Stinson Beach — Local services in Mill Valley

Although I've lived in the Bay Area for 13 of the past 17 years, I've really only been to Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel, all of which are several hours away, most likely require an overnight stay, so no day beach trips, and are not beaches really fit to go swimming in, save for Santa Cruz, although I have yet to hit the sand or water in Santa Cruz; when I want to hit the beach, I have always chased the sun down in my hometown, Southern California, where i frequent Newport and Huntington Beaches.

A lot of beaches south of SF on the Peninsula showed up from my seach, but I live in Pinole, so trekking out to that coastline is a bit of a mission and I anticipate trying to find parking along the unfamilar Great Highway and PCH was going to be difficult or impossible. So I decided to check out what this side of the Golden Gate had to offer, and boy am I glad I did!

Driving from Pinole to Stinson Beach took me through Mount Tamalpais State Park. The road drives along the top of a mountain that surrounds and winds around the incredibly awe inspiring Muir Woods National Park. Driving the windy, curving roads is becoming my favorite part of heading out to Stinson Beach. I had originally planned to take the road to Muir Beach and take PCH up to Stinson, so I could check out both beaches in one trip, but Waze didn't know in June/July that back in January/February the road had fallen apart and PCH was closed between Muir and Stinson Beach-thank goodness for the detour signs and thank God I followed them! (Google Maps, however, did know!) As the road through the woods ends, a crest that is the coast line appears, and it is beautiful and amazing like nothing I'd seen before!

People online say that on the weekends it's best to head out there early in the morning as the parking lots fill up quickly, and once there's no parking, you'll have to head a mile+ past the beach to find the next parking lot! My first visit here was a Friday after work, after 4PM~ish, and I expected the crowd to be minimal, and I was right! I was able to park in the spot closest to the beach! All day I had been checking the weather and people's posts on Instragram and it was showing clear, sunny, and warm, but sure enough, with my luck, as I was driving the top of Tamalpais Park, damn Karl the Fog was rolling in, and once I reached the beach, it was very overcast and a bit breezy. But I did not let that stop Molly and I from enjoying the beach!

That was a few weeks ago. Yesterday, we had another so-called heatwave (I say that because the Bay will never know scorching hot heat like L.A. has!), and I convinced the wife to head out to the beach. As we were heading out there, we told Karl the Fog-You're Drunk! Go Home! And thankfully Karl listened to us! It was clear, sunny, blue skies, and warm all thru the evening! Also along the way I was praying and praying that parking would not be an issue and by the Grace of God, we found parking immediately as we got there, even with some lots closed from being full. About half or more than half of the beach prohibits dogs; the top/north half allows dogs so that's the part we spent our time on; dogs are allowed all throughout the parking lots. I was very happy I was able to swim in the water! I checked the beach report weeks earlier and surprisingly this beach is rated A/A+ for water quality! Still, the water was freezing cold, but I sucked it up and once you dunk your head in it, you get used to it. It was the wife's first time and she instantly fell in love! Her first time there and she's already asking/telling that she wants to come back at least once a month! Yay! We found a little wannabe SoCal beach very close to our home! Parking is free, picnic areas have bbq grills and are clean, there are many restrooms spaced and nearby, and there's even a snack bar/cafe with a walk-up window walking distance from the parking lot! This place is real hidden gem of the Bay Area, and I'm so grateful I...

Review: A Relaxing Day at Stinson Beach, California

Stinson Beach, located just a scenic drive north of San Francisco, is a quintessential California beach destination that offers both natural beauty and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re visiting for the stunning views or a day of relaxation, Stinson Beach is a memorable escape.

Setting and Atmosphere

The beach is expansive, with soft golden sand and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. On clear days, the horizon seems endless, while cooler, foggy mornings add a touch of mystique. The surrounding cliffs and hills create a breathtaking backdrop, making it a photographer’s dream. The beach has a calm and friendly atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Activities

• Swimming and Sunbathing: The water is inviting, though a bit chilly. The gentle waves make it suitable for a refreshing swim or wading. • Hiking: Nearby trails, like the Dipsea Trail, offer stunning vistas of the coastline for those seeking a bit of adventure. • Picnicking: With picnic tables and grassy areas, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the ocean breeze. • Beachcombing: Walking along the shore, you’ll find plenty of shells and driftwood to admire.

Amenities

The beach is well-equipped with facilities, including restrooms, showers, and a small parking lot (which fills up quickly on weekends). There are also nearby cafes and restaurants for those who prefer to grab a bite rather than pack a meal.

Accessibility and Tips

Stinson Beach is easy to reach via Highway 1, but the winding road can be a challenge for some drivers—take it slow and enjoy the views. Arrive early if visiting on weekends or holidays to secure parking and avoid crowds. The beach is dog-friendly, making it a great option for pet owners.

Conclusion

Stinson Beach is a perfect coastal retreat for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Northern California. Whether you’re spending the day basking in the sun, exploring nearby trails, or simply savoring the serenity, this beach is...

Stinson Beach is an absolute gem of a destination, located just north of San Francisco in Marin County. This beautiful beach is a perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

The beach itself is stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just lounging around and taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The waves can be a bit rough, so it's not always the best spot for surfing, but it's still a great place to get in the water and cool off on a hot day.

One of the things I love most about Stinson Beach is the surrounding area. The hills and mountains that surround the beach are absolutely breathtaking, and there are some great hiking trails nearby that offer incredible views of the coastline. The Dipsea Trail is a popular choice, and it offers some challenging terrain as well as some stunning vistas.

There are also some great restaurants and cafes in the area, so you can easily make a day of it and enjoy some delicious food and drink after a day at the beach. And if you're looking to stay overnight, there are some great vacation rentals and hotels in the area that offer a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Overall, I highly recommend Stinson Beach to anyone looking for a beautiful and peaceful beach getaway. It's truly a hidden gem that's worth...