Marin County Beaches

It's pretty wonderful living in an outdoor lover's paradise. Wake up on a sunny day, check the sky, load up with something eat, and go to the beach. 

Here's a few of the Marin local's favorite beaches:

Rodeo Beach. Just south of Sausalito, go through the one way tunnel (two way traffic that takes turns), and you'll enter into another world once guarded by former forts Barry and Cronkhite. It's a good spot for waves, and one can usually see surfers waiting in the swells for their next run. This beach is mostly sheltered by cliffs, and there are picnic benches, barbecue pits, and outdoor showers. Decent parking is close by overlooking the beach and alongside Rodeo Lagoon.

Limantour Beach.  A West Marin beach sheltered by Point Reyes Peninsula. The waves are calmer here, and one can often see flocks of pelicans following the shore in formation, harbor seals, and even an occasional grey whale.  This is a lovely sandy stretch between Drakes Bay and the estuary on the Point Reyes National Seashore. 

Stinson Beach. Take the Panoramic Highway road through the Mt Tam redwoods. Rounding a curve, you'll be greeted by a dramatic view of Stinson's broad swathe of sand and charming hillside homes. This is Marin's most popular beach community offering a pleasant combination of nature and facilities. Parkside Snack Bar, Sand Dollar Restaurant, Parkside Cafe, and Breakers Cafe are all right along the beach.

Muir Beach. Muir Beach is a quiet cove, beach, and lagoon favored by locals. Light a bonfire and enjoy the vibe! There's a marsh leading to a secluded cove, and a hiking trail right above the beach leading to Marin Headlines.  Want to go clothing optional?  Head to the northernmost end of the beach. While you're in the area, check out the Muir Beach Overlook on the other side of town. It's an amazing iconic spot accessed by a long rambling walkway with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Ayala Cove. Located on Angel Island, which is the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay. Accessed by the Tiburon Angel Island Ferry, or by boat. Fantastic views and interesting history as a quarantine site and immigration station. The picnic area is a short walk from the ferry dock, and the Cove Cafe offers barbecued oysters and an outdoor cantina.

Heart's Desire Beach. Heart’s Desire Beach is a West Marin family-friendly spot in Tomales Bay State Park. It has a grass area to spread out on and picnic tables as well to make spending a day there easier. Hearts Desire Beach is protected and safe for swimming when the weather cooperates. Note however that the weather there can change and become cool and windy so bring extra layers for the day.