells: Taking home a few oyster shells is a great way to remember your visit to Marin County.

Local Culture and Customs of Marin County

Marin County is a unique and diverse community with a strong focus on sustainability, organic farming, and the arts. Visitors should respect the local customs and etiquette, such as recycling, composting, and using public transportation. Marin County is also a progressive and inclusive community that values diversity and welcomes people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Best Time to Visit Marin County

The best time to visit Marin County is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, even in the winter, Marin County is a great place to visit with plenty of indoor activities and scenic views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marin County

Do:

  • Do try the fresh and delicious oysters.
  • Do respect the local customs and etiquette.
  • Do explore the natural beauty of the Point Reyes National Seashore and the Muir Woods National Monument.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring a jacket, even in the summer.
  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations and advice.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marin County

Marin County is a safe and friendly place to visit, but as with any place, visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Tourists should lock their cars and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. When going hiking or biking, visitors should stay on marked trails and carry plenty of water.

Health in Marin County

Marin County has excellent health facilities and hospitals, and visitors should have no problems finding medical care if needed. Tourists should be aware of the dangers of sunburn and dehydration and take appropriate precautions.

Getting to Marin County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marin County

Marin County is located near several major airports, including San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK), and Sacramento International Airport (SMF). There are numerous shuttle services and rental car agencies located at each airport.

Bus Stations Near Marin County

Marin County is served by several bus services, including Golden Gate Transit and Marin Transit, which provide transportation within the county and to other Bay Area cities.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Marin County by ferry from San Francisco, bike over the Golden Gate Bridge, or take a scenic drive along Highway 101 or Highway 1.

How to Get Around in Marin County

Marin County has an extensive network of buses, ferries, and trains that provide transportation within the county and to neighboring cities. Visitors can also rent a car, taxi, or ride-hailing service for more flexibility and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Marin County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marin County is located near several popular destinations in the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Sonoma Valley. Visitors can easily take a day trip to explore these places or extend their stay to enjoy everything they have to offer.

Conclusion

Marin County is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, visitors can explore all that Marin County has to offer. This travel guide provides a comprehensive overview of Marin County and will help tourists plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of California.

Golden Gate Ferry Golden Gate Ferry Point Reyes Lighthouse Point Reyes Lighthouse


    Fairfax
    Marin Headlands
    Mill Valley
    Point Reyes National Seashore
    San Anselmo
    San Rafael
    Sausalito
    Tiburon