Point Reyes Bay Area Day Trip Top Ten Things To Do

Point Reyes is set on a cape around 30 miles northwest of San Francisco. Much of the surrounding area is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore Reserve and enjoys strict environmental protection. This has resulted in healthy populations of marine and land mammals.

Once hunted nearly to extinction, both the Northern Elephant Seal and the Tule Elk now thrive in the area. Many seabirds, including pelicans, call Marin County home, and birdwatchers will not be disappointed. Whatever you do, Point Reyes is sure to please.

1. Marin French Cheese Company

There is plenty to see and do in pretty Point Reyes. En route, you’ll also find several attractions that deserve a stopover. Indeed, one of the most popular is the Marin French Cheese Company. The Marin enterprise is a manufacturer of some of the finest artisan cheeses to be found in California. Be sure and arrive hungry, for you’re certain to end up sampling some of the tastiest dairy delights around.

The Marin Company’s soft cheeses are a specialty. There are creamy Camemberts and Brie that melt in your mouth. Several pungent blue types of cheese are available for those who prefer a more full-flavored product. There are a pond and park area where you can picnic or walk the dog. The valley where the company is located is picturesque, and the climate is mild. Website. 7510 Point Reyes-Petaluma Rd, Novato, California.

2. Explore Tomales Bay

Kayak along the shores of Tomales Bay, or explore the submarine world with a scuba dive guide. There are Bat Rays and hundreds of species of fish to see. Curious seals may sneak in for a peek and even swim alongside you. The tidal pools are home to the tiniest crustaceans, while the Giacomini Wetlands area has bigger fish to find.

3. Point Reyes Lighthouse

The Point Reyes Lighthouse was completed in 1870. The lighthouse is in the windiest and foggiest place on the Pacific Coast. Visitors must descend a long pathway with 308 steps to reach the lighthouse. There is also a visitors center on-site that features exhibits and historic photographs of shipwrecks. And information on the area’s maritime history. Lighthouse Visitor Center, 27000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, California. Website.

4. Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center

The Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center is located adjacent to Drakes Beach. The center features exhibits about early maritime exploration, marine fossils, and marine environments. There is also a full-size whale skeleton on display here. This is one of two visitor centers at the Point Reyes National Seashore. There is no entrance fee to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.

5. Bear Valley Visitor Center

Bear Valley visitor center is a great place to start your visit to Point Reyes. You can pick up a map, check out the gift shop, look at exhibits, and get a permit for a fire on the beach. There are also shady picnic areas and clean restrooms. Finally, there is a 2-mile trail leading from the center to the summit of Mt. Wittenberg. Address 1 Bear Valley Road.

6. Point Reyes Station

The small town of Point Reyes Station is located along State Route 1 and is considered the gateway to the Point Reyes National Seashore. Point Reyes started as a stop along the North Pacific Coast narrow-gauge railroad. The town’s train depot still stands and is now the post office. Today, visitors can find an excellent selection of restaurants, stores, and accommodations, including bed & breakfast inns.

7. Farmstead Cheese Company

Point Reyes Cheese Company is located three miles north of Point Reyes Station along CA-1. Walking farm tours and cheese tastings must be reserved in advance. Classes, dinners, wine tasting, and special events are also available at Point Reyes Cheese Company. Check the farm website for details.

8. Bovine Bakery Pastries and Bear Claws

Home-baked goods are featured at the Bovine Bakery, one of the busiest breakfast spots in town. Locals and tourists rave about the blueberry fruit pies, croissants, and pain au chocolat. A few tables are available, but you may have to park yourself on a piece of pavement during the lunch and breakfast rush. The bear claws are baked fresh every morning and so big you’ll need both hands to eat one! 11315 CA-1. Website.

Point Reyes Station Inn Bed & Breakfast

Accommodation options range from homey Beds & Breakfasts to cottages by the beach. Many places are pet-friendly, but it’s a good idea to double-check when booking. Point Reyes Station Inn is located in the town of Point Reyes and is a beautiful place for a weekend retreat or romantic getaway—address 11591 CA-1. Several campgrounds are in the area for those who want a complete outdoor experience.

Getting There

Point Reyes Station is located in West Marin County, about 30 miles from San Francisco. A nice round-trip from the Bay Area is via Point Reyes-Petaluma Road on the way there. You are returning along Highway 1 on the return trip. The most direct route is Highway 1 through Stinson Beach and on to your destination.

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