With San Francisco socked-in with friendly fog and the inland areas baking in heat, Marin County is an easy coastal escape with refreshing beaches.
Tennessee Cove
This small beach in Marin's unspoiled coastal headlands has an abundance of wildlife. It is reached via an easygoing one-and-a-half mile hike through Mill Valley's Tennessee Valley, less than a 30 minute drive from SF.
Stinson Beach
Less than an hour from SF, the sleepy beach town of Stinson invites you to stroll its wide sandy crescent. Play in the waves, enjoy ocean breezes, and take in distant views of the city to the south and Bolinas to the northwest. It's a perfect pit stop for afternoon picnics and a sunset toast. Even on crowded days, there's usually ample room to lay out your picnic blanket. Stinson Beach is one of the more popular beaches for swimming, so make sure to get your feet wet before indulging in all those decadent treats.
Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach is one of Marin's many pet-friendly beaches. Located in the northern part of Marin County, it's one of the most popular among dog owners. Dogs are allowed off-leash between the tide line and the water. Of course, leashes are required from the parking lot to the high tide for safety purposes. Remember that the cost of parking a vehicle is now $10.
Limantour Beach
This peaceful strip of sand between Drakes Bay and an estuary in the Point Reyes National Seashore is a bountiful wildlife area. From the beach, you'll be able to spot several birds in the distance, and there are also harbor seals that call Limantour Beach home. A bit less common but just as impressive are the gray whales who nurse their young calves. Bring your camera so you can zoom in on the action.
Muir Beach
If you are traveling with the kiddies, they'll love the soft sand and warm lagoon at Muir Beach. A good starting (or ending) point is the Muir Beach Overlook, as the views are stunning both by day and at night. Then, head to the beach for an afternoon of sandcastle building, wading in the water, and plenty of people-watching. Many families stock up on snacks at the Pelican Inn so they can set up a picnic later in the day.
Heart's Desire Beach
Situated on the calm Tomales Bay side of the Point Reyes peninsula in Tomales Bay State Park, Heart's Desire is a quiet stretch of white sand with a sheltered shoreline. It's a great place to hang out, have a picnic, and take in the beauty of West Marin.