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Curated picks from the heart of Marin. These aren't just businesses—they're the spots that make Marin County feel like home.
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Pro tip: If it's your first time, order the pollo with tostones and ask for extra lemon-garlic dressing and pique on the side - then grab a bottle to take home if they're available.

Food & Drink
4.6
Sol Food


Sol Food - Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine in the Heart of Marin
Some restaurants feed you. Sol Food transports you. What SOL FOOD began in 2003 as a four-person operation at the San Rafael 4th Street Farmers' Market has grown into one of Marin County's most beloved culinary institutions - a place where the flavors of the Caribbean have found a permanent, joyful home in Northern California.
Founded by Marisol Hernandez, who drew from her Puerto Rican heritage to bring traditional flavors to a new audience, Sol Food was built on the idea that food should feel like home. That spirit has never left. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular who's lost count of your visits, walking through the door of that iconic green building on Lincoln Avenue feels like an occasion.
The Food
The menu is a celebration of comida criolla - the soulful, bold, and deeply satisfying cooking of Puerto Rico. Sol Food is known for its incredibly fresh ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and its legendary homemade sauces, including a Pique hot sauce and a Lemon Garlic dressing that locals have been known to order by the bottle. Standouts include the bistec encebollado (thinly sliced steak with sauteed onions), the pollo marinated in oregano and garlic, and the mofongo - fried green plantain mashed with fresh garlic and olive oil that is as close to perfection as a side dish gets. Don't leave without trying the tostones. You'll be thinking about them on the drive home.
The Locations
Sol Food now operates three locations: The Green Building and La Bodega (the dedicated pick-up spot next door), both on Lincoln Avenue in San Rafael, and a Mill Valley location on Miller Avenue. Dine-in, takeout, and catering are all available, and Sol Food has become a go-to for everything from casual weeknight dinners to office catering and private gatherings.
San Rafael (Dine-In) - 901 Lincoln Ave - (415) 451-4765
La Bodega (Pickup) - 903 Lincoln Ave - San Rafael
Mill Valley - 401 Miller Ave - (415) 380-1986
Sol Food is open seven days a week. Visit solfoodrestaurant.com to explore the full menu or place a pickup order.
Pro tip: If it's your first time, order the pollo with tostones and ask for extra lemon-garlic dressing and pique on the side - then grab a bottle to take home if they're available.
#Puerto Rican#Comfort Food#San Rafael#Lincoln Ave
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends and put your name in right away - waits can build fast, and the first seating usually has the best oyster availability.

Food & Drink
4.4
Cafe Reyes


Cafe Reyes - Wood-Fired Pizza & Fresh Local Oysters in Point Reyes Station
There are restaurants you stumble upon, and then there are restaurants you plan your whole day around. Cafe Reyes, tucked along Highway 1 in the charming village of Point Reyes Station, has quietly become one of West Marin's most celebrated dining destinations - and once you've had the pizza, you'll understand exactly why.
This unassuming charmer is a perfect stop for day-trippers, with delicious dishes emerging from its duo of wood-fired ovens. The setting is relaxed and unpretentious - the big, spacious, barn-like dining room is rustic, unfussy, and perfect for groups - but the food is anything but casual.
The Pizza
Cafe Reyes specializes in authentic thin-crust Neapolitan wood-fired pizza, prepared with Caputo 00 flour, wild starter, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh local ingredients - including Niman Ranch all-natural fennel sausage, uncured dry salame, organic greens, and Point Reyes Farmstead Blue Cheese. The pies are named after local destinations - the Limantour, the Bodega, the Farallon - and range from a classic Margherita to meaty, deeply satisfying combinations. The crust carries a light, perfect char from the fire, and the quality of every ingredient comes through in every bite.
The Oysters
No visit to Cafe Reyes is complete without the oysters. Sourced right out of Drakes Bay, they arrive with lemon, Tabasco, and mignonette sauce - as fresh and briny as West Marin gets. Pair them with one of the rotating beers on tap or a selection from the wine list, and you've got a meal that feels like the best possible reward after a day on the trails or the water.
The Experience
You can eat indoors in the warm, cozy dining room or grab a seat at one of the outdoor park bench-style tables. It's casual, communal, and completely in step with the laid-back spirit of West Marin. Word of advice: arrive early - the place fills up fast and waits can stretch on busy evenings. It's worth every minute.
Cafe Reyes has earned a spot in the Michelin Guide - a quiet but fitting nod to a restaurant that has always let the quality of its ingredients and the integrity of its craft do the talking.
11101 Highway 1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
(415) 663-9493
Open Thursday-Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Visit cafereyes.biz for current hours.
Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends and put your name in right away - waits can build fast, and the first seating usually has the best oyster availability.
#Cafe#Point Reyes Station#CA-1#Dining
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Order the butter chicken and garlic naan for your first visit, then add pakoras for the table and ask for patio seating around golden hour.

Food & Drink
4.6
Cafe Lotus

Cafe Lotus - Organic Indian Cuisine with a Heart, Right in the Heart of Fairfax
In a town as tight-knit and community-driven as Fairfax, earning the title of local favorite is not something that happens overnight. It is built meal by meal, year by year, through good food and even better values. Cafe Lotus, owned and operated by Surinder "Pal" Sroa and his son Jyoti Sroa, was born from a dream to bring authentic Indian flavors to Marin County - and what they have built on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard has become something far bigger than a restaurant. It is a gathering place, a neighborhood institution, and a genuine expression of community love.
The Food
Cafe Lotus serves North Indian cuisine with a deep commitment to organic ingredients, natural meats, and fresh local produce - with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options woven throughout the menu. The butter chicken is the stuff of local legend. The saag paneer is silky, richly spiced, and perfectly balanced. The garlic naan arrives warm and fragrant, and the pakoras - crispy onion fritters fried in a mildly spiced garbanzo flour batter - are exactly the kind of thing you find yourself thinking about on the drive home. Cafe Lotus has been nominated Best Indian Restaurant in Marin County and recognized by major dining guides - recognition that reflects what Fairfax locals have known for years.
The Space
Bright, rosy interiors adorned with traditional Indian decor create an ambiance that is both cozy and culturally rich. A spacious patio out back enhances the dining experience, offering the perfect spot to linger over a curry and a glass of wine on a warm Marin evening. The vibe is warm and unhurried - exactly what Fairfax does best.
A Restaurant That Gives Back
What truly sets Cafe Lotus apart from the crowd is not just what is on the plate - it is the spirit behind the kitchen. The Sroa family has become known throughout Fairfax for their tradition of giving away food on Thanksgiving, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the community that has supported them for so many years. In a town that prides itself on looking out for its neighbors, Cafe Lotus walks the walk. It is the kind of place where the owners know your name, where the staff genuinely cares, and where being a regular feels like being part of something.
1912 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930
(415) 457-7836
Open daily, noon to 9 PM. Online ordering, pickup, and delivery available at cafelotus.com.
Pro tip: Order the butter chicken and garlic naan for your first visit, then add pakoras for the table and ask for patio seating around golden hour.
#Indian#Organic#Fairfax#Patio
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Ask hosts Mara and Todd for a same-day trail and tide plan when you check in - their local recommendations can turn a good stay into an unforgettable Point Reyes day.

Hotels & Lodging
4.3
Motel Inverness

Motel Inverness - Boutique Lodging on Tomales Bay in the Heart of Point Reyes National Seashore
If you've been searching for the perfect base camp for exploring Point Reyes National Seashore, your search ends here. Motel Inverness sits on the salt marshes of Tomales Bay, surrounded by the Tomales Bay Ecological Reserve, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Tomales Bay State Park - making it one of the most uniquely positioned lodging properties in all of Marin County. This is not a hotel. It is an experience.
Intimate, Thoughtfully Designed Rooms
With just seven rooms, Motel Inverness offers an intimate, quiet, and friendly environment perfectly suited for nature lovers, birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone who truly enjoys the outdoors. Each cozy room includes a private bathroom, flat screen TV, and coffeemaker, while select rooms feature vaulted ceilings, skylights, and private decks. Suites add kitchenettes and sweeping bay views. No two rooms are alike - each one has its own character and charm, and guests return year after year to their favorites.
The Lodge - A Gathering Place Like No Other
At the center of the property is the main lodge, and it is genuinely special. The great room features a wonderful fireplace, a pool table, tables for board games, birdwatching chalkboards, and a gorgeous deck overlooking the bay. Whether you're warming up after a day on the trails or watching the stars come out over Tomales Bay, the lodge makes you feel less like a hotel guest and more like a welcomed houseguest. The expansive deck is the perfect place to watch the sunrise while sipping on coffee or tea.
A Birdwatcher's Paradise
Hummingbirds fill the gardens, kingfishers and owls nest out back, and Great Egrets and Herons are a year-round presence along the marsh. Birders travel from around the world to stay here, and it is easy to see why - you do not even have to leave the property to start spotting remarkable wildlife. Guests have also reported deer and otters right on the grounds.
The Perfect Location for Exploring West Marin
Motel Inverness sits directly on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, putting some of the most iconic destinations in the region within easy reach. The legendary Cypress Tree Tunnel, Chimney Rock Trail, and the Point Reyes Lighthouse are all within a short drive. Point Reyes Station - with its casual dining restaurants, grocery store, and beloved bakery - is just three miles away, and the Inverness Park Market, just one mile down the road, offers espresso, breakfast sandwiches, and a great to-go menu.
Hosts Who Make the Difference
Time and again, guests single out hosts Mara and Todd as what truly elevates a stay at Motel Inverness from great to unforgettable. Warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in their guests' experience, they offer personalized trail recommendations, restaurant tips, and the kind of hospitality that is increasingly rare. Many guests have booked out the entire motel for special occasions - weddings, anniversaries, and milestone getaways - a testament to how deeply this little property gets under your skin.
Open year-round.
12718 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, CA 94937
(415) 236-1967
motelinverness.com
Pro tip: Ask hosts Mara and Todd for a same-day trail and tide plan when you check in - their local recommendations can turn a good stay into an unforgettable Point Reyes day.
#Lodging#Inverness#Point Reyes#Coastal
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Check the events calendar before you go and arrive before evening events start - parking and popular in-store sessions fill up quickly.

Retail & Shopping
4.9
Proof Lab Surf Shop

Proof Lab - Mill Valley's Legendary Surf, Skate & Outdoor Community Hub
There are surf shops, and then there is Proof Lab. Situated at the gateway to Northern California's most iconic coastal playground, Proof Lab is a sprawling shop in redwood-lined Mill Valley, founded by Will Hutchinson and Nate McCarthy with a mission to build more than just a place to pick up surf equipment - they wanted to create a true community hub. More than two decades later, that vision has become one of the most celebrated independent outdoor retail destinations in the entire Bay Area.
The Largest Surf & Skate Shop in the Bay Area
Proof Lab claims the title of the largest surf and skate shop in the Bay Area, and one visit makes it immediately clear why. Housed in a multifaceted warehouse at Tam Junction, you'll find a vast selection of surf and skate brands, hundreds of hand-picked surfboards, skateboards, SUP boards, wetsuits, an indoor skatepark, the Equator Coffee shop, and the Magic West Music School. It is the kind of place where you come in for a wetsuit and walk out two hours later having discovered something you did not know you needed - in the best possible way.
Three Distinct Storefronts, One Remarkable Campus
Proof Lab operates three distinct storefronts on the same property. The main Surf/Skate Shop anchors the campus with its 10,000-square-foot warehouse, housing hundreds of boards, a custom indoor skatepark, a ding repair facility, and music lesson studios. Next door, Proof Lab Station is a modern outdoor apparel boutique featuring heritage and performance brands including Patagonia, Filson, Pendleton, Carhartt, Red Wing Shoes, and Blundstone - with one of the largest selections of Patagonia gear in Marin County. Rounding out the campus is GROW, a sustainability-themed art and garden center built on a formerly vacant lot.
Fuel Up at Equator Coffees
Located right on the Proof Lab campus, Equator Coffees has been a gathering place for coffee lovers, surfers, skaters, and outdoor adventurers since 2013 - the very first Equator cafe location ever opened. Sun-filled patio spaces, reclaimed redwood design details, free WiFi, and a steady stream of cyclists, surfers, runners, and families make it the perfect pre-adventure fuel stop before heading out to Stinson Beach, Muir Beach, or the trails of Mount Tamalpais.
More Than a Shop - A Way of Life
Proof Lab describes itself as the local community watering hole for all things surf, skate, music, art, outdoor, coffee, and environmental in Marin County - and that description is earned. From surf film festivals and local maker markets to music lessons and environmental events, Proof Lab is woven into the cultural fabric of West Marin in a way that no chain retailer ever could be. It has been featured in Surfer Magazine as a dream surf shop unlike most any surf shop you've ever seen.
The Ideal Location for Marin's Outdoor Lifestyle
Perched at Tam Junction on Shoreline Highway, Proof Lab sits at the crossroads of everything Marin County does best. Stinson Beach, Muir Beach, Muir Woods, and the legendary trails of Mount Tamalpais are all minutes away - making this the ultimate outfitter, gathering spot, and community anchor for locals and visitors alike.
244-254 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 380-8900
prooflab.com
Open Monday-Thursday 10AM-6PM; Friday-Saturday 10AM-7PM
Whether you're a seasoned surfer chasing swells at Stinson, a skater looking for your next deck, a hiker gearing up for Tam, or simply someone who appreciates an independent shop that genuinely gives back to its community - Proof Lab is a must-stop destination in Marin County.
Pro tip: Check the events calendar before you go and arrive before evening events start - parking and popular in-store sessions fill up quickly.
#Surf#Skate#Outdoor#Mill Valley
Local Favorite
Pro tip: The entrance faces the Bay - not Bridgeway. Follow Marinship Way off Bridgeway and look for the large industrial building with the rounded roof sections. Once you find the parking lot, the main entrance opens up in front of you. Do not miss the Marinship WWII exhibit on your way through - it is a remarkable piece of Sausalito history that most visitors walk right past.

