Living in Marin means your favorite beach can be just around the corner—sometimes literally.
As a longtime real estate agent, I’ve seen a lot of summers come and go. But there’s just something about beach season that brings out the best in our county. The salty breeze, the early morning surfers, the kids squealing over cold toes and melting ice cream, the dogs doing zoomies like their lives depend on it—it’s pure joy.
So, whether you're a longtime resident looking to rediscover a local gem or you're just passing through and wondering which sandy spot to try, let me take you on a little coastal tour of the best beaches in Marin County. Tried and true.
Stinson Beach: The Classic
Let’s start with the icon. Stinson Beach is the one I always recommend when someone says, “Where should I go for a real beach day?” It’s family-friendly, has lifeguards, soft white sand, and actual facilities (yes, bathrooms matter!). On hot summer days, it draws quite the crowd, so come early to grab a spot or, better yet, visit on a weekday if you can. It’s also a great place to unwind after a hike on the Dipsea or Matt Davis Trails. Pack a picnic, bring a kite, and stay for the sunset. You won’t regret it. Parkside Café is the perfect beachside café offering burgers to specialty seafood dishes and yummy French fries 😊!
Bolinas Beach: Marin’s Boho Hideaway
Now this one’s a little trickier to find. Intentionally so. The town of Bolinas has a famously... shall we say... private personality. Locals have been known to remove road signs to keep the beach hush-hush. But if you can find it, you’re in for a treat. The beach is mellow, great for beginner surfers and tidepool exploring. It feels like stepping into an old California postcard. If you like beaches with soul and maybe a little seaweed in your toes, Bolinas is your place.
Rodeo Beach: Where Surfers and Seagulls Meet History
Tucked into the Marin Headlands, Rodeo Beach is a favorite of mine for a few reasons. First, it's absolutely stunning—dramatic cliffs, pebbled sands, and crashing surf. Second, it’s steeped in history. You’re surrounded by old military bunkers and coastal trails with views that’ll knock your socks off. And third: it’s dog-friendly! It’s not the warmest spot, but it’s pure Marin: raw, rugged, and real.
Muir Beach: Cozy, Quiet, and Magical at Dusk
Muir Beach is like a secret cove that only locals know about. Nestled just west of Muir Woods, it’s a small beach but a charming one, surrounded by hills and trails. There’s a little bridge that leads you from the parking area through a freshwater lagoon and over to the sand, and every time I cross it, I feel like I’m stepping into a quiet world away from the bustle. It’s peaceful, perfect for a bonfire, and the sunsets here? They’ll make you believe in magic.
Heart’s Desire Beach: Tomales Bay’s Hidden Jewel
Here’s one that often surprises people. Tucked into Tomales Bay State Park, Heart’s Desire Beach is calm, shaded by trees, and has some of the warmest water around—thanks to its location on the bay rather than the ocean. I always tell families with little ones: This is your spot. It’s perfect for wading, picnicking, and floating around without worrying about big waves. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Heart’s Desire—like the beach version of your favorite childhood park.
Limantour Beach: Long Walks and Wild Vibes
If you’re craving space to roam, Limantour is your best bet. It’s long, wild, and windswept, set between the ocean and the estuary in Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s not your classic "lay-out-and-tan" beach, but it’s soul food. Come here to breathe deep, reconnect, and maybe spot some seals or even whales offshore. Although it may take you a bit of a hike through the sandy dunes to get to this beach, the sunsets from here will take your breath away, making the trip very well worth it.
One of the best parts of living and working in Marin is being just a short drive from all this coastal beauty. I always say: you don’t just buy a home here; you buy a lifestyle. Whether your idea of a beach day is chasing kids through the surf, walking solo with your thoughts, or watching the sun dip below the horizon with a loved one and a bottle of wine, Marin has a beach that fits.
So if you're already lucky enough to live here, get out there this summer and enjoy what’s practically your backyard. And if you're still dreaming about your move to the coast? Well, I know a seasoned real estate agent who’d love to help you make it happen. 😉
