Curvy Highway 1, breathtaking vistas of the ocean, lush meadows, oyster farms, small towns, local delicacies, and pristine nature is what you can expect on your drive up to Bodega Bay. Only about two hours away from San Francisco this day trip will give you the satisfaction of a faraway weekend escape.
Our road trip starts at Tamalpais-Homestead Valley at the Equator Coffee Roasters. This tiny spot directly on Highway 1 is great way to get fuelled on fresh coffee and baked goods for the day ahead. // 244 Shoreline Hwy, equatorcoffees.com
Just after you make the turn onto Highway 1, the road will get pretty curvy as it passes pungent Eucalyptus groves. A few miles later, the ocean will reveal itself in all of its magnificence. Make sure to stop at the Muir Beach Overlook for spectacular views of the coast, with the San Francisco’s skyline peeking in the background. // Check out the map.
Endless white sand beach, volleyball courts, huge picnic area, souvenir and surf shops, and restaurants along the highway are staples along Stinson Beach. It’s probably San Francisco’s favorite beach away from the city's routine chaos.
We recommend: The Breakers Cafe if you are in a need of breakfast. For some coffee and ice cream on the beach, check out Parkside Café. // Check out the map.
Finding this sleepy town is a bit tricky as the residents are not so welcoming when it comes to touristy crowds. Case in point? All signs pointing toward Bolinas have been removed. (Respect this town's peace and nobody will get hurt!) Browse the tiny streets, go to the beach, watch the surfers, and enjoy the lack of tourists. Make a stop at Gospel Flat Farmstand, an honor-system grocery with some of the freshest produce. // Check out the map.
Point Reyes Station is a cute town with wild-west architecture hosting fine shops, galleries, general stores, and restaurants. Its proximity to the Point Reyes National Shore Park makes this place a beloved travel destination. We love Point Reyes mainly because of Cowgirl Creamery's award-winning cheese. We recommend checking out their factory for a cheese tasting and, should the mood strike, a bowl of tomato soup and grilled cheese. Heaven on earth. // Check out the map.
For all you oyster lovers, you'll never want to leave Tomales Bay. A few notable areas to satiate your fresh oyster cravings? Tomales Bay Oyster Farm, Marshall’s Store, and Hog Oyster. // Check out the map.
No reservation are required here for parties of 10 or less. Bring your own food — except oysters and clams, of course, which you can purchase onsite and shuck for yourself — for a memorable picnic. Before you go, be sure to review their guidelines. // 15479 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, tomalesbayoystercompany.com
Located next to the Highway 1, this spot is great for grilled oysters and other sea food dishes. // 19225 State Road 1, Marshall, themarshallstore.com
A bit on the pricier side, Hog Oyster remains a favorite among oyster fans. Some tables require reservations — sometimes weeks in advance! — but community tables are on a first-come first-serve basis. See their reservation terms here. // 20215 California 1, Marshall, hogislandoysters.com
This small hovel belongs to Nick’s Cove restaurant, but it’s accessible to the public. You can sit outside if the weather is nice or you can cozy up inside with fireplace and piano. // 23240 Hwy 1, Marshall, nickscove.com
You have arrived at your destination. Not only a favorite among filmmakers — see: The Birds, The Goonies, The Fog, I Know What You Did Last Summer — this small town is also a great place to unwind, explore nature, have a picnic, go hiking, or just soak in the beautiful wildness of North California. If your stomach is rumbling after the drive up, try the fish ’n’ chips at The Boat House or get coffee and pastries from Roadhouse Coffee. Doran Beach is nearby for an easy walk to stretch the legs.
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