Arts & Entertainment
4.7
Bay Model Visitor Center

Bay Model Visitor Center - One of Sausalito's Most Fascinating and Completely Free Attractions
Most people cross the Golden Gate Bridge and head straight for Sausalito's waterfront shops and restaurants - and while that is a perfectly fine afternoon, it means missing one of the most genuinely mind-bending attractions in all of the Bay Area. Tucked into the historic Marinship neighborhood just off Bridgeway, the Bay Model Visitor Center is the kind of place that makes you stop mid-step and say: I had no idea this existed. And once you have been, you will never look at San Francisco Bay the same way again.
Best of all? Admission is completely free.
What Is the Bay Model?
Inside the Bay Model Visitor Center is one of the most fascinating scientific tools you'll ever encounter: a working hydraulic model of San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta System. It is still operational and open to the public alongside educational exhibits about Bay hydrology. Nested on the Sausalito shoreline and administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this federal visitor center offers the public the opportunity to view a 1.5-acre, three-dimensional, hand-sculpted hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta System.
The scale of it is genuinely staggering. The model is approximately 320 feet long in the north-south direction and about 400 feet long in the east-west direction, constructed out of 286 five-ton concrete slabs joined together like a jigsaw puzzle. The size of two football fields, it offers a sweeping view of the vast waterway system of the entire region. Special walkways allow you to walk directly into the model itself - not just around the edges - making the experience feel less like a museum visit and more like standing inside the bay at an impossible altitude.
The History - How the Bay Model Saved San Francisco Bay
The story behind the Bay Model is as compelling as the model itself. In the late 1940s, John Reber proposed to build two large dams in San Francisco Bay as a way to provide freshwater supply and connect local communities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers needed a way to study exactly what this would do to one of the most complex estuary systems on the planet. The Bay Model was built in 1958 to help scientists and decision-makers understand the waters of San Francisco Bay and how engineering projects - such as damming and dredging - could impact the ecosystem. The model's findings ultimately helped demonstrate that the Reber Plan would have been catastrophically damaging to the Bay's ecosystem - and the project was abandoned. In short, this humble building in Sausalito played a direct role in saving San Francisco Bay as we know it.
Beyond the Model - Exhibits, Art, and Living History
In addition to the world-renowned Bay Model, the Visitor Center features a World War II Marinship Exhibit, local art displays, a native plant garden, and much more. The center includes immersive watershed exhibits, large interpretive murals, and interactive elements that make complex hydrology concepts easy to understand. It also hosts a rotating gallery of regional and international artists throughout the year, making it a surprisingly rich cultural stop as well as a scientific one.
Perfect for Families, Students, and Curious Minds of Any Age
The staff at the Bay Model love answering questions - ask them on site or call before you come and they will respond enthusiastically, all free of charge. Teachers are invited to bring their classes for free tours and educational programs, and the center regularly hosts scientific and educational groups for meetings and seminars. Guided tours run on Saturdays at 11:00 AM - approximately 45 minutes long - or visitors can grab a map and explore at their own pace. Most guests spend one to two hours, though it is easy to linger longer once the scale of the place sinks in.
2100 Bridgeway Blvd, Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 332-3871
Open Tuesday-Friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Closed Sunday, Monday, and Federal Holidays. Free admission and free parking on-site.
Pro tip: The entrance faces the Bay - not Bridgeway. Follow Marinship Way off Bridgeway and look for the large industrial building with the rounded roof sections. Once you find the parking lot, the main entrance opens up in front of you. Do not miss the Marinship WWII exhibit on your way through - it is a remarkable piece of Sausalito history that most visitors walk right past.
#Museum#Sausalito#Family#Education
Local Favorite
Pro tip: If you are doing a full shop, go early and start with prepared foods and bakery first - popular hot-bar items and fresh pastries sell out quickest.

Food & Drink
4.6
Good Earth
Good Earth Natural Foods - Marin County's Beloved Independent Organic Grocer Since 1969
Long before organic became a buzzword and natural food went mainstream, Good Earth Natural Foods was already doing the hard work - sourcing the cleanest ingredients, pushing suppliers toward higher standards, and feeding Marin County with an uncompromising commitment to the health of both people and planet. Proudly serving Marin County since 1969, Good Earth is not just a grocery store. It is a Marin institution, and for tens of thousands of locals, it is the only place they would consider doing their weekly shop.
Independent, Local, and Uncompromising
Good Earth is an independent natural and organic grocer - not a chain, not a franchise - with deep roots in the Marin community going back to its earliest days on Bolinas Road in Fairfax. Co-owners Mark Squire and Al Baylacq have built something genuinely rare in modern retail: a grocery store with a soul. From the very beginning, Good Earth has never been content to simply accept the status quo - always pushing the envelope, encouraging food growers and manufacturers to produce food of a higher quality, and holding organic certification as its fundamental quality standard because of the protections it provides for people and planet alike.
The Largest Selection of Organic in Marin County
Good Earth has remained dedicated to supporting the health and sustainability of the community for over 55 years, working diligently to offer customers the largest selection of organic products in Marin County. Every aisle reflects that commitment - from certified organic produce and responsibly raised meats to sustainable seafood, artisan cheeses, biodynamic and sustainable wines, and an extensive bulk herbs and teas section that dedicated health-conscious shoppers have been pulling from for decades. Throughout both stores, foods are grown and prepared using a minimum of processing and no chemical pesticides, herbicides, or food additives.
A Full Marketplace Under One Roof
What sets Good Earth apart from every other natural food option in Marin is the sheer depth of what is available under one roof. The prepared foods program alone is worth the trip. The in-store kitchen offers hot and cold deli sandwiches, a vegetarian salad and hot food bar, an authentic taqueria, a wok and grill, natural stews and seafood chowders, rotisserie organic chicken, fresh sushi, an organic bakery, and a full cafe serving organic juices, smoothies, and espresso drinks. Whether you are grabbing a quick lunch, stocking a vacation rental, or doing a full weekly shop, Good Earth covers it all with a quality level that consistently outshines far larger competitors.
Two Locations - and a Third on the Way
Good Earth currently operates two beloved Marin County locations - Fairfax Plaza at 720 Center Blvd in Fairfax, and the Shoreline Marketplace in Tam Valley at 201 Flamingo Rd in Mill Valley. Both stores are open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with online ordering, curbside pickup, and local delivery available. And for North Marin shoppers, a third location is planned for the Terra Linda neighborhood of San Rafael, expected to open in Spring 2027 - bringing Good Earth's commitment to clean, organic food to an even wider corner of the county.
A Community Anchor for Over 55 Years
Generations of Marin families have grown up shopping at Good Earth - trusting its buyers to vet what is on the shelves so they do not have to. The staff is knowledgeable, the standards are transparent, and the experience of shopping there feels nothing like a conventional grocery run. It feels like a community act. In a county that has always cared deeply about how food is grown and where it comes from, Good Earth Natural Foods has been the standard-bearer for over half a century - and shows no signs of slowing down.
Fairfax - 720 Center Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930
Mill Valley (Tam Valley) - 201 Flamingo Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941
genatural.com
Open daily 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Online ordering, curbside pickup, and local delivery available.
Pro tip: If you are doing a full shop, go early and start with prepared foods and bakery first - popular hot-bar items and fresh pastries sell out quickest.
#Market#Cafe#Organic#Mill Valley
Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm which location best fits your treatment plan and bring your insurance details to the first visit so the team can speed up claim coordination.

Health & Wellness
4.2
Marin Reconstructive Periodontics
Reconstructive Periodontics - Serving Marin County
For patients across Marin County, Reconstructive Periodontics has built a reputation on something that too many dental specialists overlook: the patient experience. With offices in both San Rafael and Novato, the practice is designed from the ground up around comfort, accessibility, and straightforward communication - so that from your very first visit, you feel informed and at ease.
Scheduling Made Simple
Booking an appointment is hassle-free, with options available directly through their website or by phone. The team understands that life happens - if you need to reschedule or expect a delay, a quick call is all it takes to keep things running smoothly.
Flexible Insurance & Payment Options
Reconstructive Periodontics accepts most traditional insurance plans and will gladly file claims on your behalf to help maximize your reimbursement. While the practice does not participate in HMO networks, their Financial Coordinator works with patients to find payment solutions that fit - including flexible payment plans. They accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards.
Two Convenient Marin County Locations
San Rafael - (415) 454-1064
Novato - (415) 898-6660
Ready to take the next step toward better periodontal health? Contact Reconstructive Periodontics today to schedule your appointment.
Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm which location best fits your treatment plan and bring your insurance details to the first visit so the team can speed up claim coordination.
#Periodontics#Dental Implants#San Rafael#Novato
Pro tip: Request a room with a fireplace and book a weekend dinner on the terrace at sunset - the view of Mill Valley and the Bay from 900 feet up, as the sky turns gold, is one of the most spectacular sights in all of Marin County. Book well in advance for spring and summer weekends.

Food & Drink
3.8
Mountain Home Inn
Mountain Home Inn - A Century-Old Sanctuary Atop Mt. Tamalpais in Mill Valley
Some places stop you in your tracks the moment you arrive. Mountain Home Inn is one of those places. Like an eagle's nest, the inn sits atop a Mt. Tamalpais ridge with a view as far as you can see - a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the village of Mill Valley 900 feet below, and the Bay beyond. Bordered by Muir Woods and the peaks of Mt. Tamalpais, surrounded by trails that fan out in every direction, and wrapped in over a century of history and warmth, Mountain Home Inn is one of the most singular lodging experiences in all of Marin County - and one of the most romantic destinations in the entire Bay Area.
Over 100 Years of History on the Mountain
Established in 1912, Mountain Home Inn was lovingly crafted by a Swiss couple inspired to create a mountain chalet in the hills by the ocean. Built as a mountain getaway for San Franciscans seeking an escape to nature, it has since served the entire Bay Area as a welcome stop for hiking enthusiasts - and even celebrities. Jack London and the Grateful Dead have both stayed here. Named a Date Destination by Marin Magazine's Best of Marin, the inn carries more than a century of stories within its walls, and that history is felt in every carefully preserved detail - from the vintage photographs of the inn framed on guestroom doors to the crackling wood-burning fireplaces that make even a foggy winter night feel like an occasion.
The Rooms - Rustic Charm with Views That Take Your Breath Away
Mountain Home Inn is a romantic 10-room boutique hotel nestled on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais, offering accommodations that range from cozy standard rooms to spacious king suites. The inn's largest rooms come with king beds, fireplaces, free high-speed WiFi, Bluetooth radio, and smart HD TVs - modern comforts wrapped in the kind of rustic, woodsy atmosphere that makes you want to stay an extra night. Deluxe rooms feature queen beds and select fireplaces, and every room carries the warm, unhurried feeling of a true mountain retreat. An abundance of wood, both inside and out, lends warmth to every corner of the property, as do the numerous fireplaces and homey details throughout.
For guests traveling with four-legged companions, Mountain Home Inn is proudly dog-friendly, welcoming pets with a plush sheepskin bed, a cozy blanket, a designated bowl, and a jar of premium treats - because a mountain getaway is always better with the whole family.
The Location - The Nearest Hotel to Muir Woods and Mt. Tam Trails
Mountain Home Inn is the nearest hotel to Muir Woods, with hiking trails fanning out directly from the property. Many of Mt. Tamalpais's most famous trails begin or end right at the inn, making it the ideal base camp for serious hikers and casual strollers alike. The Pacific Ocean beaches are ten minutes away, the Golden Gate Bridge is 20 minutes south, and Point Reyes is a half-hour drive north on Highway 1 - placing Mountain Home Inn at the geographic heart of everything that makes Marin County extraordinary. During summer, the inn often sits just above the cool thick marine fog layer, with the sun-beaten peaks above and the cloud-wrapped valley below - a surreal and spectacular perch unlike anything else in the region.
Dining - Fresh, Lovingly Prepared, with Views to Match
The inn's restaurant offers fare that is fresh and lovingly prepared, with a menu that changes seasonally and leans into the Northern California tradition of letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. Breakfast is served daily and complimentary for overnight guests. The dinner menu features standouts like Niman Ranch steak and burgers, seafood ceviche, artisan cheese boards, and a weekend seafood paella loaded with shrimp, calamari, clams, mussels, saffron rice, and chorizo that guests return specifically for. A bar featuring select regional wines and beers rounds out the experience, and the sun-drenched terrace is the perfect place to linger over a glass while watching the light shift across the Bay far below.
The Perfect Marin County Escape - Weddings, Retreats, and Romance
Mountain Home Inn is one of Marin County's most sought-after wedding venues, with its combination of sweeping natural beauty, intimate scale, and century-old character creating a backdrop that no purpose-built event space can replicate. It is equally beloved for anniversary getaways, birthday celebrations, corporate retreats, and solo escapes - any occasion that calls for stepping completely out of everyday life and into somewhere genuinely magnificent.
810 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 381-9000
mtnhomeinn.com
Open daily. Restaurant hours Monday-Friday 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Free on-site parking. Dog-friendly. Rates from $226/night.
Pro tip: Request a room with a fireplace and book a weekend dinner on the terrace at sunset - the view of Mill Valley and the Bay from 900 feet up, as the sky turns gold, is one of the most spectacular sights in all of Marin County. Book well in advance for spring and summer weekends.
#Inn#Dining#Mill Valley#Panoramic
Pro tip: For a one-of-a-kind statement piece, contact Shayne for a custom fine art print tailored to your space. He can match size, palette, and subject from his Northern California archive to suit your interior.

