There are certain blocks in the Bay Area that are ripe for adventure. Each weekend, we'll highlight a stretch of pavement where you could spend an entire day and night. This week: Main Street in Tiburon.
Get There:
Ferries depart daily from Pier 41 in the city en route to Tiburon, and once you're on the northern peninsula everything is conveniently within walking distance from the dock – but feel free to bring your bike and hiking boots along for the adventure. Here's the ferry schedule.
Drinks:
Cozy up to a glass of wine while you watch the sun set over the water at the Main Street Wine Bar and Bottle Shop. An intimate setting with both indoor and outdoor seating, the menu boasts over twenty different wines by the glass. If you want to try more than one, opt for the wine flight and artisan cheese plate to nibble on, or keep it casual with a beer and the hummus plate. Head there on a Friday night to catch the weekly wine tasting where you’ll meet the featured wine makers, taste wines, and gobble appetizers. If you’re looking for a delicious souvenir to take home with you, Main Street Wine Bar also carries over 200 different labels from around the world for purchase, and their knowledgeable staff is more than happy to help you find the perfect bottle of vino for any occasion.
Island Hopping:
Make a pit stop on Angel Island before you rendezvous in Tiburon (or head there from the north side of the bay) for excellent biking, hiking, and gorgeous views of the Bay. Most Bay Areans have never even been to the historically significant island, but there’s lots to do and see before you end the day relaxing with live music and a drink at Angel Island Cantina. If you’re feeling lazy (or tipsy) you can still head to the island and opt for the Segway tour. There’s only two main roads in the park, but we’ve already mapped out the ultimate Angel Island bike ride here for your convenience (you can even rent a bike on the island, so you don't have to worry about bringing yours along). Still not convinced Angel Island should be a part of your weekend trip? Just check out these gorgeous shots taken from the middle of the bay.
Breakfast and Coffee:
Refuel at Caffe Acri with hot pressed panini, warm soups, scones, muffins, and pastries all made in house daily. Located right next to the ferry dock this is the perfect place to grab a morning cup of joe – their secret house blend involves six different beans – before you begin your day. Or come back for dinner at their adjoining, certified green, organic restaurant Servino for authentic Italian fare. Opt for the Pesce del Giorno (market fish of the day) to see what the local fishermen are pulling in that day. Thursday evening happy hours are especially lively when the restaurant offers wine tastings from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Dinner:
Duplicating the flavors of its namesake Mexican city, Guayamas serves up fresh seafood while you sit over the bay. Maybe you just go for the gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge as you sip cocktails seaside, but you're in for a treat if you sample some of their authentic Mexican seafood from giant grilled shrimp to fresh market catches. To compliment the menu, the bar offers an extensive list of margaritas, tequilas, beers, wines, and agua frescas (check out their happy hour Monday - Friday from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.).
Dog Friendly Eats:
Finding a dog-friendly dining experience can be tough, even in the Bay Area where we adore our pets. Casa Mañana in Ark Row is a double whammy: dog friendly and affordable. Dishing up authentic Mexican and Salvadorian cuisine, you can feast on tacos, salad, and dessert for under $10! Canines get waited on just as well as owners, and there's an outdoor patio where everyone can enjoy people watching.
Hiking:
If you're headed to Tiburon for killer views, spring wildflowers, and some outdoor time, then Ring Mountain is the perfect hiking trail. You're in for breath taking 360-degree views of the bay, which only get more impressive as you gain altitude. The incline is pretty steep and begins immediately, so wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks for fuel. Look out for graded areas where buildings and radars emplacements were situated when Ring Mountain served as an Army installation during the Cold War. Click here for a map of the entire hike.
For more one-stop adventure ideas, check out all our Weekend Warriors.
