Things to do & places to visit in Marin County, California, United States

Some say it’s different, but residents of Marin County like their home that way. We’re betting you will too! Nestled between San Francisco and the Napa Valley, Marin County includes the cities of Tiburon, San Anselmo, San Rafael and Corte Madera. Activities in Marin County include the highly anticipated Concours d’Elegance, a festival of pre-1978 vehicles and British Sports Cars. Held at the Marin County Fairgrounds in May, the event features a wine-tasting, fine food and “The Drive,” a parade of classic cars winding their way through the scenic back roads of Marin and neighboring Sonoma Counties ending with a lunch reception in San Rafael. In July, be sure to head to the Marin County Fair and in August hit the San Rafael Food and Wine Festival. Treat yourself to some of the world-renowned local wine and watch the sun go down over the hills. Of course, there’s no shortage of natural beauty in Marin County. Beach lovers will enjoy Stinson Beach or Point Reyes National Seashore where wildlife abounds. Here you just might spot some Elephant Seals or Tule Elk among the rugged terrain or, from Point Reyes Lighthouse, catch a glimpse of a pod of whales. Go butterfly or bird watching and enjoy the many natural wonders of California’s Northern Coast. For some, no vacation would be complete without a round of golf. If you’re a golf aficionado, Marin County will not disappoint you. The area boasts several public and private courses in a variety of settings, including San Geronimo Golf Course. Situated on 150 acres of stunning landscape, this is a challenging course designed to test your game! Or, try the StoneTree Golf Club, a daily fee, 18-hole championship course. If hiking is more your style, check out Angel Island State Park. Accessible only by ferry, Angel Island offers spectacular views of most of the Bay Area, including San Francisco. Fishing more your style? Try McNear’s Beach Pier in San Rafael.

Marin County county in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 19:01.

Top things to do (23)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Marin Headlands (1.891 reviews)
- Best Vantage point to View the Golden Gate Bridge
State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Located at the Point Bonita Lighthouse, these headlands offer a suspension bridge and hiking trail. See more..
5.0 Mount Tamalpais State Park (447 reviews)
- Beautiful Day trip in January
State Parks • Mountains • National Parks

Beautiful state park north of San Francisco. See more..
5.0 Point Reyes Hiking Trails (195 reviews)
- Very peaceful...just us and the seals!
Friday: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Hiking Trails

Definitely worth the drive up from the East Bay on a weekday. We hiked the Chimney Rock trail, including the little spur out to the Elephant Seal Overlook. Very nice hike...maybe a couple of miles total. Mostly flat. We had great views of the beach to the south along the trail (be careful, it's precarious), and great views of the elephant seals (some were even fighting and making strange sounds)...very cool. Nice exhibits too about the lifeboat station. Only a couple of other people there. Definitely recommend! See more..
5.0 Tule Elk Preserve (163 reviews)
- Beautiful area of Point Reyes
Nature & Wildlife Areas

We drove out to Tomales Bay point after going to the lighthouse and the two points down that way. We got lucky and saw two small herds of elk: all females, a group of 10 and group of 8. We also saw several small herds of deer. The scenery is really nice but we didn’t have time to do this hike because we had been walking and exploring all day by the time we got to this area. There are several placards explaining the area that were interesting. Would definitely recommend this hike if we had more time from what I saw and read, See more..
5.0 Tennessee Valley Trailhead (131 reviews)
- Scenic trails well worth a visit.
Hiking Trails

A friend recommended this place, and my spouse and I were grateful that he did. We were pleasantly surprised to find that it's not just one trail; it's a number of different trails. We took what I'm guessing was the main trail, which led us down to the beach. Very scenic and not very difficult. We were there on a weekday in early June and had no trouble parking. Our only regret is that we didn't have more time to spend here. See more..
5.0 Tomales Point Trail (106 reviews)
- Lots of wildlife on peaceful hike
Friday: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Hiking Trails

Peaceful quiet walk out to the point. Lots of elk, wildlife and whales seen off the high bluffs. The area is at an opposite end of the Point Reyes where the lighthouse point is located so to go to all the “ends” of the trails in the park you’ll need a couple days since this alone is a 1/2 day and that doesn’t count getting there and back to where you are staying. At the start there some information placards and a ranch building from early 1800s. See more..
5.0 Dipsea Trail (69 reviews)
- Exciting trail!
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