Services
4.7
Fine Art by S.Skower

Shayne Skower Photography - Fine Art Nature Photography from the Heart of West Marin
Some photographers take pictures. Shayne Skower captures something rarer - the feeling of standing at the edge of the wild California coast as the moon rises over the water, the breath-catching moment when light breaks through fog over Mt. Tamalpais, the split second when a great egret takes flight over Bolinas Lagoon. His fine art prints bring the wilderness to your walls, and once you have seen them, the difference between a photograph and a piece of art becomes unmistakably clear.
Based in Marin County and deeply rooted in the landscapes of West Marin, Shayne Skower has built an international reputation for nature and landscape photography that is as meditative as it is technically masterful - work that does not just document the natural world but distills its most transcendent moments into images meant to last a lifetime.
A Career Forged in Film, Refined in the Digital Age
Shayne has been working behind the lens for more than 20 years, starting originally as a film photographer. His darkroom training in the 1990s plays a strong role in his work today. That analog foundation gives his images a quality of light and patience that is increasingly rare in an era of instant photography. His very first day shooting with a digital camera, he went to the Golden Gate Bridge to experiment - and one of those images was published by Marin Magazine in the bridge's 75th anniversary issue. It was a sign of things to come.
Featured in National Geographic, Time Magazine and Marin Magazine
Shayne's photography has been recognized worldwide, earning attention from National Geographic and Marin Magazine among many other publications and galleries. His fine art prints have been featured in Time Magazine, National Geographic, and Marin Magazine - recognition that speaks to both the technical excellence and emotional power of his work. Being spotlighted by National Geographic's Your Shot program, one of the most competitive photography platforms in the world, placed him among an elite international community of visual artists.
The Work - Moonsets, Sunrises, Wildlife, and the Soul of Northern California
Shayne's goal with every image is simple and profound: he wants people to look at his photographs and feel relieved, if only for a split second, and forget the chaos of the world long enough to feel at peace. That intention is felt in every frame. His subjects are the landscapes and wildlife of Northern California - the rugged Marin coastline, moonlit cliffs above the Pacific, the tidal rhythms of Bolinas Lagoon, and wildlife caught in unguarded moments of beauty - all rendered with the patience and precision of someone who understands that the best natural light waits for no one.
His annual West Marin exhibitions feature a wide variety of large-scale, limited-edition, museum-quality prints focusing on the nature of Northern California - moonsets, sunrises, and a close look at the wildlife of Marin caught in action. These are not reproductions or open-edition prints; they are true limited-edition fine art pieces, each one a collectible that appreciates in rarity as editions sell.
Annual Exhibitions Across West Marin
Shayne holds annual galleries of his own in Marin County, bringing his work directly to the community that inspires it. His recurring exhibitions at the Bolinas Gallery and other West Marin venues have become anticipated events on the local arts calendar - a chance to see his large-scale prints in person, meet the artist himself, and experience what it feels like when a photograph stops you in your tracks.
Limited Edition Prints - Available Online and by Commission
Shayne's prints are available through his website in a range of sizes and formats, from intimate pieces to dramatic large-format gallery prints that anchor an entire room. Every print is produced to museum-quality standards - archival inks, premium substrates, and the same obsessive attention to detail that defines his work behind the camera.
Shayne@Skower.com
shayneskower.com
@OfficialShayneSkower on Facebook
Pro tip: For a one-of-a-kind statement piece, contact Shayne for a custom fine art print tailored to your space. He can match size, palette, and subject from his Northern California archive to suit your interior.
#Photography#Portraits#Events#Marin
Local Favorite
Pro tip: King of the Roll is cash-friendly, so come prepared - and if Chef John Wayne is behind the bar when you arrive, let him guide your order. You will not regret it.

Food & Drink
4.4
King of the Roll

King of the Roll - Larkspur's Beloved Sushi Bar with the Freshest Fish in Marin County
If you've spent any time in downtown Larkspur, you've probably noticed the steady stream of regulars making their way to a certain spot on Magnolia Avenue. There is no flashy signage or trendy design concept drawing them in - just consistently fresh fish, generous portions, reasonable prices, and one of the most charismatic sushi chefs in all of Marin County. Welcome to King of the Roll, Larkspur's neighborhood sushi institution.
A Historic Setting with Character to Spare
King of the Roll occupies a genuinely historic building in the heart of Larkspur - the original Larkspur Station of the North Pacific Railway - giving the restaurant a sense of place and history that no amount of interior design can manufacture. Located in downtown Larkspur, it offers affordable, tasty sushi in a relaxed setting where patrons have no need to dress up. The outdoor patio in the back is a particular treat on warm Marin evenings - dine outside and you'll be treated to a parade of cyclists, children, and families strolling past on one of the many pathways that connect the eclectic towns of Marin County.
The Freshest Fish in the County - By Design
What sets King of the Roll apart from the competition is not atmosphere - it is an obsessive commitment to sourcing. Owner and Chef John Wayne personally selects all of the fish, maintaining direct relationships with the fishermen who supply him - a practice that regulars say makes his rolls, sashimi, and nigiri the best tasting in the county. The menu ranges from traditional Japanese dishes to original, mouthwatering rolls crafted by the kitchen, with rotating weekly specials that might include oysters on the half shell, bluefin toro, or uni. The Big Roll - especially in tempura - is the stuff of local legend, and the combination sashimi platters offer remarkable value for the quality on the plate.
The Man Behind the Bar
Chef John Wayne and his wife Vanna have built King of the Roll into a favorite sushi destination in Marin County, known for generous portions of the freshest fish at reasonable prices in a warm, family atmosphere. John is always happy, greets regulars by name, and has turned the sushi bar into something of a stage - equal parts dining experience and entertainment. If he suggests something off-menu or steers you toward the evening's special, take the recommendation without hesitation. He has not steered anyone wrong yet.
A True Marin County Hidden Gem
King of the Roll is not trying to compete with high-end omakase restaurants or trendy fusion concepts. It is something rarer and more valuable - a deeply local, unpretentious spot where the quality of the food speaks entirely for itself, where the owner knows your order, and where the patio out back on a sunny Marin afternoon feels like one of the better-kept secrets in the county.
King of the Roll holds a strong local Google rating and has maintained a loyal following for years - proof that in Marin County, the best places do not need much more than great food and genuine hospitality to earn a permanent place in the community.
552 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, CA 94939
(415) 924-1900
Open daily 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Dine-in, outdoor patio, and takeout available.
Pro tip: King of the Roll is cash-friendly, so come prepared - and if Chef John Wayne is behind the bar when you arrive, let him guide your order. You will not regret it.
#Sushi#Larkspur#Magnolia Ave#Dinner
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Ask about rare one-of-a-kind originals currently available - Alan often has singular pieces in the studio that are never reproduced.

Services
5
Alan Giovannetti Designs

AG Jewelry - The Sculptured Wearable Art of Alan Giovannetti
There are jewelers, and then there are artists who happen to work in gold. Alan Giovannetti is firmly, unmistakably the latter. A San Francisco native whose creative roots run deep into the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s, Alan has spent more than five decades perfecting a craft that sits at the rare intersection of fine jewelry, wearable sculpture, and deeply personal artistry. His work is not just made to be worn - it is made to be felt, noticed, and remembered.
The Craft - Lost-Wax, One Drop at a Time
Every piece Alan creates begins the same way: by hand, using the ancient tradition of lost-wax casting, built up one careful drop of wax at a time. There are no shortcuts, no production runs, no two pieces alike. He allows each work to evolve organically as he goes - guided by intuition, honed craftsmanship, and what he describes as a whimsical imagination. Once the form takes shape, he spends hours smoothing and polishing every surface to a perfectionist's standard before setting his chosen embellishments - which might be a precious gemstone, an exotic carving, a piece of beach glass, or a taxidermy eye that caught his attention. The result is jewelry that feels genuinely alive.
The Signature Contour Ring
Alan's most iconic creation is his signature contour ring - a design so thoughtfully conceived it has become a hallmark of his work. Unlike a traditional band ring that simply stops at the finger webbing, a Giovannetti contour ring is sculpted to mold around the natural shape of the finger, elongating and flattering the hand in a way that a conventional ring simply cannot. It is the kind of detail that only comes from decades of obsessive attention to how jewelry actually interacts with the human body - and once you've worn one, a standard band feels like a compromise.
A Legacy Written in Gold
Alan's journey in jewelry began in 1967 when he joined the craft co-op INMATRIX and began working with Brooks Darrow. His path led him to a formative mentorship with the legendary Sam Paul Gee at Gee's celebrated North Beach shop - a destination where the stars of San Francisco society came to find the extraordinary. It was there that Alan's reputation began to take on a life of its own. His client list from those years reads like a roll call of American cultural royalty: Elton John, Miles Davis, Fleetwood Mac, Herbie Hancock, Bootsy Collins, Kris Kristofferson, Rita Coolidge, Michael Keaton, Bob Weir, Liberace, Redd Foxx, Flip Wilson - music legends, screen icons, and tastemakers who recognized something rare when they saw it.
He later opened his own successful jewelry gallery in Sausalito, and his award-winning work has been recognized at some of the most prestigious arts festivals in California - including the San Francisco Arts Festival, the Marin County Fair, the California State Fair, and the Berkeley Arts Festival, among many others. His pieces have been carried by celebrated galleries from New York's Aaron Faber to Angel Int. in Beverly Hills to the Union Street Goldsmith in San Francisco.
The Artist Today
Alan now lives and works in West Marin - in a studio that, by all accounts, is a world unto itself, bubbling with oddities, works in progress, and the kind of creative energy that simply cannot be manufactured. He shares his home with Zoey, his African grey parrot, and continues to create new work with the same restless curiosity and exacting standards that have defined his career for over half a century.
For collectors, gift-givers, or anyone searching for a piece of jewelry that carries a genuine story - Alan Giovannetti's work is as close to irreplaceable as it gets.
To inquire about available pieces or commission work, contact Alan directly through BestOfMarin.com.
Pro tip: Ask about rare one-of-a-kind originals currently available - Alan often has singular pieces in the studio that are never reproduced.
#Jewelry#Handcrafted#Luxury#Marin
Local Favorite
Pro tip: If you're heading to Stinson Beach on a weekend, Breakers fills up fast - especially the patio on sunny afternoons. Arrive early or plan to wait, and it's absolutely worth it.

Food & Drink
4.8
Breakers Cafe
Breakers Cafe - Stinson Beach's Lively Beachside Restaurant & Full Bar
You've just spent the afternoon hiking the trails of Mount Tamalpais, or catching waves at one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Northern California, and now you're hungry, sun-kissed, and ready for a cold drink. There's really only one place you need to know about: Breakers Cafe, Stinson Beach's beloved family-owned restaurant and bar, right on Highway 1 just minutes from the sand.
The Heart of Stinson Beach Dining
Lively, family-owned and operated, Breakers brings together American food with a Latin twist, a full bar, a dog-friendly patio, and a location just minutes from the beach - making it the natural gathering spot for surfers, hikers, day-trippers, and Stinson Beach locals alike. It's the kind of place where everyone ends up eventually, and where the laid-back energy of West Marin feels most at home.
The Menu - American Comfort with a Latin Kick
Breakers serves an eclectic mix of lunch and dinner fare with Latin highlights - including fish and chips, tacos, barbecue ribs, and what many consider one of the best burgers in Marin. Standouts from the kitchen include the Dungeness crab melt, fresh poke salad, Nashville chicken sandwich, seared tuna sandwich, and a rotating selection of fresh seafood that reflects the coastal setting beautifully. Fresh Tomales Bay oysters make a frequent appearance on the menu as well - the ideal companion to a cold beer or a cocktail from the full bar after a long day outdoors. The portions are generous, the garlic fries are legendary among regulars, and there are solid vegan and vegetarian options woven throughout.
The Patio - Where Stinson Beach Comes to Unwind
The outdoor patio at Breakers is really the main event. Spacious, dog-friendly, and strung with lights, it's the perfect place to settle in after a beach day with a drink in hand while the Stinson Beach evening winds down around you. It's heated for those cooler coastal nights, and the casual, order-at-the-counter format means everything moves at a relaxed West Marin pace. Food comes packaged for easy transport, making it just as convenient to grab your order and walk it down to the beach as it is to linger at a patio table.
A True West Marin Gathering Place
What makes Breakers more than just a convenient post-beach stop is the spirit behind it. This is a spot that is woven into the daily life of the Stinson Beach community - a place where locals and visitors share tables, where dogs are as welcome as their owners, and where the full bar ensures nobody goes thirsty after a long day on the coast. Whether you're fueling up before a hike to Alamere Falls, celebrating a birthday with the whole crew, or simply watching the afternoon light fade over the hills of West Marin with a cold drink in hand, Breakers delivers exactly what you need.
3465 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach, CA 94970
(415) 868-2002
stinsonbeachbreakerscafe.com
Open Monday, Thursday-Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
Dine-in, outdoor patio, takeout, catering, and full bar available. Dog-friendly patio.
Pro tip: If you're heading to Stinson Beach on a weekend, Breakers fills up fast - especially the patio on sunny afternoons. Arrive early or plan to wait, and it's absolutely worth it.
#Stinson Beach#Coastal#Casual#CA-1
Pro tip: Get there early for the best selection - the freshest bagels go fast, and for good reason. The everything bagel, extra toasted with lox and capers, is the move.

