Marin Between the Coast, Redwoods, and History

Marin County’s landscapes include oak-bay woodlands, savannas, grasslands, and salt marshes. More than 1,500 plant and animal species can be discovered at Point Reyes National Seashore. Whales can be seen off the coast almost year-round; gray whales are most often spotted during their winter and spring migrations.

Coast, Forest, and Trails

The historic Point Reyes Lighthouse was built in 1870 and served as a navigational aid for mariners for 105 years. At the Lighthouse Visitor Center, you can see exhibits about the lighthouse and whales, as well as the Fresnel lens from the San Francisco Lightship. The walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse follows a mostly uphill path for 0.45 miles. From there, 313 steps lead down; the stairs may be closed in high winds. Be sure to check access before your visit.

Muir Woods National Monument is known for its original old-growth coast redwoods, which are connected to Redwood Creek. Miles of trails wind through the forest. Boardwalks and benches offer practical access aids for visitors with a range of mobility needs. Rangers lead several programs each day; specific programs may change. A reservation is required to visit Muir Woods National Monument, whether you arrive by private vehicle or take a shuttle.

The area also offers shorter hikes with clearly defined destinations. The Millerton Point Trail in Tomales Bay State Park is a 1.18-mile, accessible loop. It crosses coastal bluffs and offers views of Tomales Bay, Point Reyes, and the surrounding coastal hills. The Tennessee Valley Trail is mostly flat and leads 1.7 miles to Tennessee Beach. Deer and coyotes live in the valley, and bobcats are occasionally seen. The different trail lengths and landscapes give each outing its own focus.

Culture and Regional History

China Camp Village preserves the history of a Chinese shrimp-fishing settlement dating back to the 1860s. The village includes a museum and historic buildings. China Camp State Park lies on the shores of San Pablo Bay and encompasses oak woodlands and more than 100 acres of protected tidal salt marshes. Activities in the park include wildlife watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating in small watercraft, and windsurfing.

At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, the Cross Marin Trail follows the historic route of the North Pacific Coast Railroad. The park also offers camping and picnic areas among the redwoods.

Water, Views, and Island Visits

Tomales Bay State Park has four beaches protected from the surf. The park offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, swimming, shellfish gathering, and boating; local conditions can affect water activities. Rodeo Beach is distinguished by its unique geology and colorful sand. Fort Baker offers easy walks along the water and cliffs, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Kayaks and sailboats can be launched from the boat ramp at Horseshoe Cove.

Angel Island State Park is accessible by public ferry from San Francisco and Tiburon. As schedules may change, it’s a good idea to check ferry service before your visit. The island has hiking and biking trails and camping facilities, and you can visit Fort McDowell and the Immigration Station. Angel Island Immigration Station is a National Historic Landmark with restored detention barracks, tours, and a museum. An island visit therefore combines nature trails with a site of immigration history.

Mount Tamalpais offers another perspective on the region: from the upper mountain, visibility permitting, you can see the Farallon Islands, San Francisco Bay, the East Bay, and Mount Diablo. The Mountain Theater in Mount Tamalpais State Park hosts outdoor theater and astronomy programs; individual programs may vary.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: San Rafael, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Novato, Fairfax, Bolinas, Tomales, Point Reyes Station, San Geronimo, Sausalito, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Tiburon, Dillon Beach, Stinson Beach, Muir Beach.

For the higher-level travel overview: California.