Stinson Beach (the beach) is located in Stinson Beach (the town) near Bolinas on the western shore of Marin County. Stinson Beach, CA is not only considered beautiful by the surfers and tourists who frequent it's coastline, but it's renowned for its cleanliness and idyllic setting. If, however, you're not interested in the 3.5 miles of surf available to the more adventurous among us, Stinson beach is a popular destination for day trippers and weekend family visitors. Just spend 5 minutes at Stinson Beach, and you'll see why it is such a popular spot, and why you'll want to come back, again and again.
The beach is not the only beauty spot in this area, surrounded as it is, by Point Reyes National Seashore, Mount Tamalpais, Muir Beach, and Muir Woods National Monument. In fact, the well trodden hiking trails around Mount Tamalpais link to the beach, meaning once you've walked a few miles and taken in the beautiful scenery, you can throw your towel down on the beach take in some rays from the sun.
The beach is a popular destination so sometimes it gets a little full and you might want to seek refuge in one of the many restaurants and attractions that line the shore. One of the main attractions is a visit to the Point Reyes Lighthouse. Constructed in 1870 to guide ships through the rocky coastline, it is now a popular whale watching destination and there are three main visitor information centers where you can find out much more information.
Probably the most popular dining destination on the beach is the Sand Dollar Restaurant. Sand Dollar is renowned for good food and at night, the atmosphere is increased by the many live bands that grace its stage. If, after your meal, you want to stay the night and have another day along at the beach the following day a selection of hotels are available. The most popular are the Sandpiper and the Stinson Beach Motel, both of which offer comfortable living at affordable prices. There are, however, better ways to stay in this area including Stinson Beach Bed and Breakfast Inns.
The beach has many facilities, including restrooms, picnic areas and showers. One downside is that these showers only supply cold water. In the summer months BBQ areas are available although, only on a first come, first served basis.
If you still can't decide whether you want to visit Stinson beach, consider the many films that have been filmed here, the books set here and the songs written about this very beach, so it must be worth seeing for yourself.
The beach is located only 35 minutes drive from the historic Golden Gate Bridge, via Highway 101 and Highway one. There are two main routes: The first is to cross the golden gate bridge onto Highway 101, for about 3 miles and then take the 'Highway One, Stinson Beach' turning, and enjoy a scenic ride of only twenty minutes from San Fransisco. The second route is to travel along Highway One Stinson Beach, and then take the turning to Muir Woods and Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Whichever you choose, both are scenic, winding and enjoyable. There is ample parking around the beach area but it fills up quickly on weekends and holidays, so make sure you get there early!