Food & Drink
4.3
Bridgeway Bagel
Bridgeway Bagel - Sausalito's Homemade Bagel Institution, Fresh Since Before You Woke Up
Some mornings call for something simple, honest, and genuinely delicious. In Sausalito, that means one thing: Bridgeway Bagel. Tucked along the iconic Bridgeway corridor in the Marinship neighborhood, Bridgeway Bagel has been in business for over 28 years, specializing in fresh homemade bagels with a beautiful outdoor seating area and prices that will not make you wince. In a town full of waterfront bistros and upscale dining, this humble bagel shop has quietly earned its place as one of Sausalito's most beloved everyday destinations.
The Bagels - Made the Right Way
Here is the thing that separates Bridgeway Bagel from the competition: the bagels are boiled and baked fresh daily - the traditional method that produces that distinct chew and golden crust that no shortcut can replicate. They make their own bagels right there in the shop every single day, which is exactly why regulars who have been coming in for years still light up when they talk about them. Bridgeway Bagel has been called by more than one devoted customer the best and most authentic bagels in the Bay Area, if not all of California - high praise, and by all accounts, completely earned.
The Menu - Simple, Satisfying, and Stacked
The bagel selection runs deep - plain, egg, onion, poppy, sesame, everything, garlic, salt, pumpernickel, whole wheat, nine grain, sun-dried tomato-basil, kalamata olive, green chile chipotle, oat and honey-date, cinnamon raisin, blueberry, and cranberry sourdough - meaning whether you are a purist or an adventurous eater, there is something calling your name. The cream cheese spreads are all made in-house and include classics like chive and dill, sun-dried tomato, garlic herb, and lox and capers. For heartier appetites, the breakfast sandwiches are the stuff of local legend - eggs cooked fresh to order, loaded onto your bagel of choice alongside ham, sausage, bacon, or lox, with options to suit every preference. The lox bagel sandwich consistently ranks as the top-ordered item, and it is easy to see why.
Beyond breakfast, Bridgeway Bagel serves up sandwiches for the lunch crowd alongside smoothies, coffee, and lattes - making it just as much a midday destination as an early morning one. The turbo tuna melt and mesquite chicken sandwich have their own loyal followings among the lunch regulars.
The Vibe - Early, Casual, and Completely Sausalito
Doors open at 6:00 AM, making Bridgeway Bagel the ideal first stop before a morning bike ride across the Golden Gate, a kayak launch on the bay, or a hike up into the Marin Headlands. The atmosphere is friendly and low-key, with a classic neighborhood feel that makes it a natural gathering spot for locals starting their day - and for visitors who are smart enough to skip the tourist traps and eat where the locals eat. Grab a table outside when the weather cooperates and watch Sausalito wake up around you. There are few better ways to begin a day in Marin County.
A Sausalito Original Worth Seeking Out
Located in the Marinship neighborhood near the Highway 101 Sausalito exit, Bridgeway Bagel is easy to find and even easier to love. It has none of the pretension that can sometimes creep into Marin dining - just fresh-baked bagels, friendly faces, fair prices, and a consistency that has kept the same customers coming back for nearly three decades.
3001 Bridgeway, Suite E, Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 332-6445
Open Monday-Saturday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout, and delivery available.
Pro tip: Get there early for the best selection - the freshest bagels go fast, and for good reason. The everything bagel, extra toasted with lox and capers, is the move.
#Bagels#Breakfast#Sausalito#Coffee
Pro tip: Ask what was caught that morning and pair it with a local wine - if weather allows, take an outside table and stay through sunset.

Food & Drink
4.3
The Coast Cafe

Coast Cafe offers fresh, locally inspired dishes in a laid-back Bolinas setting—simple, seasonal, and consistently good.
The Coast Cafe is a staple of Bolinas—serving fresh, seasonal dishes in a relaxed, coastal setting. Known for its thoughtful menu and local ingredients, it's the kind of place where great food and a laid-back atmosphere come together effortlessly.
Founded on October 18, 1998, with a vision to create a restaurant in harmony with the community and the belief that wonderful food does not have to come in a formal package and can be priced for everyone, the Coast Cafe has spent over two decades living up to exactly that promise. It is, in the truest sense of the phrase, a restaurant with a philosophy.
Farm to Table Before It Was Fashionable
The Coast Cafe serves Northern California cuisine using only the freshest ingredients, supporting sustainable farming methods, locally grown organic produce, locally harvested fish and shellfish, local organic dairy, and Bill Niman meats, using only natural oils. Soups and salads are built around vegetables from nearby Star Route Farms, and the fish on your plate may well have been pulled from the water just hours before you sat down. The fish of the day is frequently caught by a local fisherman the same morning it is served - a level of freshness that simply cannot be manufactured or imitated.
The Menu - Honest, Seasonal, and Deeply Satisfying
Pro tip: Ask what was caught that morning and pair it with a local wine - if weather allows, take an outside table and stay through sunset.
#Cafe#West Marin#Bolinas#Coastal
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Book as early as possible - especially for spring and summer weekends. There is no cell service at the lodge, so once you arrive, you are truly off the grid. Pack accordingly, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to be reminded why Point Reyes is one of the most magnificent places in California.

Hotels & Lodging
4.5
The Limantour Lodge
Limantour Lodge - The Only Accommodation Inside Point Reyes National Seashore
There is no other lodging experience quite like this one in all of Marin County - and that is not marketing language, it is a geographical fact. Limantour Lodge is the only accommodation inside the boundaries of Point Reyes National Seashore, sitting steps away from hiking trails, wild beaches, and some of the most breathtaking coastal wilderness in the entire state of California. For nature lovers, hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to wake up already inside one of America's greatest national parks, this is the place.
A New Chapter for a Beloved Property
Formerly known as the Point Reyes Hostel, operated by Hosteling International, the property was taken over in 2023 and renamed Limantour Lodge - a nod to the beautiful beach and estero just down the road. New ownership brought with it fresh energy, updated amenities, and an elevated approach to the communal lodging experience - everything from furniture and bedding to towels, paint, and kitchen supplies was refreshed, all while preserving the spirit of adventure and community that has made this property a beloved destination for decades.
The Lodge - An Elevated Hostel Experience in a Spectacular Setting
Limantour Lodge offers an elevated hostel experience in a rustic lodge with many communal spaces to hang out, meet new friends, and plan the next day's adventure in Point Reyes National Seashore. Accommodations range from a large bunkhouse sleeping up to 22 people to private rooms with either a single queen bed or a double plus bunk beds. All guests share bathroom facilities and have access to generous communal spaces - a fully equipped guest kitchen, cozy common areas with great views, and an outdoor patio and barbecue area that make it easy to settle in and feel at home after a long day on the trails. Free WiFi is available throughout all buildings, and guests also have free use of beach chairs, boogie boards, and games - thoughtful touches that reflect the genuine hospitality of the new management team.
For groups, the entire lodge can be booked out for maximum privacy, making it an exceptional choice for school trips, corporate retreats, family reunions, and youth groups.
The Location - Wilderness at Your Doorstep
Situated in a quiet, secluded valley just 15 minutes from Point Reyes Station, Limantour Lodge places guests at the center of one of the most ecologically rich landscapes on the West Coast. Surrounded by 140 miles of trails winding through uniquely diverse habitats, the lodge is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching - and guests regularly report spotting deer, foxes, hummingbirds, and an extraordinary variety of coastal birds right on the property grounds. Limantour Beach, the Point Reyes Lighthouse, Tomales Bay, and the Cypress Tree Tunnel are all within easy reach, and the absence of cell service on the property - you will need to drive up the road a short distance to get a signal - feels less like an inconvenience and more like a gift.
The Vibe - Community, Adventure, and Pure West Marin Magic
Guests consistently describe the property as feeling like a different world entirely - just 90 minutes north of San Francisco, yet completely removed from city life. The staff is warm and genuinely knowledgeable about the area, offering trail recommendations, local tips, and the kind of personal attention that makes a stay feel cared for rather than transactional. Families with young children find it just as welcoming as solo adventurers and hiking groups - the communal spirit of the place has a way of bringing very different kinds of travelers together around a shared love of the outdoors.
Limantour Lodge is ranked as a top specialty lodging destination in Point Reyes National Seashore - a reflection of what happens when a truly special location is matched with ownership that genuinely cares about the guest experience.
1390 Limantour Spit Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
(415) 663-8811
limantourlodge.com
Front desk available daily 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Free on-site parking; Rates from $167/night
Pro tip: Book as early as possible - especially for spring and summer weekends. There is no cell service at the lodge, so once you arrive, you are truly off the grid. Pack accordingly, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to be reminded why Point Reyes is one of the most magnificent places in California.
#Lodging#Point Reyes#Coastal#Retreat
Pro tip: Request a window or outdoor deck table when booking - the sunset over San Francisco Bay from this vantage point is one of the most spectacular dining views in the entire Bay Area. Book ahead for weekend evenings, as the best seats go fast.

Food & Drink
4.5
Barrel House Tavern

Barrel House Tavern - Sausalito's Most Spectacular Waterfront Restaurant with Views of the San Francisco Bay
There are restaurants with good views, and then there is Barrel House Tavern. Nestled in historic downtown Sausalito and overlooking the Bay with breathtaking views of San Francisco's cityscape, Treasure Island, and the Bay Bridge, Barrel House Tavern occupies one of the most enviable dining locations in all of the Bay Area - and it has the food, design, and hospitality to match. This is the kind of place where a casual weekday lunch can feel like a special occasion, and where special occasions become genuinely unforgettable.
A Building With a Story
Part of what makes Barrel House Tavern so compelling is the history beneath your feet. Landmarked as a historical building, this location was once home to the first ferry terminal to and from San Francisco before the Golden Gate Bridge was built. After the bridge changed everything and the building sat vacant for years, owner Chris Henry - who grew up in Sausalito and cares deeply about his town - purchased the building because of its special history and completely renovated it. True to his philosophy of sustainability, he used reclaimed wood throughout - including stunning Curly Maple and California Black Walnut - that give the interior a warmth and craftsmanship that no off-the-shelf design could replicate. The result is a 5,000-square-foot space featuring an enormous Carrara marble bar, a cozy lounge, a wood-fired pizza oven, and waterfront seating with breathtaking views of the Bay.
The Food - California Seasonal, Farm to Table, and Deeply Satisfying
Barrel House Tavern offers a unique farm-to-table experience that celebrates local seasonal ingredients and sustainability in a beautiful setting, focusing on letting the ingredients shine. The menu draws from responsible local farmers and growers, with Seafood Watch-recommended fish, a celebrated grass-fed burger, and a commitment to sourcing all beer and wine from California producers. Standouts include the baked oysters, golden seared jumbo sea scallops, chimichurri steak, lobster ravioli, and a rotating cast of seasonal specials that keep even the most regular regulars discovering something new. The cocktail program features barrel-aged and classic cocktails alongside rotating local microbrews on tap, wines on tap, and hand-crafted seasonal sodas.
Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday and features half-dozen local oysters, draft beers, well cocktails, and select wines - making it one of the best happy hour deals on the Sausalito waterfront.
The Views - The Best Seat in Marin County
The restaurant features an open floor plan offering gorgeous views of the Bay to every seat in the house, and the outdoor deck sits quite literally over the water - putting you face to face with one of the most iconic panoramas in California. The view across the bay to the entire San Francisco skyline is absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset, and guests return again and again specifically to experience it in different light and different seasons. On a clear day, the view alone is worth the trip across the bridge.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Barrel House Tavern is an inviting waterfront oasis and a lively destination fit for an intimate dinner for two or a celebratory venue for large groups - from date nights and birthday dinners to corporate events and rehearsal gatherings. The energy inside is lively and convivial without tipping into noisy or rushed, and the attentive staff consistently earns praise for making guests feel genuinely cared for. The food quality and location have earned guests who rarely return twice to the same restaurant on a trip making return visits - perhaps the most honest endorsement a restaurant can receive.
660 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 729-9593
barrelhousetavern.com
Open daily Monday-Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Happy Hour Monday-Friday 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Reservations recommended, especially for weekend evenings and outdoor deck seating.
Pro tip: Request a window or outdoor deck table when booking - the sunset over San Francisco Bay from this vantage point is one of the most spectacular dining views in the entire Bay Area. Book ahead for weekend evenings, as the best seats go fast.
#Sausalito#Tavern#Waterfront#Bridgeway
Local Favorite
Pro tip: Mix proteins and toppings, and don't skip the sauce.

Food & Drink
4.9
Lou's Takeaway
Lou's Takeaway - Healthy, Hearty Rice-Based Meals in San Rafael
If you're searching for healthy, hearty meals in San Rafael, Lou's Takeaway offers a simple but satisfying concept done right. Focused on rice-based bowls with rustic, flavorful ingredients, this local spot has become a go-to for people who want something filling, balanced, and easy.
In a region known for fresh ingredients and mindful eating, Lou's fits perfectly into the Marin lifestyle - clean, nourishing, and no unnecessary extras.
What to Expect at Lou's Takeaway
Lou's keeps things straightforward: build a meal around a solid base, then layer on quality ingredients. Typical offerings include rice-based bowls, grilled proteins, fresh seasonal vegetables, and simple sauces and toppings that add flavor without overpowering the dish.
The result is a meal that feels both comforting and energizing - practical enough for a quick lunch, satisfying enough for dinner.
Rustic Simplicity Meets Marin Quality
What makes Lou's stand out is its ability to keep things simple while still delivering strong flavor. There's no overcomplication - just good ingredients prepared well.
It's the kind of place where portions are satisfying, ingredients feel fresh and intentional, and meals are consistent and reliable. Perfect for anyone who wants something quick without sacrificing quality.
Atmosphere & Experience
Lou's Takeaway is built for convenience and comfort: casual, no-frills, and easygoing. Service is quick, ideal for takeout or a relaxed stop-in, and you'll usually find a steady flow of locals grabbing lunch or dinner.
Best Time to Visit
Lunch hours are typically busiest. Mid-afternoon is often quieter, and it's a great window if you want a fast pickup with less waiting.
Who Should Go
Lou's Takeaway is a strong fit for anyone looking for healthy takeout in San Rafael, busy locals who want a quick but filling meal, people who enjoy simple well-executed food, and visitors exploring casual food spots in Marin.
Why Lou's Takeaway Deserves a Spot on Best of Marin
Lou's stands out by delivering simple, hearty meals that align with Marin's focus on quality and balance. It's not trying to be trendy - it's focused on doing one thing well, and doing it consistently.
621A Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903
(415) 226-7994
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM and 4:45 PM-7:30 PM.
Pro tip: Mix proteins and toppings, and don't skip the sauce.
#Takeaway#Rice Bowls#San Rafael#Seasonal Specials
Pro tip: Burmatown fills up fast, especially on weekends and Friday evenings. Arrive right at opening for the best chance at a table without a long wait. Order the tea leaf salad no matter what - it is the dish that best captures why Burmatown is special - and share across as many dishes as possible. The family-style format is the whole point.

