Living in Marin County is definitely a quieter pace than bustling San Francisco, but there are a few gems that make Marin stand out on its own as a memorable place to visit. Breathtaking views, endless hiking, and unique natural wonders make Marin County worth seeing, especially if you are a nature lover.
Interestingly enough, even locals have not heard of a few of my favorite things to do in Marin County. Here is CP’s guide to Marin County and all that I consider “uniquely Marin”:
POINT BONITA LIGHTHOUSE
I had no idea this Sausalito gem even existed until only a few years ago. I can’t help but think of my sister Tina who absolutely loves lighthouses. I am so excited to take her and my nephews to Point Bonita the next time she is in town. Point Bonita is not your typical lighthouse. It literally sits on a cliff with an amazing bridge walkway expanding over the ocean below. The picture speaks for itself and the views are incredible!
ALAMERE FALLS
Ever see a tidefall? Well, I didn’t until I went to Alamere Falls on the coast in Marin County. It is an incredible sight to see; a roaring waterfall spilling into the ocean below. I thought I had to fly to Hawaii to see something this naturally magnificent. Little did I know it was in my very own backyard! I loved Alamere Falls so much I wrote about it further here.
CAVALLO POINT
What used to be army barracks is now a chic hotel, restaurant, and bar. You can see northern views of the Golden Gate bridge which are spectacular. This is the perfect spot to sit outside for a picturesque vista while having a sunset cocktail. In the wintertime, I love to sit by the fire in Murray Circle for some warmed pistachios and a mean Manhattan.
Cavallo Point also has the best cooking classes! Who knew? The teachers are great and in class, you meet so many people with the same interest as you – cooking! I had the best experience and we were all able to eat our creation together afterward!
Cavallo Point is a beauty when it comes to architecture and always fun to visit whether you want to soak in the view or learn a few cooking skills.
BIOLUMINESCENCE – NIGHT KAYAKING
Water that glows? Kayaking under the light of the moon? Seeing Bioluminescence while kayaking is probably one of the most awesome experiences you can have in Marin County. Take a guided tour launching off Tomales Bay at dusk and get ready to nerd-out on science. With the glide of your oar or a dip of your hand, organisms emit a blueish hue that glows. It’s spectacular and magical. It made me feel like I was casting spells into the water with shimmering sparkles.
TERRAPIN CROSSROADS
Head on over to Phil Lesh’s (Grateful Dead) hangout to listen to live music and grab a tasty bite. Sitting on the canals in San Rafael, it’s a great place to chill out along the water. Awesome bands frequent this joint nonstop and there is always a band in the bar playing for free. The music here is always impressive and if you are into live music like me, Terrapin Crossroads is an absolute Marin must.
PHOENIX LAKE
Nestled in the ultra-rich neighborhood of Ross, Phoenix Lake is one of the most beautiful hikes Marin has to offer. A stunning gem with the perfect trail surrounding it. Catch a glimpse of turtles sunbathing on rocks, take in the beauty with a hike in the woods or meander on an offshoot (leading to other hikes) that will lead to even more lakes nearby! The drive into Phoenix Lake alone is gorgeous alone, with glimpses of posh estates dreams are made of.
MUIR WOODS
Rightfully a national monument, this is an overall California treasure and lucky for me it’s right in Marin County. Redwoods higher than the eye can see and older than you can imagine, these proud trees are majestic and incredibly powerful. Check out the Bohemian trail and Cathedral Grove to walk through and around these natural wonders. If you are looking to be awestruck by nature, Muir Woods should be on your all-time bucket list.
GERMAN TOURIST CLUB
Dust off your lederhosen and lace up your hiking boots to hit up this taste of Germany in the heart of Marin County. Off the beaten path and hidden in the hills of Mill Valley, be sure to check out this unique chalet stop. Serving beer and snacks, also boasting an incredible view from long wooden tables with an assortment of old board games. It’s a fun stop after a hike and a great destination to spend a few hours in the middle of the woods. Only open a few days a year, be sure to check out the Nature Friends Tourist Club website, which posts it’s calendar online. I recommend going especially when there is a “fest” scheduled so you can enjoy live polka music, people watch what seems like the lederhosen fashion show (can anyone say knitted calf warmers?) and partake in lively dancing.
The German Tourist Club is definitely an activity only locals are privy to and one of the most memorable things to do while in Marin County.
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