Marin County Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A sunset over a coastal landscape with rocky outcrops and calm waters.
A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a cliff, a bridge, and calm sea.
A wooden pathway winding through a dense forest with tall trees and lush greenery.
A coastal lighthouse with a red roof, a white building, and a winding pathway along the cliff edge.
A coastal lighthouse with a stone walkway leading to it, surrounded by rocky cliffs and the sea.

With rolling hills and all kinds of beaches, you won’t believe that Marin County is just across the road (or bridge) from big-city life in San Francisco.

Outdoorsy types and culture vultures alike will find their mojo in Marin County. Cultural events and festivals are all the rage, from fancy cars to fine wines to symphony orchestras. Foodies will feel right at home with all the farmland around. And for those who love the great outdoors? Try to spot some sea life, or if you’d rather, throw out a line and reel some in for dinner.

Popular cities in Marin County

A waterfront pier with a restaurant and a building with a tower.
Sausalito
Known for Dining, Scenery and Sea
This is a wonderful waterfront community with a decidedly Mediterranean flavour, which is easily accessible via a short ferry ride across the San Francisco Bay.

Reasons to visit

  • Marin Headlands
  • Bay Area Discovery Museum
  • Point Bonita Lighthouse
A coastal town with dense greenery, a clear blue sea, and a hilly backdrop.
Mill Valley
Known for Dining, Biking and Forests
Experience the forests, hiking and art in Mill Valley!

Reasons to visit

  • Muir Woods National Monument
  • Golden Gate National Recreation Area
  • Old Mill Park
The Golden Gate Bridge at dusk with city lights in the background.
San Rafael
Known for Family-friendly, Shopping and Entertainment
Trip time! Discover the sunsets, festivals and local cuisine in San Rafael.

Reasons to visit

  • Marin County Civic Center
  • Mission San Rafael Arcangel
  • China Camp State Park
A coastal hiking trail with a sunset view.
Stinson Beach
Known for Beaches, Sunrises and Relaxing
Get away to romantic Stinson Beach! Enjoy the beaches, sunrises and seaside.

Reasons to visit

  • Stinson Beach
  • Upton Beach
The Golden Gate Bridge at sunset with a cityscape in the background.
Petaluma
Known for Dining, Shopping and Beer
Trip time! Discover the live music, entertainment and riverfront in Petaluma.

Reasons to visit

  • Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park
Ocean waves with a clear blue sky.
Dillon Beach
Known for Beaches
Explore Dillon Beach: its beaches and more!

Stay near popular Marin County attractions