Food & Drink
4.7
Burmatown
Burmatown - Burmese and Asian Fusion in Corte Madera
Burmatown - Marin County's Michelin-recognized Burmese and Asian fusion gem in Corte Madera. There are restaurants that satisfy a craving, and then there are restaurants that introduce you to an entirely new culinary world you did not know you were missing. Burmatown, tucked into a bright orange bungalow on Tamalpais Drive in Corte Madera, is decidedly the latter. Listed in the Michelin Guide and ranked among top restaurants in Corte Madera, Burmatown has become one of the most exciting and beloved dining destinations in Marin County.
A Mom and Daughter Story
Burmatown was started by a mom and daughter duo with a mission to offer traditional Burmese dishes alongside inventive Asian fusion, while creating a place for the community to gather, eat, drink, and connect. That family origin is felt in every part of the experience, from warm service to the care in every plate.
The Food - Traditional Burmese Meets Inventive Asian Fusion
Burmatown offers a mix of Burmese cuisine and innovative Asian fusion, designed family-style with communal plates and bites prepared fresh daily. The menu rewards both adventurous diners and newcomers, with familiar touchpoints and plenty of depth and creativity.
The tea leaf salad - a Burmese classic - is a standout: nutty, crunchy, and intensely flavorful. Seasonal favorites also include spiced potato-stuffed samosas and fresh egg noodles tossed with barbecue pork and fried garlic chips. The bao, stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes are all crowd favorites, and the grill adds range with dishes like kalbi ribs and smoked salmon collars.
Start with potstickers, tea leaf salad, or nori-drizzled fries. For entrees, garlic noodles, yellow curry chicken, basil shrimp stir-fry, and Moh Hinga catfish soup are consistent standouts. For dessert, mango pudding with whipped cream and strawberries and Burmese coconut cake close the meal on a high note.
The Michelin Recognition - Earned Through Consistency
Burmatown's Michelin recognition reflects what Corte Madera locals have known for years: this unassuming bungalow serves food of real distinction. It is also highly rated by diners across review platforms, with consistent praise for both quality and hospitality.
The Space - Casual, Warm, and Built for Community
A long bar serves wine and beer, and front windows open to a large patio, making Burmatown just as enjoyable on a sunny afternoon as on a cool evening with curry and a glass of wine. The atmosphere is warm, unpretentious, and communal - perfect for sharing across the menu.
18 Tamalpais Dr, Corte Madera, CA 94925
(415) 985-5060
burmatown.com
Open Tuesday-Friday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM (lunch) and 4:30 PM-8:30 PM (dinner). Saturday 4:00 PM-8:30 PM. Closed Sunday and Monday.
Pro tip: Burmatown fills up fast, especially on weekends and Friday evenings. Arrive right at opening for the best chance at a table without a long wait. Order the tea leaf salad no matter what - it is the dish that best captures why Burmatown is special - and share across as many dishes as possible. The family-style format is the whole point.
#Burmese#Asian Fusion#Corte Madera#Family Style
Pro tip: Book a nursery visit first - it is the easiest way to match your puppy's age and temperament to the right training program.

Services
4.9
Hillary's Hound House
Hillary's Hound House - Professional Puppy Training School in San Rafael
Hillary's Hound House is a Marin puppy training and enrichment program focused on early behavior foundations, socialization, and confidence-building for young dogs. With structured day programs and a positive-reinforcement approach, it is a trusted local option for puppy families across central Marin.
781 Andersen Dr, San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 453-4515
hillaryshoundhouse.com
Hours: Monday 8:30 AM-3:00 PM; Tuesday 8:30 AM-3:00 PM; Wednesday 8:30 AM-3:00 PM; Thursday 8:30 AM-3:00 PM; Friday closed; Saturday closed; Sunday closed.
Pro tip: Book a nursery visit first - it is the easiest way to match your puppy's age and temperament to the right training program.
#Puppy Training#San Rafael#Dog Training#Pet Care
Pro tip: For airport or event runs, request your ride time with buffer for bridge traffic and reserve early for weekend evenings.

Services
5
Executive Transportation of Marin
Executive Transportation of Marin - Chauffeur and Luxury Car Service in Mill Valley
Executive Transportation of Marin provides private chauffeur, airport transfer, and special-occasion transportation throughout Marin and the Bay Area. The service emphasizes punctuality, comfort, and professional drivers for business travel, event nights, and seamless point-to-point rides.
43 Miwok Way, Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 696-6577
executivemarin.com
Pro tip: For airport or event runs, request your ride time with buffer for bridge traffic and reserve early for weekend evenings.
#Luxury Transport#Chauffeur#Mill Valley#Airport Transfer
Pro tip: New to Metta? Start with the intro offer and sample multiple teachers and class styles across locations before choosing a membership. Pre-register in the app and arrive ten minutes early for your first class.

Health & Wellness
4.6
Metta Yoga
Metta Yoga — Marin County's Most Dynamic Boutique Yoga Studio Community, With Three Locations Across the County
Metta Yoga blends physically invigorating classes with grounded, community-centered practice across Corte Madera, San Rafael, and Sausalito.
The word metta is a Pali term meaning loving kindness - the practice of cultivating unconditional goodwill toward yourself and all living beings. It is a fitting name for what founder Amy set out to create in Marin County in 2017: not just a yoga studio, but a genuine community built around the belief that yoga should be physically invigorating, spiritually grounding, and joyful all at once. That vision has grown into one of the Bay Area's most loved wellness communities.
Metta Yoga was created to bring a boutique, community-focused yoga studio to Marin County that is edgy and fun, yet still deeply rooted in yogic tradition - with locations in Corte Madera, San Rafael, and Cloudbreak in Sausalito. Three studios, one cohesive community, and a shared mission reflected in every class and teacher.
Founded from the Heart - A Marin Mother's Leap of Faith
In 2017, Amy took a leap of faith and opened Metta Yoga in Corte Madera to bring the type of yoga she wanted in her own neighborhood: spiritually and physically invigorating classes in a close-knit boutique environment. Her background as a dancer, athlete, professional, and mother of three shaped a style that is dynamic, graceful, challenging, and deeply practical for modern life.
The Classes - Physically Vigorous, Spiritually Grounded, and Genuinely Diverse
Metta's teaching team curates vigorous asana flows paired with spirituality and mental grounding. The schedule spans fiery vinyasa, heated classes, restorative offerings, sound healing, breathwork, aerial yoga, fitness fusion, and pre/postnatal programming through Metta Mama. Pop-up classes, live music flows, workshops, and guest teachers keep the schedule fresh for all levels.
With three Marin locations, students can explore different teachers, room energies, and class styles depending on what they need on a given day - whether that is challenge, recovery, strength, or calm.
World-Class Teachers Rooted in the Marin Community
Metta's instructors include E-RYT 500 teachers and practitioners trained across diverse traditions and geographies, including Mysore, Tokyo, Washington D.C., and the Bay Area. Their backgrounds span Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Iyengar, dance, pranayama, and myofascial work, giving students meaningful variety while maintaining a cohesive community feel.
Beyond the Studio - Retreats, Teacher Training & More
Metta extends beyond daily classes with international retreats, teacher trainings (200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour), and specialty intensives in breathwork, sound healing, kids yoga, and creative sequencing. The Metta Mama program supports prenatal and postpartum students with focused classes, workshops, and community.
Corte Madera - 8 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925
San Rafael - 835 4th Street, Suite B, San Rafael, CA 94901
Cloudbreak (Sausalito) - Sausalito, CA
(415) 868-3569
mettayogastudio.com
Download the Metta Yoga app for class registration
Pro tip: New to Metta? Start with the intro offer and sample multiple teachers and class styles across locations before choosing a membership. Pre-register in the app and arrive ten minutes early for your first class.
#Yoga#Corte Madera#Fitness#Wellness
Pro tip: Reservations are strongly recommended - this is a small restaurant and it fills up fast, especially on weekend evenings. Sit at the sushi counter if possible, order the omakase, and ask Chef Yoshi what just came in. The answer will likely be the best thing you eat all week.

Food & Drink
4.5
Keiko Fish
Keiko Fish — Larkspur's Extraordinary Sushi Bar Where the Best Chef in Marin Shows Up Every Single Day
Keiko Fish pairs elite sushi technique with neighborhood warmth: top-tier fish, meticulous nigiri, and a chef-owner behind the counter every day in downtown Larkspur.
There are sushi restaurants, and then there are places where the fish is so fresh, the technique so precise, and the person behind the counter so genuinely dedicated to their craft that eating there feels like a privilege. Keiko Fish on Magnolia Avenue in Larkspur is firmly in the second category. Since opening in 2021, it has quickly become a community favorite through old-fashioned word of mouth from diners who cannot stop recommending it.
The Chef - Twenty Years of Excellence, Now Yours in Larkspur
The story of Keiko Fish begins and ends with Chef Yoshi Abe. With more than twenty years of experience at acclaimed sushi institutions including Sushi Sasabune in Los Angeles and Morimoto Napa, Chef Yoshi brings high-level discipline, precision, and fish-selection standards to Larkspur. He is also the owner and is present every day, personally preparing nigiri and maintaining consistency plate by plate. That direct daily involvement is a major reason the quality stays so high.
The Omakase - Trust the Chef, and the Chef Will Reward You
One of the best moves at Keiko Fish is omakase: the chef's multi-course progression built around what came in freshest that day. It can include premium cuts and rotating seasonal highlights, and it is the clearest way to experience Chef Yoshi's approach to balance, texture, and timing. Even when ordering from the regular menu, checking the chalkboard specials is essential - that is where many of the best pieces appear first.
The Menu - From Classics to Stunning Originals
Beyond omakase, the menu spans comfort classics and standout originals, from familiar rolls to premium nigiri and crudo preparations. Favorites frequently highlighted by regulars include yellowtail jalapeno crudo, crispy rice spicy tuna, black cod nigiri, toro, uni, and rotating specialty bites. Service is quick and attentive, and the room itself is bright and thoughtfully designed, with soft lighting and music that keeps the energy calm and focused on the food.
Sit at the Sushi Counter - It's Where the Magic Happens
Keiko Fish is intimate, with limited table seating, so the sushi counter is often the best seat in the house. Watching Chef Yoshi work - the economy of movement, quiet focus, and exacting knife work - becomes part of the meal. Chatting is optional, but if you ask what just came in, you will usually be steered toward the strongest bites of the day.
Keiko Fish holds a strong local rating profile and is consistently ranked among top Larkspur restaurants, reflecting what Marin sushi lovers already know.
250 Magnolia Avenue, Suite B, Larkspur, CA 94939
(415) 891-8395
keikofish.net
@keikofishlarkspur on Instagram
Open Tuesday-Thursday 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM · Friday 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM - 9:30 PM · Saturday 4:30 PM - 9:30 PM · Sunday 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM · Closed Monday · Dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout & delivery available
Pro tip: Reservations are strongly recommended - this is a small restaurant and it fills up fast, especially on weekend evenings. Sit at the sushi counter if possible, order the omakase, and ask Chef Yoshi what just came in. The answer will likely be the best thing you eat all week.
#Japanese#Larkspur#Magnolia Ave#Vegan Options
Pro tip: Reservations are smart for Friday and Saturday evenings, and it is worth checking the wine and dessert menus online before you go.

Food & Drink
4.5
Chianti Cucina
Chianti Cucina - Family-Friendly Italian Dining in Novato
Chianti Cucina is a longtime Novato favorite for classic Italian dishes, warm hospitality, and a cozy, neighborhood atmosphere. The menu mixes traditional Italian staples with house specialties, making it a reliable choice for weeknight dinners, date nights, and family celebrations.
7416 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA 94945
(415) 878-0314
chiantinovato.com
Hours: Monday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM; Tuesday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM; Wednesday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM; Thursday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM; Friday 5:00 PM-8:30 PM; Saturday 5:00 PM-8:30 PM; Sunday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Pro tip: Reservations are smart for Friday and Saturday evenings, and it is worth checking the wine and dessert menus online before you go.
#Italian#Novato#Dinner#Family Friendly
Pro tip: Bring waterproof shoes in winter and arrive earlier in the day for the quietest grove experience and best filtered redwood light for photos.

Parks & Nature
4.6
Roys Redwoods Preserve
Roys Redwoods Preserve - Restored Old-Growth Grove in Woodacre
Roys Redwoods Preserve is a peaceful West Marin open-space destination centered around a majestic old-growth redwood grove and gentle trails. Following a major restoration project, it has become one of the most special short-walk nature experiences in the San Geronimo Valley area.
Woodacre, CA 94973
Pro tip: Bring waterproof shoes in winter and arrive earlier in the day for the quietest grove experience and best filtered redwood light for photos.
#Redwoods#Woodacre#San Geronimo Valley#Trails
Pro tip: Check the music calendar before you go - some of the best shows at the Rancho sell out, and arriving early on a summer Saturday for BBQ on the Lawn with a great band under the open Nicasio sky is one of those Marin experiences that stays with you for years.