I did this trail with a friend- we started down Dipsea, then continued on to Stinson Beach, and then came back to the parking lot on the steep ravine trail. It was 7+ miles total and I can tell you that the way down was pretty much all down hill and the way back was alllllll uphill, but it was a gorgeous trail. Even with a ton of fog! I loved it and would do it again. See more..
4.5 Muir Woods National Monument (6.974 reviews)
- Memorable trip to San Francisco all because Ms. Pep of Alegro Private Tours
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests

Muir Woods has a rich and varied history, from its use by the Coast Miwok people, to its early days of tourism and the Mount Tamalpais Mill Valley Scenic Railway, to an era of conservation, to modern preservation. In each era, the forest has been affected by the actions of humans, for better or for worse. Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this coastal redwood preserve features majestic redwoods and scenic hiking trails that draw more than 1.5 million visitors each year. See more..
4.5 Vista Point (778 reviews)
- Great Panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco
Lookouts

This was one of the drop off locations on the Big Bus Hop on Hop off bus tour. The North Vista Point was absolutely a great place to view the beautiful Art Deco Bridge and the San Francisco skyline as well as the Bay where you can see Alcatraz and Yerba Buena Island/Treasure Island. There are WCs at this location which is very handy. From the Vista Point, there a hiking trails to see various former military batteries that guarded the Golden Gate during more perilous times. See more..
4.5 Point Reyes Lighthouse (767 reviews)
- If you're a fan of the movie The Fog...
Friday: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Lighthouses

Drenched in fog most of the year, this lighthouse is one of the foggiest in the country, and is a great whale-watching spot in the fall and spring. See more..
4.5 Golden Gate National Recreation Area (678 reviews)
- An amazing National Park to explore
State Parks • National Parks • Parks

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the nation's largest national park in an urban area, encompasses nearly 81,000 acres. Spanning Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties, Golden Gate National Recreation Area also includes areas such as Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument, Fort Point National Historic Site, Presidio of San Francisco, and the Marin Headlands. See more..
4.5 Sausalito Boardwalk (494 reviews)
- A walk to remember
Piers & Boardwalks

A walk to remember alongside the ocean. It is a must place to visit to enjoy some great food, amazing natural beauty and great sight seeing. One can click some great pics while walking side by side the ocean and can even find some smallest of the crabs in this place. On one side you can walk beside the ocean and on the other side, you find some great eating outlets to spend a great evening time. one can also witness the San Francisco skyline from here as well. See more..
4.5 The Marine Mammal Center (339 reviews)
- highlight of the trip
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Educational sites

The Marine Mammal Center advances global ocean conservation through rescue and rehabilitation, scientific research, and education. Visit our Sausalito hospital, the world’s largest marine mammal hospital, to see animal care experts providing life-saving care to patients so they can be released back to the wild. Watch as our volunteers prepare meals in the Fish Kitchen, peek into our laboratory to learn more about our scientific research, and explore interactive exhibits that give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to rescue hundreds of marine mammals every year. Plus, you’ll discover how you can take action to protect marine mammals and the ocean. Book your free ticket now at MarineMammalCenter.org See more..
4.5 Sausalito Ice House Visitors Center (308 reviews)
- Take the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito
Visitor Centers

The ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito is wonderful! The trip across the bay is beautiful. Sausalito is a great little community with a lot of charm. Lot's of little shops, places to eat and a great view of the bay. Enjoy this great place for a day or half day. See more..
4.5 Angel Island - Tiburon Ferry (246 reviews)
- Great day trip and historical island!!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Ferries

We are a family owned and operated ferry service for 5 generations. We provide ferry service from Tiburon to Angel Island State Park, Sunset Cruises, Whale Watching Cruises, Special Event Cruises and Private Charters. See more..
4.5 Point Bonita Lighthouse (245 reviews)
- Fantastic Views
Lighthouses

Point Bonita today is part of the largest urban national park in the United States, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. A secret jewel of the Bay Area, Point Bonita is still an active lighthouse. The U.S. Coast Guard maintains the lighthouse and the National Park Service provides access to visitors. Point Bonita Lighthouse is reached by a half mile trail that is very steep in parts. Discover Point Bonita's wild landscape, geology and fascinating history. The tunnel halfway to the lighthouse is open only during visiting hours: Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. See more..
4.5 Muir Beach (244 reviews)
- Nice!
Beaches

Located in Marin County, this is the perfect beach for a picnic with spectacular ocean views. See more..
4.5 Muir Beach Overlook (221 reviews)
- Great coastal views
Lookouts

