Stinson Beach San Francisco Day Trip What To Do and See

Stinson Beach is located in the Golden Gate Recreation Area, roughly a 30-minute drive from the Golden Gate Bridge on California’s Highway 1. During the summertime, many people flock to Stinson Beach to enjoy a day under the sun and escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.

The hills surrounding Stinson Beach offer hiking and biking trails with sweeping views of the Beach and coastline. The Beach is 3.5 miles long with an adjacent 51-acre park. Nearby, you will find Bolinas Lagoon Preserve, a 1,100-acre tidal estuary, Mount Tamalpais State Park, Muir Woods, and Bolinas, California’s hidden little town.

Stinson Beach Golden Gate Recreation Area

Stinson Beach is known for its beautiful and spacious sandy Beach, which is open all year round. The main entrance gate opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at sunset. Lifeguards are on duty from late May through mid-September, and swimming is not advised at other times of the year. During peak seasons, the parking lots get filled up quickly, usually by 10 a.m. It’s worth noting that dogs are allowed on the county beach (north) but not on the National Park Service section of Stinson Beach.

Where to Eat in Stinson Beach

Dining options in Stinson Beach are limited, but there are enough places to eat to satisfy you during your day trip. Visitors can dine at The Breakers Cafe or Parkside Cafe, both open year-round. In nearby Bolinas, you can find the Coast Cafe and Smiley’s Schooner Saloon, one of the oldest continually operating saloons on the West Coast.

Lodging Stinson Beach, California

Lodging in town is limited to several places, including Stinson Beach Motel and the Sandpiper Motel. The sleepily little village also has a market, an art gallery, and a real estate office. The rest of Stinson consists of homes and the gated community of Seadrift just north of town.

Bolinas, California

Bolinas is a sleepy town whose residents want to keep it that way. No signs are pointing to Bolinas, and this is intentional. Bolinas boasts several historic buildings, including a saloon, a grocery store, and the Bolinas Museum. The museum features artifacts and photographs showcasing the town’s rich history. Minimal lodging options include a small motel behind the saloon and vacation rentals.

Agate Beach Bolinas

Agate Beach is an interesting place to explore and discover tide pools. Before you go, check the tide table, as everything will be hidden during high tide. There is a paved parking lot and a trail that leads down to the Beach. Although Agate rocks are few and far between, the tide pools compensate for the need for collectible stones.

Audubon Canyon Ranch

Audubon Canyon Ranch Nature Preserve is located on the edge of Stinson Beach. The center allows visitors to explore the preserve through guided nature walks several times a year. Audubon Canyon Ranch manages a network of natural reserves spanning 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) across 26 properties in Marin County and Sonoma County.

Before You Go

Stinson Beach is a charming small town that looks right out of the 1960s. It is a picturesque day trip destination from San Francisco or a convenient stopover point on your journey north along Highway One. The best times to visit are during the spring or early fall when there are fewer crowds. If you plan to visit during the summer, starting your day trip early is recommended to make the most of your time.

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San Francisco Botanical Garden

Bay Area Discovery Museum

San Francisco Bay Cruise

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