As spring fever spreads sunshine, wildflowers, and chances for outdoor activities, family road trippers will want to visit this Northern California getaway destination, where some of the country’s most iconic mountain coastlines serve as a backdrop for world-class exploration.
Hike Muir Woods
Spring has arrived in one of Marin’s most majestic nature spots: Muir Woods. Described by conservationist John Muir as “the best tree-lovers monument that could be possibly found,” this collection of old-growth coast redwood trees, attracts nearly a million domestic and international tourists each year.
Hiking the monument’s six miles of trails and paths brings you deep into the ancient groves, many older than 600 years. It’s a fleeting opportunity (the crowds come quickly) but the further you hike into the woods, the more powerful and majestic the trees become.
Beach and water sports fans should get set to get wet in Marin County’s oceans and bays. Marin County features water experiences with some of the most majestic Pacific Ocean and California mountain views, with attractions like Point Reyes National Seashore, China Camp State Park and Corte Madera Creek. Here are a few of the best water events this spring in Marin County, plus places you can paddle every weekend.
Kayaking
A Marin County kayak tour is a phone call (or web click) away at Blue Waters Kayaking, the oldest and only full-service kayaking outfitter in Point Reyes. Anyone from beginner to expert-level kayakers can enjoy guided tours through the famed waterways of Point Reyes National Seashore and Tomales Bay.
Blue Waters Kayaking will provide memorable experiences in the California mountains with custom design tours, retreats and getaway opportunities that include hiking, birding and even oysters.
Biking
Marin County is the birthplace of mountain biking, and as such, cycling is a big part of Marin culture; there’s even a museum dedicated to the sport, located in Fairfax. When it comes to West Marin—areas like Stinson Beach, Bolinas and Point Reyes Station—there’s a trail for every skill set. From scenic stops along Stinson Beach to long cycles to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, here are a couple of the best scenic trails in Marin.
Stinson Beach Loop
Ready to hit the beach? First you need to get there, and the Stinson Beach Loop is a scenic, two-hour bike ride that covers 24.1 miles at 3,150 feet. There are definitely a couple hills, but also two very smooth descents. The trail starts out among the trees before opening up to views of Bolinas Lagoon and the beach. Riders can choose to continue along Highway 1 toward South Muir for a beach break or cycle onward to Mill Valley.
The Golden Gateway From San Francisco to Marin
For those heading to Marin after a few days in San Francisco, the Golden Gateway bike trail (named after the Golden Gate Bridge) is the perfect way to witness the transition from city streets to country roads. Most bikers start their ride at the Ferry Building, and from there it’s a 10.67-mile outing. While this might sound like no easy feat, the ride is smooth, ideal for all levels, as well as a pretty scenic route.
The Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau is committed to providing travelers with accurate and timely resource information about traveling to our region safely. The health and safety of our Marin visitors are our top, which is why we compiled a Travel Alert section of current updated information to our County.
Now is the time to come back to Marin and take advantage of our generous hotel package program.