We stopped here after seeing the Muir Woods and drove to the beach. Small parking lot to park in and then walk out to a great overlook on a short trial out to the point to see the coastal views. There are also some bunkers where the military guarded the entrance to SF Bay during the war ; these “batteries “ are located all over the coastal areas and around the Marin Headlands. Also a nice bathroom that was open and picnic benches. See more..
4.5 Bay Area Discovery Museum (215 reviews)
- A fun time for all kids
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Children's Museums

The Bay Area Discovery Museum is a space for imaginations to run wild! Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge on 7.5 acres of National Park land in Sausalito, Bay Area Discovery Museum features exhibition spaces and daily programs for children 6 months of age to 8 years. See more..
4.5 Battery Spencer (214 reviews)
- Sunset and city views all from one location
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Military Bases & Facilities

If you're considering a visit to San Francisco, look no further for the perfect location to see the city as a backdrop to the Golden Gate Bridge. Battery Spencer is a short hike of about 750 feet from the parking area; and parking is super tight - especially on nice days. There is a prison-style bathroom but at least there is one. Photos can be a challenge with all of the tourists so consider hiring a professional. I love this location for post-wedding, engagement, and family photos. See more..
4.5 Stinson Beach (214 reviews)
- Just the Drive Is Worth It
Spent 1-2 hours Beaches • Parks

We stopped at Stinson beach for about an hour after visiting Muir Woods. The drive from the Muir Beach Overlook along the cost to Stinson beach is breathtaking. The last week in September was not swimming weather but it was still beautiful to walk the beach and wade in the water. A cute little down to stop in for a drink before heading on. See more..
4.5 Marin County Farmers' Market--San Rafael (213 reviews)
- Best Farmer’s Market
Farmers Markets

This is, by far, the best Farmer’s Market in the North Bay. Just a pleasant Sunday, with marginal parking nearby, though plenty, if you can walk 2-3 blocks. Wonderful vendors, with moderate pricing on vegetables. Quite a few bakers, a nice spattering of artisans, kombucha, hot foods, olives - it only gets better as the warm season progresses. See more..
4.5 China Camp State Park (210 reviews)
- Nice hiking and biking trails
State Parks

Located on the grounds of an old Chinese fishing settlement, this park includes over 1,500 acres of beaches, hiking trails and picnic grounds. See more..
4.5 Golden Gate View Point (167 reviews)
- See for yourself...
Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

I didn’t think I would be as impressed by the Golden Gate Bridge but it truly is a spectacular sight of engineering. The view point is excellent views across the city and there is a great gift shop. It’s always very busy, and very busy with cars... so be prepared. See more..
4.5 San Francisco Bay Model (165 reviews)
- Don't Miss the Art!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums • Architectural Buildings

The world's largest working model of San Francisco Bay. See more..
4.5 Rodeo Beach (136 reviews)
- One of my favorite beaches
Beaches

visit this beach but read up on the geology first. The geologic history of this whole area is absolutely amazing. On this beach you'll find fine grains of sand on one end and pebbles on the other end. The size of the grains increases exponentially with every step. The view from this beach is beautiful. This is not a swimming beach, and do not let kids get in the water. It is dangerous. There's a great opportunity to hike from this beach south over the hill to a small quiet secluded beach. See more..
4.5 Marin County Civic Center (120 reviews)
- Worth touring for Wright or architecture fans.
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Civic Centres

A masterpiece of architecture. The civic center is gorgeous to just wander around (quietly, it’s an active government building with courtrooms and county offices). If you’re visiting then the best thing is to take a guided tour. Tours are running as of 2022 and well worth scheduling to learn about this amazingly built and preserved landmark. See more..
4.5 Tomales Bay State Park (100 reviews)
- Some fascinating sunset views in Inverness area
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Encompasses beaches, a majestic forest, leisure hikes and wild animals. See more..
4.5 Old Mill Park (84 reviews)
- Redwood Sanctuary
Historic Sites • Parks

Restored, historic sawmill turned park, site of annual Mill Valley Arts Fest. See more..
4.5 Blackie's Pasture (82 reviews)
- Easy parking, long flat expansive walk way w city and ocean views
Monuments & Statues

Wonderful place to park and walk. You can walk all the way to town for lunch and walk back. Flat,easy, dog friendly , city and water views . Can be warm and nice or overcast and fog..but always beautiful . Dress in layers , few bikers . Easy for older people or kids. Bathrooms close to parking lot. You can do a short stroll w a non ambulatory person, even benches to sit abs take in view Tiburon tavern, rustic bakery, woodlands gourmet grocery, Sam’s or petite left bank in town are worthy stops for yummy vittles. See more..