Food & Drink
4.5
Rancho Nicasio
Rancho Nicasio — The Heart of West Marin: Historic Roadhouse, Live Music & California BBQ Since 1941
Rancho Nicasio blends old-school West Marin roadhouse energy with strong BBQ, live music, and sweeping Nicasio Valley views that turn a meal into an all-day experience.
To find Rancho Nicasio, you have to want to find it. Situated in the geographical center of Marin County - twenty minutes from any highway, surrounded by the rolling golden hills of the Nicasio Valley - this historic roadhouse, established in 1941, sits on the town square of one of the most beautifully preserved small towns in all of California. Getting there is part of the experience, and arriving feels like being let in on a secret that West Marin locals have been quietly enjoying for generations.
A little bit of Austin from its 1970s pre-development golden age plopped down in West Marin - scenery, music, attitude, and all - captures the Rancho perfectly. This is not a fancy destination restaurant. It is something rarer and more valuable: a genuinely alive roadhouse where the food is good, the beer is cold, the live music is real, and the crowd is exactly the eclectic, warm, slightly unpredictable mix that makes West Marin so unlike anywhere else.
The Food - California Comfort with a BBQ Soul
Rustic ambiance serving up California favorites - oysters, BBQ ribs, sandwiches and burgers, rib-eye steaks, and prime rib on weekends. BBQ staples include brisket, pulled pork, chicken fried steak, and all the fixings - exactly the kind of food that makes sense in a place like this, eaten at a picnic table under open sky with the hills of Nicasio Valley rolling out in every direction. The menu balances that BBQ identity with farm-fresh California touches, from produce-forward sides to solid grilled fish and chicken options. Weekend brunch is its own event, pairing the valley's morning beauty with a menu that makes staying until the music starts feel completely inevitable.
The Music - Some of the Best Live Shows in Marin County
This is where Rancho Nicasio becomes legendary. A rare venue with both indoor and outdoor concerts, the Rancho hosts an exceptional calendar of live music that draws nationally recognized artists, beloved Bay Area bands, and everything from Grateful Dead tribute acts to zydeco, blues, jazz, and Americana. Big Brother & The Holding Company, Ruthie Foster, and many other world-class acts have played here - in an intimate setting that puts you close enough to feel every note. Great live music, a cold drink, and golden-hour views over Nicasio Valley combine into one of the finest West Marin experiences.
Five Acres of Event Space - Weddings, Picnics & Private Events
The Rancho's five-acre site and manicured lawn, framed by rolling valley hills, make it a standout setting for weddings, company picnics, private parties, and corporate events. It is the kind of venue that purpose-built event spaces cannot replicate, because they do not come with eight decades of history, a working roadhouse, and scenery like this.
1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio, CA 94946
(415) 662-2219
ranchonicasio.com
Open Monday-Friday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM · Saturday-Sunday 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM · Check website for live music calendar
Pro tip: Check the music calendar before you go - some of the best shows at the Rancho sell out, and arriving early on a summer Saturday for BBQ on the Lawn with a great band under the open Nicasio sky is one of those Marin experiences that stays with you for years.
#American#Nicasio#West Marin#Live Music
Pro tip: Buy tickets early for opening weekends and New Works runs, and arrive a little early to enjoy the Marin Art and Garden Center grounds before curtain.

Arts & Culture
4.5
Ross Valley Players
Ross Valley Players — The Oldest Continually Operating Community Theatre West of the Mississippi, Right Here in Marin County
Ross Valley Players is a nearly century-old Marin institution where local history, intimate staging, and high-quality community theatre come together in one of the county's most iconic performance spaces.
Some cultural institutions are woven so deeply into the fabric of a community that imagining the place without them feels genuinely impossible. Ross Valley Players is one of those institutions. Founded in 1930 by Beth Lloyd and a small group of women as a way to escape the hardships of the Depression, Ross Valley Players has been bringing live theatre to Marin County for nearly a century — through world wars, cultural revolutions, economic downturns, and a global pandemic — never once going dark for good. It is the oldest continually operating community theatre west of the Mississippi — a distinction that is not just a historical footnote but a living testament to what theatre means to this community.
The Barn - A Historic Stage Like No Other
After first performing in various indoor and outdoor venues including the Mount Tamalpais Amphitheater, the Kittle estate offered the group a large red barn in 1939 — and that barn, nestled on the grounds of the Marin Art and Garden Center on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, has been the home of Ross Valley Players ever since. For local theatre in an old converted barn on the edge of the Art and Garden Center, Ross Valley Players delivers performances that are great by any standard — and the intimate, historic space makes every production feel like a genuine shared event rather than a passive entertainment experience.
The Barn Theater oozes rustic appeal and fits right into the Marin vibe — walk in and you'll feel the history. This is one of the area's oldest cultural hangouts, entertaining folks for generations. The proximity of the stage to the audience creates a connection between performer and viewer that larger, more formal venues simply cannot replicate — you're not watching the play from a distance, you're inside it.
A Full Season of Diverse, High-Quality Live Theatre
Ross Valley Players offers a main stage season with four plays and one RVP New Works production — an original play by a local playwright — for a total of 34 weeks of live theatre annually. The range of programming is genuinely impressive for a community theatre, spanning classic drama, beloved musicals, sharp comedies, contemporary works, and world premieres that bring new voices and new stories to the Marin stage.
Pro tip: Buy tickets early for opening weekends and New Works runs, and arrive a little early to enjoy the Marin Art and Garden Center grounds before curtain.
#Theater#Performing Arts#Greenbrae#Nonprofit
Pro tip: Half Day Cafe is a beloved weekend destination — arrive by 10:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to beat the wait, especially if you want outdoor seating. Order the California Benedict and a Dough God on the side, ask for your coffee refill early, and settle in. There is genuinely no better way to start a Marin weekend.

Food & Drink
4.7
Half Day Cafe
Half Day Cafe — Kentfield's Beloved Scratch-Made Breakfast & Brunch Destination
Half Day Cafe delivers exactly what locals want from a Marin morning: scratch-made comfort food, strong coffee, fast friendly service, and a bright Kentfield dining room that feels welcoming every day of the week.
There is a particular kind of morning that only a truly great neighborhood cafe can deliver — the kind where the coffee is hot, the food is made with real care, the light through the windows feels exactly right, and you leave feeling like the day ahead is genuinely going to be good. Half Day Cafe on College Avenue in Kentfield has been delivering that kind of morning to Marin County residents for years, and it has earned every bit of its devoted local following.
Ranked at the top of local Kentfield breakfast picks and holding a strong stream of positive reviews, Half Day Cafe is not just one of the best breakfast spots in Kentfield — it is one of the most consistently loved morning dining experiences in central Marin.
Everything Made from Scratch — Every Single Day
The philosophy at Half Day Cafe is straightforward and uncompromising: everything is scratch made, with a commitment to providing healthy and delicious items that can fit almost anyone's dietary needs. In an era when "house-made" can be a marketing term, Half Day Cafe takes the concept seriously — every sauce, every batter, every component prepared fresh in their kitchen and served with the kind of care that only comes from genuinely meaning it.
The cafe offers a broad menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options woven naturally throughout. The tofu scramble, avocado toast, and other plant-forward choices sit comfortably alongside heartier egg dishes, sandwiches, and comfort-food classics, making Half Day Cafe one of the more genuinely inclusive breakfast menus in the county.
The Menu - California Comfort Food at Its Finest
The California Benedict is the dish that has stopped first-timers cold and kept regulars ordering the same thing for years — a beautifully executed take on Eggs Benedict that reflects the kitchen's California sensibility and commitment to quality ingredients. The grits with scallions, sausage, and eggs is a deeply satisfying, filling plate for anyone wanting something substantial. The Dough Gods — the cafe's beloved house-made pastries — pair perfectly with a latte and have their own dedicated fan base.
The breakfast panini with eggs, spinach, ham, and cheese served with hash browns is another standout with balanced, satisfying flavors, and the French toast is the kind that earns repeat orders. Beyond breakfast, the lunch menu delivers strong sandwiches, salads, and comfort-food favorites that make Half Day Cafe a worthy destination into the afternoon as well.
The Space - Skylights, Plants & a Building With History
The bright, bustling room features skylights and plants, creating an airy interior that feels welcoming at 7 AM just as much as it does at noon. The building itself has local history too, having once housed a garage, an antique store, and a real estate office before becoming the cafe locals know today.
Outdoor seating is available for anyone who wants to soak up the Marin morning sunshine, and the patio is especially good on clear Kentfield weekends. The staff is attentive, coffee refills come quickly, service moves at a steady pace without feeling rushed, and portions are generous — the exact combination that turns first-time diners into regulars.
Right Across from the College of Marin
Half Day Cafe sits on College Avenue directly across from the College of Marin, making it a natural breakfast and lunch destination for students, faculty, and nearby neighborhoods. The parking lot behind the restaurant and the easy approach from Sir Francis Drake Boulevard make it one of the more convenient morning stops in central Marin.
848 College Avenue, Kentfield, CA 94904
(415) 459-0291
halfdaycafe.net
Open Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 2:30 PM · Saturday-Sunday 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM · Dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout & delivery available
Pro tip: Half Day Cafe is a beloved weekend destination — arrive by 10:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to beat the wait, especially if you want outdoor seating. Order the California Benedict and a Dough God on the side, ask for your coffee refill early, and settle in. There is genuinely no better way to start a Marin weekend.
#Breakfast#Brunch#Kentfield#Cafe
Pro tip: The Ahi Poke Crispy Tacos and the California Burger with a fried egg are the two dishes that best capture what makes Gott's different from every other burger spot in Marin — order both if you're with someone willing to split. And don't skip the hand-spun organic shake — the seasonal flavors are worth checking the menu for before you order.

Food & Drink
4.2
Gott's Roadside
Gott's Roadside — Marin County's Home of James Beard Award-Winning California Roadside Classics in Greenbrae
Gott's in Greenbrae turns roadside classics into something special: James Beard pedigree, standout burgers and Ahi tacos, and a casual Bon Air setting that works for quick lunches or family dinners.
There is a particular kind of satisfaction that comes from a truly great burger — one made with real ingredients, cooked with care, and served without any pretension. Gott's Roadside at Bon Air Center in Greenbrae delivers that satisfaction consistently, reliably, and with a distinctly California spirit that has made it one of the most beloved casual dining destinations in Marin County.
Originating as a roadside diner on Highway 29 in the heart of Napa Valley, Gott's is a James Beard award-winning restaurant known for its modern take on American roadside classics — serving crave-worthy dishes paired with wine country hospitality in a casual picnic setting. That combination of Napa pedigree and no-fuss accessibility is exactly what makes Gott's Roadside such a winning formula — and why the Greenbrae location has built such a loyal Marin following since opening its doors.
Founded in Napa Valley Wine Country, Perfected for Marin
Gott's Roadside was founded in 1999 in Saint Helena by brothers Joel and Duncan Gott. The concept was simple and brilliant from the start: take the beloved American roadside tradition of burgers, shakes, and fries, elevate it with genuinely exceptional ingredients and California culinary sensibility, and serve it in a setting casual enough that nobody feels out of place. Two and a half decades later, that formula has earned a James Beard Award and a loyal following stretching from Napa to San Francisco to Marin County.
The Food - Far More Than Just a Burger Joint
Gott's Roadside is a different kind of burger joint — and the menu makes that abundantly clear from the first read-through. Yes, the burgers are exceptional. The California Burger with a fried egg, Zoe's bacon, and balsamic onions is the signature that keeps regulars cycling back, while the Green Chile Cheeseburger has its own devoted following. But the menu extends far beyond beef — crispy Ahi Poke tacos made with sushi-grade Ahi tuna, a Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich with turmeric and harissa mayo, fresh salads including a Chicken Kale Caesar, and a sushi-grade Ahi burger round out a menu that rewards adventurous eaters as generously as it satisfies the burger purist.
The incredible beer-battered onion rings and hand-spun organic shakes are the supporting cast that elevates every meal — and the sweet potato fries have earned a loyal following all their own. Every item is made to order, every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced. Local purveyors include Niman Ranch beef, Zoe's bacon, Panorama Bakery breads, and Osprey Seafood — a supply chain that reflects genuine values rather than marketing language.
The Drinks - California Wine Country Meets Craft Beer
Gott's local sourcing extends to the glass with a California-centric list of wines and beers hand-selected by Joel Gott, featuring regional favorites from Napa to San Diego. That means you can order the California Burger with a glass of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, or pair your spicy street corn with a pint of Russian River Pliny on tap — an experience that is uniquely, unmistakably Californian and entirely unavailable at any other burger joint in Marin County.
The Setting - Spacious, Family-Friendly & Built for Marin Life
The indoor seating is spacious and never cramped, while the outdoor seating around a big fire pit provides a comfortable atmosphere for evening dining — and a small park space right outside makes it ideal for families with young kids. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an excellent choice for dining on sunny days or enjoying the cool evening breeze, and it's equally great for groups and solo diners alike. Ample parking at the Bon Air Center makes it one of the most accessible lunch and dinner destinations in central Marin.
Food is always consistent and service is speedy — a combination that makes Gott's equally satisfying whether you're grabbing a quick weekday lunch or settling in for a leisurely weekend meal with the whole family.
302 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA 94904
(415) 785-4233
gotts.com
Open Monday-Thursday 11:00 AM - 8:30 PM · Friday-Saturday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM · Dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout & delivery available
Pro tip: The Ahi Poke Crispy Tacos and the California Burger with a fried egg are the two dishes that best capture what makes Gott's different from every other burger spot in Marin — order both if you're with someone willing to split. And don't skip the hand-spun organic shake — the seasonal flavors are worth checking the menu for before you order.
#Burgers#American#Greenbrae#Lunch
Pro tip: Wednesday night before Thanksgiving at The Deuce is one of the great Mill Valley traditions — if you have any connection to Tam High or to the town itself, it's an unmissable evening. And whenever you visit, look for the toilet seat guitar behind the bar. It's been there longer than most of the surrounding buildings, and it's never not a conversation starter.

