Best Things to Do in the North Bay this August

Looking for the coolest things to do to soak up the final bits of summer? We’ve got you covered. We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in the North Bay including museums, cultural events, food tours, athletic events, hikes and more. Speaking of food, we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in the North Bay, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay

Featured photo: Muir Woods by Caleb Jones. 

Marin County

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Photo by Russell Johnson.

Shakespeare in the Park

Various Dates in August

Your options are plentiful for theater al fresco in the North Bay. Marin County boasts two Shakespeare companies, both of which are performing amphitheater comedies this August. First up is Marin Shakespeare Company, a lauded troupe putting on The Tempest from August 15 through September 14 in San Rafael. And, Mill Valley’s Curtain Theatre performs As You Like It from August 9 through September 1 in Mill Valley’s Old Mill Park. As a bonus, the Old Mill Park shows are free!

A seal pokes its head above the calm ocean water, with only its face visible as it looks towards the camera. The rippling blue sea surrounds the seal, blending smoothly with the horizon—an idyllic scene perfect for those exploring the Best Things to do in the North Bay this August.
Photo courtesy of The Sam Chase

Sundays

Get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy a boat tour of Sausalito, Marin Headlands and the Point Bonita Lighthouse to catch some of the Bay’s most popular marine wildlife. Sit back and enjoy the sights as an on-board naturalist guides you through the Bay’s diverse ecosystems. Return just in time to grab lunch at one of Sausalito’s many restaurants.

A diverse group of five people sit on a wooden bench in a forest, with tall trees in the background. One person is in a wheelchair, while others wear hats and casual clothing. Dappled sunlight filters through the trees, creating a peaceful, serene atmosphere—perfect for discussing things to do in San Francisco this August.
Photo by Kirke Wrench.

Aug 4

Pack what you need and come celebrate the anniversary of the American Great Outdoors Act with free access to national parks. Take advantage of this rare opportunity by venturing out to a farther national park like Yosemite or Lassen, or stop by some of the local parks that normally require fees. We recommend that you make a reservation to see the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument, which normally requires an entry fee. Besides Muir Woods, there are also free NPS sites like the Point Reyes National Seashore and the Golden Gate National Recreation just across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. 

Photo by Kelsey Joy, courtesy of Sonoma County Farm Trails.

August 9-10

Sonoma’s heritage apple is at the heart of this community-based fair with local music on multiple stages, food (caramel apples – yes!), arts and crafts booths and specialty and local products from Sonoma’s farmers. 

Photo courtesy of Osher Marin JCC

Aug 16

Come join in the fun at this family-friendly multi-cultural outdoor concert of vibrant Afro-Cuban and pan-African music with Salsa lessons, food vendors, snacks and a bar! Get your tickets so you don’t miss this magical night. (Kids 12 and under are free).

Event Venues

Looking to see what’s happening right now in the North Bay? Our comprehensive list of venues below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.

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