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Sometimes the best picnics aren’t about finding the biggest park or the busiest lawn — they’re about uncovering those tucked-away places where the vibe feels just right. In Marin County, you’ll find plenty of them, each with its own way of turning an ordinary picnic into a memory worth keeping.
Start with McEvoy Ranch, where the hills are dotted with olive groves and vineyards that seem like they were borrowed from Tuscany. Reserve your table among the gardens, sip a glass of estate wine, and snack on something from their seasonal picnic menu. Just remember: this is the kind of place you’ll want to plan ahead for, so book your spot before the baskets are packed.
If a little history with your hummus sounds good, head to China Camp State Park. With more than 1,600 acres along San Pablo Bay, it’s easy to find your own patch of grass or table with a view. Buckeye Point and Bullhead Flat each have tables, grills, and breezes that make food taste even better. After lunch, explore China Camp Village and peek into the museum to catch stories from the days when Chinese immigrants built a shrimp-fishing community here.
For something straight out of a storybook, the Marin Art and Garden Center is hard to top. Bright flowers, shady paths, and cozy picnic nooks make it feel like the garden you always wanted in your backyard. The Picnic Grove is the local favorite, perfect for unrolling a sandwich and watching the day drift by. Just leave the pets and bikes at home — it’s all about slowing down here.
And then there’s Heidrun Meadery, where bees are the secret ingredient to a sparkling good time. Their Champagne-style meads make for a bubbly twist on your usual picnic drink. Order a cheese box, grab a bottle, and toast to hilltop views. Families, dogs, and relaxed afternoons are all welcome here.
From olive groves to bay views, flower gardens to honey mead, Marin County makes it easy to picnic like a local. For the best places to stay in Marin, visit the Marin CVB at visitmarin.org/hotels, and download our new visitor app.