Food & Drink
4.6
The 2 AM Club
The 2AM Club — Mill Valley's Legendary "Deuce," Where Marin History Is Poured One Cold One at a Time
Locals have called it The Deuce for generations: a real Miller-and-Montford dive since 1939, Huey Lewis Sports cover fame, and the Wednesday-before-Thanksgiving Tam High tradition — history and cheap pours without the gimmicks.
There are bars in Marin County, and then there is The Deuce. The only true neighborhood watering hole — that is how the 2 AM Club describes itself, and after more than a century of pouring drinks on the corner of Miller and Montford in Mill Valley, the claim is unimpeachable. This is not a themed bar, a craft cocktail concept, or an Instagram opportunity. It's the real thing — a place with genuine history, genuine community, and genuinely affordable drinks — and it has been since before your grandparents were born.
A History That Survived Prohibition, Annexation, and a Hundred Years of Thirsty Marin Locals
The bar was originally opened by Bill Brown on the corner of Miller and Montford and was called The Brown Jug. Prohibition forced its closure in 1921, when the saloon became a grain and feed store. It was reopened in 1933 when Prohibition was repealed, and became the 2 AM Club in 1940.
The name itself tells the story. In 1939, saloons in the city of Mill Valley were required to close at 10 PM. As a result, many transferred their evening imbibing to The Brown Jug in Homestead Valley, which remained open until 2 AM. Customers began referring to it as the 2 AM Club — and the name stuck permanently. Being just outside city limits meant one thing to every thirsty Marin local: you could stay out longer, and The Deuce was where you went to do it.
Throughout the decades it has been a popular spot for watching sports and congregating with like-minded locals for a drink — and it has remained exactly that, through every ownership change and every shift in the cultural landscape around it, with a consistency and an authenticity that is genuinely hard to find.
The Huey Lewis Connection - An Album Cover That Made History
If the walls of The Deuce could talk, they'd have a lot of stories. But perhaps none more rock-and-roll than this: in 1983, the bar was the location for the cover photo of Huey Lewis and the News' landmark album Sports — and Lewis himself attended school in Mill Valley. That album went on to sell more than ten million copies and become one of the defining records of the decade. The Deuce got its fifteen minutes of global fame without changing a single thing about itself — which is, in many ways, the most Deuce thing that could possibly happen.
The Vibe - A Dive Bar With a Heart of Gold
A dive bar with a lot of history. A local bar with affordable prices where the neighborhood can come down for a drink, watch some sports, catch up with friends, listen to music, shoot some pool, and overall have a great time. That is how the current owners describe The Deuce — and they're not being falsely modest. All the bartenders know your name, your wife and kids' names and probably your pet's name too. A place where young and old and rich and poor can come together for drinks and entertainment.
Good pours, affordable prices, indoor and outdoor seating, pool tables, a jukebox, and TVs inside and outside for watching the game — The Deuce doesn't overcomplicate what a great neighborhood bar should be. There are two pool tables, a Golden Tee video game, and a sit-down Ms. Pac-Man — and hanging behind the bar, a toilet seat guitar created by local legend Charlie Deal that has been stopping first-timers cold and sparking conversations for decades.
The 2 AM Club is also well known as the see-and-be-seen meeting spot for Tamalpais High alumni the Wednesday before Thanksgiving — perhaps the most beloved annual tradition in Mill Valley bar culture, and proof that The Deuce isn't just a bar but a living piece of the town's social fabric.
New Owners, Same Soul
Ownership has passed to Dave Marshall and Amanda Solloway, who have upheld its legacy — preserving its charm while adding touches that kept it current. Under their stewardship, The Deuce has remained exactly what it has always been: welcoming, unpretentious, and completely, authentically Mill Valley.
380 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 388-6036
2amclubmillvalley@gmail.com
thedeuce.club
Open Monday–Thursday 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM · Friday–Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Pro tip: Wednesday night before Thanksgiving at The Deuce is one of the great Mill Valley traditions — if you have any connection to Tam High or to the town itself, it's an unmissable evening. And whenever you visit, look for the toilet seat guitar behind the bar. It's been there longer than most of the surrounding buildings, and it's never not a conversation starter.
#Bar#Dive Bar#Mill Valley#Miller Ave
Pro tip: If you're arriving by ferry from San Francisco, Ming's is one of the best-value meals in Tiburon — a short walk from the dock with portions generous enough to fuel the ride back. Order the dim sum platter to share, get the hot and sour soup, and don't skip the sesame balls for dessert. First-timers who ask for extra spice on the Hunan dishes are never disappointed.

Food & Drink
4.1
Ming's Chinese Cuisine
Ming's Chinese Cuisine — Tiburon's Beloved Hidden Gem for Authentic Chinese Food
In waterfront Tiburon, Ming's delivers classic Chinese with generous portions and fair prices — 25 years strong, dim sum to Hunan, and a kitchen with real technique.
In a town known for its waterfront dining and upscale restaurants overlooking the bay, Ming's has carved out a quietly special place on the Tiburon dining scene — not through flash or fanfare, but through the time-tested formula of genuinely good food, generous portions, reasonable prices, and warm, attentive service that makes every guest feel like a regular. A Chinese restaurant known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes and insistence on using high-quality fresh ingredients — there's a reason Ming's has been a local favorite for years.
A True Tiburon Local Favorite
Ming's has been here for 25 years and the food is good — and the community is so happy they're still here, given the high rents and tough margins of the Tiburon restaurant business. That longevity says everything about what Ming's means to the people who live here. In a neighborhood where restaurants come and go with remarkable frequency, 25-plus years in the same location is a testament to a kitchen that delivers, an ownership that cares, and a community that keeps coming back.
A Chef with Michelin Pedigree
What makes Ming's more than just a reliable neighborhood Chinese restaurant is the credentials behind the kitchen. The owner and chef previously worked at Yank Sing in San Francisco — a Michelin-ranked dim sum institution — bringing that level of skill and technique to Tiburon's most accessible Chinese dining option. That background shows in the precision of the dim sum, the balance of flavors across the menu, and the quality of execution on dishes that lesser kitchens treat as afterthoughts.
The Menu - Expansive, Fresh, and Built for Every Kind of Visit
Ming's has a huge menu with loads of scrumptious choices — spanning dim sum, chef's specials, soups, stir-fries, noodle dishes, and everything in between. The dim sum program is a standout, with pork and vegetable potstickers, BBQ pork buns that are fluffy and delicious, and deep-fried sesame balls with a crunchy exterior, chewy interior, and sweet red bean filling that have earned devoted fans across Marin County. The orange chicken, pepper beef, and chow mein are perennial crowd-pleasers with generous portions, while the mu-shu dishes, hot and sour soup, Hunan beef, and Kung Pao chicken keep the regulars cycling through the menu on repeat.
Ming's food rivals anything you can find in Chinatown — and at Tiburon prices that are genuinely reasonable, the value is exceptional. The kitchen packages the General Tso's Chicken with the sauce on the side to keep it crispy — a detail that speaks to the kitchen's genuine care about how the food arrives.
The staff are accommodating and flexible — the kitchen gladly modifies dishes to taste, adjusting spice levels or substituting ingredients — making Ming's a practical and pleasurable choice for families and groups with varied preferences.
Location, Convenience & the Ferry Connection
Ming's is easily walkable from the Tiburon ferry — next to the grocery store in the Boardwalk Shopping Center on Tiburon Boulevard — making it the perfect lunch or dinner destination for visitors arriving by boat from San Francisco, as well as a convenient everyday option for Tiburon residents. Outdoor seating, easy parking, takeout, and delivery all available.
Ming's holds a 4.5-star rating on DoorDash with over 2,000 reviews — one of the highest-volume review counts of any restaurant in the area — a reflection of a kitchen that consistently delivers and a community that orders again and again.
1550 Tiburon Blvd, Suite J, Belvedere Tiburon, CA 94920
(415) 435-4312
Open daily 11:00 AM – 8:10 PM · Dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout & delivery available
Pro tip: If you're arriving by ferry from San Francisco, Ming's is one of the best-value meals in Tiburon — a short walk from the dock with portions generous enough to fuel the ride back. Order the dim sum platter to share, get the hot and sour soup, and don't skip the sesame balls for dessert. First-timers who ask for extra spice on the Hunan dishes are never disappointed.
#Chinese#Tiburon#Belvedere#Dinner
Pro tip: If you are considering a remodel or new build in Marin County and are trying to decide whether to hire a designer or a contractor first, Heydt Designs eliminates that question entirely. Leigha's dual expertise as both a licensed general contractor and an interior designer means she can take a project from initial concept through completed construction with a level of continuity, communication, and control that working with separate firms rarely achieves. Schedule a consultation early, before you have committed to a contractor or a design direction, and let that dual perspective shape the project from the ground up.

Services
5
Heydt Designs
Heydt Designs - Marin County's Premier Boutique Interior Design Studio for Quiet Luxury Living
Great interior design is invisible in the best possible way - you walk into a beautifully designed home and feel something before you understand why. The light is right. The materials speak to each other. The indoor and outdoor worlds feel continuous rather than separate. The space is sophisticated but never stiff, elegant but entirely livable. That is the signature of Leigha Heydt, founder and principal of Heydt Designs - and it is why discerning homeowners across Marin County and the broader San Francisco Bay Area have trusted her for over two decades to transform their most personal spaces.
Heydt Designs Inc. is a boutique residential design firm located in Marin County, California, offering comprehensive design services and construction documents for high-end, detailed, and thoughtful homes. Based in the breathtaking coastal enclave of Muir Beach and rooted in the natural beauty of West Marin, Heydt Designs brings a rare depth of expertise, a refined aesthetic philosophy, and an unusually powerful dual credential to every project it takes on.
The Designer - A UC Berkeley Graduate Who Also Holds a General Contractor's License
What sets Leigha Heydt apart from virtually every other interior designer in Marin County is a distinction that her clients consistently cite as the single most valuable thing she brings to a project: she is both a seasoned interior designer and a licensed general contractor. With over 30 years of experience in the home improvement industry, Leigha is a leading figure in bespoke interior design throughout the San Francisco Bay Area - a UC Berkeley graduate who discovered her passion for architecture while renovating a 1922 Tudor in Oakland's historic Rockridge District.
After graduating, she co-owned and operated a residential design-build firm. In 2003 she obtained her Class B General Contractor's license from the State of California, and launched Heydt Designs in 2004. That contractor's license is not a footnote - it is the foundation of everything that makes working with Leigha different. She does not just design beautiful spaces; she understands exactly how they get built, what they cost, how permits work, and how to coordinate architects, engineers, and contractors without the communication breakdowns that derail so many remodels. The result is a design process that is smoother, faster, more accurate, and far less stressful than clients expect.
The Philosophy - Quiet Luxury, Timeless Design
Heydt Designs is a leader in quiet luxury interior design, crafting spaces that seamlessly blend timeless elegance with exceptional quality - a philosophy that prioritizes creating environments in which sophistication is felt rather than flaunted, allowing the inherent beauty of each space to shine. This is not about trends, statement pieces, or design that photographs beautifully but does not live well. It is about enduring materials, quality craftsmanship, and spaces that deepen in comfort and character over time. Her design philosophy emphasizes quiet luxury - focusing on enduring design that prioritizes timeless materials and quality craftsmanship, ensuring lasting beauty in every project.
Leigha specializes in the seamless integration of interior and exterior environments - a reflection of her deep connection to the West Marin landscape she calls home. Living in Muir Beach, surrounded by the Pacific, the headlands, and the redwoods, informs everything about how she thinks about light, materiality, and the relationship between a home and its natural setting.
The Services - From Kitchen Remodels to Complete New Builds
Heydt Designs serves clients across the full spectrum of residential projects - from focused kitchen and bath remodels to complete home renovations and ground-up new construction. Service areas include Belvedere, Tiburon, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Muir Beach, Ross, San Francisco, Sausalito, Stinson Beach, and Tamalpais-Homestead Valley - the full sweep of desirable Marin County and Bay Area communities where thoughtful, high-quality residential design is most in demand.
What Clients Say - Consistently Exceptional
The client testimonials for Heydt Designs tell a consistent story: professional, always on time, extensive CAD drawings, flawless coordination of the permit process, engineers, and contractors - with a great eye for design, smart, thorough, and responsive. One client described how Leigha transformed their kitchen remodel concept into a reality better than they could have imagined - really listening to what they said and pushing them one step further than they had planned, resulting in a transformation they could not have imagined. Another noted: her attention to detail is unparalleled - sophisticated with a generous eye for design, she executed our vision with complete accuracy, met and exceeded all expectations, and designed and created the family home of our dreams.
Heydt Designs holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a perfect 5-star rating on Houzz - metrics that reflect a practice built entirely on referrals, repeat clients, and work that speaks for itself.
31 Starbuck Drive, Muir Beach, CA 94965
(415) 847-4707
leigha@heydtdesigns.com
heydtdesigns.com
Pro tip: If you are considering a remodel or new build in Marin County and are trying to decide whether to hire a designer or a contractor first, Heydt Designs eliminates that question entirely. Leigha's dual expertise as both a licensed general contractor and an interior designer means she can take a project from initial concept through completed construction with a level of continuity, communication, and control that working with separate firms rarely achieves. Schedule a consultation early, before you have committed to a contractor or a design direction, and let that dual perspective shape the project from the ground up.
#Interior Design#Home#Muir Beach#Luxury
Pro tip: Before your first consultation, visit Barbra's 4th Street studio in person. Seeing the fully designed model-home space gives you the clearest feel for her style and helps you decide how bold you want to go.

