Black Sands Beach — Attraction in Sausalito

Drive out from the East Bay/Martinez was rough, lots of traffic crossing the Richmond bridge 1.5 hours from home. Parking was limited although parking along the mountain was safe and ample. At first the weather was awful 90s in Martinez to 63 at the beach, that all changed once we walked down. Once the fig lifted it was amazing. Absolutely beautiful black sands beach... More than enough space to eat lunch and walk the beach. People were extra friendly and there were mostly families and couples. Saw one nude guy but he was modest and kept to himself n yes it was to the far left of the stairs... Found some rocks and shells and caught some sun (got burnt tbh) despite it being cold at first. The walk up was a bit challenging on way back to the vehicle, yet there were nonstop breath taking views. The road is one way in and one way out, most of the way. There is a beach called Rodeo Beach as well which you will not miss once you leave Black Sands, the one way road assures that it can't be missed, not as personal and intimate of a location as Black Sands Beach and Rodeo Beach was very crowded. Although the benefit of Rodeo Beach is, there's not a hike in and out. We will definitely give Rodeo Beach a shot next time in the area. Overall it was a spiritual Saturday and well worth the drive and hike. Recommend Black Sands Beach for all and everyone, only tip would be pack light. Prepare for the beautiful California coast unfortunately the videos and pictures do not do the location justice. Gotta be there to truly...

This is a beautiful secluded beach with a small parking lot and a 1 stall restroom. The walk down was easy until you get to the end, it appears the dirt has fallen away from the steps so it's like a tiny suspended bridge but only for a couple steps. Very peaceful, was sad that there was trash everywhere, water bottles, plastic bags, blankets that people left, etc, for it to be such a gorgeous little strip of beach you would think people would clean up after themselves. There was also quiet a bit of seaweed and some beach wood debris in the sand. The walk back up was a steep one, the steps are low so it's doable. We went because this beach was supposed to have a nude side but there were a lot of families with small kids and people with dogs off leash even though dogs weren't supposed to be allowed on the beach. One dog even ran up to me snarling and barking and the owner didn't say a word, she just stood there and watched. We are not all dog lovers, pet owners should understand that and be mindful that we look for safe spaces where we dogs are not allowed on purpose. Overall I enjoyed my visit but will not be going back. The trash and dogs were enough...

This little gem is just past all the crowded tourist photo op spots. Just down the scenic one-way road, first lot you see. Barely anyone there when I went on a Friday evening. Wonderful views and uncrowded - the trade off is the short (0.2mi) but steep trail down to the beach. Trekking poles are a good idea if you even think you might need some extra support. Not a good place to bring a large cooler or a ton of gear. Great place for a quiet walk on what feels like a private beach. True to the name, the sand is black, or at least dark. Much of it is less sand, and more a very fine gravel - still pleasant to walk on barefoot.

If you walk up the informal trail from the parking lot, the hilltop offers wonderful vistas of the surrounding area - and plenty fresh, clean air - it smells amazing.

There is a single-occupancy vault toilet - bring your own...