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If you seek the perfect itinerary for your next Marin County summer adventure, we have it outlined here! Embrace the summer in Marin vibes by visiting one of these two hand-picked picturesque beaches. Marin has a coastline perfect for enjoying water sports, family outings, pet-friendly adventures, and quiet romantic strolls. Make sure to check our Beach Travel Tips before heading out.
Find Your Heart’s Desire
Tucked away on the eastern side of Point Reyes National Seashore, this hidden sandy cove at Heart’s Desire offers a serene setting with calm waters of Tomales Bay and scenic views of Marin County hills.
What to Do
Start by taking the Tomales Point Trail to the Elk Refuge, where you may see coyotes, Tule Elk, and even the occasional mountain lion. For a thrilling kayaking experience, we recommend booking a trip with Blue Waters Kayaking. For a truly enchanting experience, consider joining one of their evening Bioluminescence Tours.
Where to Stay
Stay at Bear Valley Cottage! This home away from home features a convenient self-catering unit with a small kitchenette stocked with essentials to kickstart your stay.
Where to Eat
Savor the flavors of the coast at The Marshall Store, where you can feast on freshly harvested oysters, homemade clam chowder, and other classic dishes crafted from seasonal, local ingredients – all while soaking in picturesque views of Tomales Bay.
Avoid the Crowds at Dillon Beach
Dillon Beach is nestled along Marin County’s coast and offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views of the Pacific. It’s seldom crowded and is perfect for a stroll or adventurous activities like surfing and kite flying.
What to Do
Situated at the entry point to West Marin and the Sonoma and Napa Valley wine regions, the Marin French Cheese Company is a short drive from Dillon Beach. Enjoy some of their award-winning cheeses on their covered picnic tables, where you can also take in cold beverages, hot chocolate, coffee, soup, and sandwiches.
Where to Stay
To truly enjoy this option, we recommend staying at the Tomales Hotel on Route One. This hotel has all the grandeur of an 1800s hotel with a “rural goes modern” refresh.
Where to Eat
Daytime: Walk across the street from your hotel to partake in delicious, locally sourced food at Route One Bakery & Kitchen in Tomales. From fresh bread and baked goods to beer, wine, and cider made by the best of Marin, you’ll surely find something you like on their menu.
Improve your beach getaway by adding a summer outdoor concert to your itinerary and extending your stay. Rancho Nicasio and HopMonk Tavern host live outdoor summer music events, while various parks, farmers’ markets, and shopping malls feature outdoor day concerts during the summer season.
Use this guide to plan your perfect summer itinerary and explore what Marin County offers. For the best places to stay in Marin, visit the Marin CVB at visitmarin.org/hotels.