Services
4.9
Barbra Bright Design
Barbra Bright Design — San Rafael's Bold, Vibrant Interior Design Studio Where More Is Always More
In a design world that has long celebrated restraint, Barbra Bright is a joyful, unapologetic counterpoint. A full-service residential and hospitality interior design firm based in the heart of San Rafael, Barbra Bright Design creates timeless, functional spaces for a discerning clientele. But don't let the word "timeless" fool you. These are not safe, neutral spaces. They are bold, alive, saturated with color and personality, and built for people who are done playing it small with their homes.
Barbra Bright Design creates bold interiors for clients who appreciate color, texture, and pattern. In Marin County, where so much residential design trends toward the safe and understated, that point of view is rare and genuinely refreshing.
A Life That Led to Design
Barbra Bright's path to interior design is one of the most interesting origin stories in the Marin design community. Her passion started in childhood, where she learned to sew and created costumes. That eventually led her to costume design for SRO, a 19-person cover band, where she dressed performers in sequined coattails, bow ties, cummerbunds, and custom stage wear that radiated a fun, colorful, sexy vibe.
That theatrical eye for how clothes and color create feeling and presence translated directly into how she thinks about interior spaces. After a pivotal life transition, Barbra dove into building an interior design business, working with high-end kitchen showrooms across the Bay Area before founding Barbra Bright Design and establishing her studio on 4th Street in San Rafael.
The Studio — A Model Home on 4th Street
A former comic book store in San Rafael that Barbra slowly remodeled over five years, the studio today is a unique showroom set up like a model home, with a bar, a living room, and a closet. It is designed to show how cohesive an entire house can be while remaining fully livable.
Walking into Barbra Bright Design is not like walking into a typical design office. It is like walking into a fully realized vision of what a home can be when someone with a genuine, fearless point of view is given free rein. Clients come in and see a serious designer in a fully realized space, and there is comfort in seeing a style that gives direction and permission to go bigger.
The Design Philosophy — Rules Are Meant to Be Broken
Specializing in Mid-Century Modern interiors, Barbra believes design rules are meant to be broken and that innovation and risk belong in every project. Like her personality, Bright's designs are bold, vibrant, and saturated with color, but never chaotic. There is discipline and intention behind every choice, with a careful orchestration of color, texture, pattern, and proportion that makes the whole feel exciting and deeply right.
Inspiration is everywhere for Bright, from architecture to museums to fellow designers' work, and she celebrates how many points of view people can discover on platforms like Instagram.
The Full Suite of Services
Barbra Bright Design offers dimensional floor plans and 3D perspective drawings for visualization, space planning, lighting design, and material selections for cabinetry, tile, paint, countertops, lighting, plumbing, hardware, flooring, and furniture. The firm also provides custom cabinetry and furniture design, plus full project management from concept through installation.
With a studio on 4th Street in San Rafael, Barbra serves clients from Marin to Napa to San Francisco, bringing that same bold, personal design sensibility to projects across the Bay Area.
Featured in Marin Living Magazine
Barbra Bright has been featured in Marin Living Magazine, which highlighted her maximalist, more-is-more aesthetic as an important and welcome counterpoint to prevailing local trends. That recognition reflects what her clients already know: Barbra Bright Design creates work that is distinctive, deeply personal, and impossible to forget.
1560 4th Street, Suite B, San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 686-2928
info@barbrabrightdesign.com
barbrabrightdesign.com
Pro tip: Before your first consultation, visit Barbra's 4th Street studio in person. Seeing the fully designed model-home space gives you the clearest feel for her style and helps you decide how bold you want to go.
#Interior Design#San Rafael#4th St#Home
Pro tip: Follow @emmas__shop for early looks at jewelry drops and vintage arrivals. If you are hunting for a custom piece or specific style, message Emma directly - the best finds go fast.

Retail & Shopping
5
Emma's Shop
Emma's Shop - Fairfax's Beloved Boutique for Handmade Jewelry, Vintage Finds and Conscious Living
Some shops sell things. Emma's Shop tells a story. Tucked along Bolinas Road in the heart of downtown Fairfax, Emma's Shop is one of those rare local gems that feels instantly personal - a carefully curated world of handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, natural skincare, and artisanal goods that reflects the genuine taste, values, and creative spirit of the woman who built it.
Emma's Shop was created by jewelry designer and vintage collector Emma Rose out of a desire to merge her worlds of jewelry and vintage under one roof - a one-stop shop for all the goods. What started as a beautiful idea has grown into one of Fairfax's most beloved retail destinations, with a loyal community of locals who stop in not just to shop but to connect with something that feels authentically, joyfully Marin.
The Founder - A True West Marin Original
Emma is a local girl who is very talented and creates many of the items she sells, and that origin story matters deeply to what Emma's Shop is and how it feels. Emma still makes all of her Emma Rose Designs jewelry out of her tree house in West Marin, California - a detail that is as charming as it sounds, and one that imbues every piece in the shop with a sense of place and intentionality that mass-produced goods simply cannot replicate.
Two Beautiful Locations on Bolinas Road
In June of 2020, Emma signed the lease to a sweet little brick-and-mortar space in Fairfax at 29 Bolinas Road. Two years later, in June of 2022, she opened her second retail location in collaboration with Fox and Stone Salon and Collective at 54 Bolinas Road - a sun-filled space with tall ceilings and windows, with a full-service salon behind it. Two shops, one street, one vision - the kind of organic growth that happens when a community genuinely embraces what you are doing.
The Collection - Mindfully Curated, Locally Rooted
Emma's Shop carries both vintage and new curated brands, all selected with the same discerning eye that goes into her own jewelry designs. The store is packed with a curated selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, and handmade artisanal products that are both beautiful and functional - from organic skincare to herbal remedies, natural wellness products, superfood powders, and eco-conscious beauty essentials.
The ethos running through every shelf and rack is one of conscious living - sustainability, local sourcing, natural ingredients, and the belief that the things you surround yourself with should be beautiful, purposeful, and made with care.
A Fairfax Community Anchor
Emma's Shop has become a beloved fixture of the Fairfax community, with many locals stopping in for a browse and a chat on a regular basis. That sense of community is no accident - it is the natural result of a shop that genuinely reflects the town it calls home. Fairfax has always been a place that celebrates independent spirit, creative living, and conscious community, and Emma's Shop embodies all of it.
Whether you are hunting for a one-of-a-kind handmade ring, a vintage piece that nobody else has, a natural skincare essential, or the perfect gift for someone who appreciates real craft and thoughtful curation, Emma's Shop is where Fairfax shops.
54 Bolinas Road, Fairfax, CA 94930 (primary location)
(415) 295-7352
hello@emmas-shop.com
emmas-shop.com
@emmas__shop on Instagram
Open Tuesday-Sunday 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Closed Monday. Walk-ins welcome.
Pro tip: Follow @emmas__shop for early looks at jewelry drops and vintage arrivals. If you are hunting for a custom piece or specific style, message Emma directly - the best finds go fast.
#Boutique#Vintage#Jewelry#Fairfax
Pro tip: Share your room's style and color direction with the team - they can quickly point you to current pieces or upcoming arrivals that fit your vision.

Retail & Shopping
5
Paisley Home
Paisley Home - San Anselmo's Hidden Gem for Vintage Mid-Century Modern Decor, Fine Art and Gifts
There are home decor stores, and then there are places that genuinely change how you think about your living space. Paisley Home, also known as Paisley Curated, is firmly in the second category. Nestled in the quaint town of San Anselmo at 2 Tunstead Avenue, this lovingly curated shop has quickly become one of Marin County's most talked-about destinations for vintage Mid-Century Modern furniture, fine art, one-of-a-kind statement pieces, and high-quality gifts you simply will not find anywhere else in the North Bay.
The community reception since opening has been nothing short of enthusiastic, and it is easy to understand why. In a design landscape increasingly dominated by mass-produced furniture and algorithmically generated aesthetic trends, Paisley Home offers something genuinely different: the thrill of discovery, the beauty of craft, and the satisfaction of owning something with real history and character.
The Collection - Curated with a Discerning Eye
Paisley Curated was built around a simple but powerful mission: bringing lost, found, brilliant, and beautiful Mid-Century Modern and statement pieces to a discerning clientele. Their range spans vintage Mid-Century Modern furniture, fine art, barware, kitchen essentials, and home goods designed for both aesthetic and functional appeal. The shop carries vintage and antique finds, rare treasures, and timeless collectibles alongside carefully sourced Mid-Century Modern furniture - the kind of pieces that anchor a room, spark conversation, and only get more beautiful with age.
What Makes Paisley Home Special
The difference between Paisley Home and a typical vintage or antique shop is the caliber of the curation. This is not a browse-and-hope experience; every piece has earned its place. Customers describe it as having great mid-century furnishings and so much more, one of the few places this unique and special in all of Marin. The staff bring genuine knowledge and warmth to every interaction, helping customers understand the provenance and story behind what they are seeing, and matching the right piece to the right home.
The shop's dual identity, both a brick-and-mortar boutique in the heart of San Anselmo and an online shop serving customers across California, means the inventory is always moving, always fresh, and always worth checking back on whether you visit in person or browse digitally.
A Dream Destination for Interior Design Lovers
Whether you are a dedicated Mid-Century Modern purist hunting for a specific era of Scandinavian design, a California coastal aesthetic devotee looking for the perfect sculptural lamp or ceramic piece, or someone who simply wants their home to feel less like a showroom and more like a story, Paisley Home is your place. The staff are fabulous and a great addition to the San Anselmo community, and the shop feels like a reflection of everything that makes San Anselmo such a beloved and creative corner of Marin County.
2 Tunstead Ave, San Anselmo, CA 94960
(415) 793-0936
paisleysa.com
@paisleyhomesa on Instagram and TikTok
Open Tuesday-Sunday 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM. Closed Monday.
Pro tip: Share your room's style and color direction with the team - they can quickly point you to current pieces or upcoming arrivals that fit your vision.
#Home Decor#Furniture#San Anselmo#Boutique
Pro tip: The bay-facing cottages book out weeks in advance for weekends - reserve early if you want a water-view room. For day visitors, weekday lunch with calm bay water and lighter crowds is ideal. Order the BBQ oysters and clam chowder, sit close to the water, and let the afternoon unfold.

Food & Drink
4.6
Nick's Cove

Nick's Cove — West Marin's Most Romantic Waterfront Restaurant, Oyster Bar & Cottage Retreat on Tomales Bay
Nick's Cove pairs dramatic Tomales Bay views with standout seafood, oyster-bar classics, and bayside cottages, making it one of the most memorable dining-and-stay experiences on the West Marin coast.
There are places you go to eat. And then there are places you go to remember. Nick's Cove, perched directly on the shimmering shore of Tomales Bay in the tiny coastal town of Marshall, belongs firmly in the second category. A coastal sanctuary on Tomales Bay, Nick's Cove is a favorite for day-trippers and world travelers alike - a place where the boundary between dining room and natural world dissolves, and every meal feels like a genuine occasion.
Nick's Cove has remained a local institution on the West Marin coastline for more than 90 years. Redeveloped and reopened in 2007, it now combines the revived restaurant and oyster bar with twelve luxury cottages on historic Highway 1.
The Restaurant & Oyster Bar - Farm-to-Table Seafood with a View That Stops You Cold
At the casual eatery and bar, the menu pays homage to the coastal history of the property with elevated fish-house classics built around sustainable seafood, seasonal produce, and homegrown herbs. Oysters from nearby Tomales Bay are the stars, freshly shucked and served within yards of where they were grown. Signature favorites include acclaimed clam chowder, Crab or Shrimp Louie, seafood-forward brunch items like crab benedict, plus fresh-squeezed mimosas and strong Bloody Marys.
The bar program blends balanced seasonal craft cocktails with an award-winning wine list. The hunting-lodge feel - wood-burning fireplace, mahogany bar, and coastal memorabilia - creates a nostalgic atmosphere that fits this part of Northern California perfectly. From most seats, the Tomales Bay view is one of the best dining outlooks in Marin County.
The Cottages - Rustic Luxury on the Water
Nick's Cove's twelve colorful cottages deliver relaxed bayside luxury for quick getaways or longer retreats. Each cottage has its own personality, with plush down comforters, wood-burning stoves, and upscale bathrooms with heated floors and soaking tubs. Five cottages sit directly on Tomales Bay, while seven are set just across Highway 1 in a meadow setting. Morning pastry and French press coffee delivery adds to the experience.
The property has earned national recognition for romance and pet-friendly travel, reinforcing what locals already know: this is one of West Marin's most special overnight destinations.
Locals' Night - Live Music Every Tuesday
Nick's Cove is also a true community gathering place. Local musicians play every Tuesday for Locals' Night, keeping the venue rooted in West Marin life as much as destination travel.
23240 Highway 1, Marshall, CA 94940
(415) 663-1033
nickscove.com
Restaurant open daily - Lunch Monday-Friday 11:00 AM; Brunch Saturday-Sunday 10:00 AM; Dinner nightly 5:00 PM · Complimentary valet parking weekends & holidays
Pro tip: The bay-facing cottages book out weeks in advance for weekends - reserve early if you want a water-view room. For day visitors, weekday lunch with calm bay water and lighter crowds is ideal. Order the BBQ oysters and clam chowder, sit close to the water, and let the afternoon unfold.
#Seafood#Marshall#Tomales Bay#Lodging
Local Favorite
