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Best things to do in Marin County

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Where in the world: USA  /  California  /  Marin County

Top 15 things to do in Marin County

1. Muir Woods National Monument, Mill Valley

Just a short drive north of San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument protects a pristine area of about 97 hectares (240 acres) of old-growth redwood forest. Walk among the giant trees, which are some of the tallest living things on the planet. You can choose from several trails, ranging in length and difficulty. For an easy hike through a grove of trees nearly a millennium old, take the short main trail loop. If you feel a little more adventurous, put on pair of good hiking shoes and take the 3 km (2 mi) trail to the top of "Cardiac Hill," which offers unobstructed views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean.
Suggested duration: 3 hours
Tours from $78 › Learn more about Muir Woods National Monument

2. Marin Headlands

The hilly Marin Headlands offer beaches, hiking trails, historical sites, and superb views of the Bay Area. Begin your trip at the visitor center to learn more about the peninsula's history and nature, and pick up hiking maps. Move on to some of the beaches; dog-friendly Rodeo Beach is an ideal choice if you have canine companion in tow. A number of historical military settlements and fortifications are located here, including the Nike Missile Site SF-88-L, which is open to provide insight into Cold War military strategy. Bring snacks and water with you, as there are no food outlets. Battery Wallace is an especially scenic picnic spot with tables and grills.
Suggested duration: 2 hours
Tours from $36 › Learn more about Marin Headlands

3. Golden Gate National Recreation Area

With trails for hiking, bike riding, and horseback riding and beaches for swimming and other water sports, Golden Gate National Recreation Area serves up plenty of outdoor activities. The park covers 32,376 hectares (80,002 acres), featuring diverse landscapes and more than 1,200 plant and animal species. Wander through stands of giant redwoods, check out old military fortifications, and visit historical sites.
Suggested duration: 8 hours
Tours from $300 › Learn more about Golden Gate National Recreation Area

4. Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito)

FROM $82
Take time out from San Francisco on a half-day trip to Muir Woods National Park and Sausalito. This enthralling half-day trip takes you across the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Area's most popular National Park Monument to experience the magnificent views of the Giant redwoods during a 90' stop (entrance fee included). Next, visit the beautiful coastal town of Sausalito, a gorgeous Mediterranean-style village with quaint shops and waterfront restaurants. If a one-hour stop in Sausalito isn't enough for you, you can extend your stay by upgrading your tour to include the Sausalito ferry back to San Francisco. If you decide to come back by bus and are looking for possibilities to complete your other half-day, we offer you an upgraded option to save money, which includes a 4h Bike rental package from our partner Unlimited Biking (757 Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94109). Fall in love with all San Francisco has to offer as you pedal around and explore the area at your own pace.
Suggested duration: 5h
Tours from $82 › More about this tour at viator.com ›
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5. Point Reyes Lighthouse, Point Reyes National Seashore

Offering miles of unspoiled coastline, Point Reyes Lighthouse preserves 28,750 hectares (71,000 acres) of coastal beaches, estuaries, headlands, and wildlife. Start at the visitor center for up-to-date information on the park and the activities available. For wildlife sightings, try the northern part of the peninsula, which is home to a reserve for tule elk and shorebirds. The beaches are excellent viewing spots for whales--especially for the annual migration of gray whales. The seashore provides ample opportunity for bird watching. The park offers 240 km (150 mi) of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can get a feel for the ancient people who lived in the area by touring the Coast Miwok Village at Kule Loklo or see what's left of a dairy ranch from the 1850s. The Point Reyes Lifeboat Station is designated a National Historic Landmark.
Suggested duration: 1h 30 min
Tours from $6 › Learn more about Point Reyes Lighthouse

6. Vista Point, Sausalito

Suggested duration: 2 hours
Tours from $32 › Learn more about Vista Point

7. Point Reyes Safaris, Point Reyes Station

Suggested duration: 4 hours
Learn more about Point Reyes Safaris

8. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

FROM $179
Be doubly delighted in this award-winning combo tour by a morning stroll through an ancient redwood forest and an afternoon of exclusive winery experiences in California’s Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Relax and enjoy spirited education and demonstrations by winemakers It’s the only Woods & Wine tour to include all wine tasting fees. Guaranteed departures 365 days a year, all age groups welcome. The tour offers the option of taking your Wine Country and Redwoods Tour experience to the next level by indulging in an exclusive three-course food experience on historic Sonoma plaza.
Suggested duration: 10h
Tours from $179 › More about this tour at viator.com ›

11. Mount Tamalpais State Park, Mill Valley

Suggested duration: 2 hours
Learn more about Mount Tamalpais State Park

12. Wine Country Small-Group Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

Likely to sell out FROM $169
Beautiful Sonoma Valley is your destination on this laid-back, fun-filled, all-day tour. You will learn much about the region from your friendly and knowledgeable guide and will have the opportunity to sample many of the delicious wines that have made Northern California a world-renowned wine producing region. You will travel with a small group (limited to 12 people) to three of Sonoma’s finest boutique wineries where you will spend approximately one hour at each winery. This journey also includes a stop in scenic Sausalito, a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge, and a lunch stop in the historic town of Sonoma where you can select from one of the many fantastic restaurants on the square. If you’re feeling adventurous you can even take a walk into the past at Mission San Francisco Solano. Tasting fees at all wineries are included!
Suggested duration: 9h 30min
Tours from $169 › More about this tour at viator.com ›

13. Stinson Beach, Stinson Beach

Suggested duration: 1h 30 min
Learn more about Stinson Beach

15. Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

FROM $38
One hour scenic voyage - Ferry between Pier 43.5 and Fisherman’s Wharf while transiting along San Francisco’s breathtaking waterfront, passing under the Golden Gate and around Alcatraz! Learn the history of San Francisco Bay in an open-air museum setting and observe local marine life such as sea lions, pelicans, whales and more. Don't worry about the unpredictable San Francisco weather! This is an open ticket which is valid for use on any day up until the end of the year.
Suggested duration: 1h
Tours from $38 › More about this tour at viator.com ›