How to Enjoy a Day Trip to Marin County, California

It's amazing that just a bridge away from the bustling city of San Francisco lays the tranquility of Marin County, California. Lush hills, forests and beaches beckon visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The stunning views of San Francisco are not to be missed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Stop at the Marin Headlands just after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. This former military reservation is now a national park. Tour Point Bonita Lighthouse or pull over at one or the various look-out points.
2. Hike in Muir Woods. This 560-acre park has numerous trails leading visitors through a redwood forest. Spend one hour on the easy main 1-mile loop or spend several hours exploring scenic footpaths.
3. Climb Mount Tamalpais for a birds-eye view of San Francisco and the bay. Hiking and biking trails take the adventurous up 2,571 feet above sea level.
4. Visit one of the beaches along the Pacific coastline. Stinson Beach with white sand is a popular picnic spot, but other beaches offer rugged cliffs, tide pools or remote beauty.
5. Spot migrating California gray whales from the Pt. Reyes Peninsula between December and May. Elephant seals, harbor seals and sea lions can also be found during the winter months.
6. Visit the quaint town of Sausalito known for art galleries and bay-side shopping and dining. Sausalito is also accessible by a ferry departing from Fisherman's Wharf.

Tips & Warnings

• Muir Woods is cool year-round with temperatures ranging from 40 to 70 degrees F.