tomales bay, california
how to spend 2 perfect days in tomales bay
At just about an hour’s drive from San Francisco, Tomales Bay is the perfect coastal escape for a 2-night getaway.
Tomales Bay is certainly no secret, but it was our first visit, and it’s an area that feels almost frozen in time, which is so refreshing these days. Life seems to operate at its own pace, folks turn in early (most restaurants are lunch-only or close at 8PM), and you’re surrounded by nature — and as we came to discover, thousands of acres of land protected from future development, something so taken for granted.
Whether you’re traveling with a dog or not, if you’re an oyster/seafood/coast lover, Tomales Bay won’t disappoint. We’re already so ready for our next visit.
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Stop off at Palace Market in Point Reyes Station for sandwiches
Grab some amazing cheese from Point Reyes Farmstead — easy to zip right by so keep an eye out!
Get settled in your room at the Lodge at Marconi and then enjoy lunch in one of the many outdoor areas of the property — the hotel is actually located within the Marconi State Historic Park
Head over to dinner at Nick’s Cove
Enjoy s’mores by the firepit back at the lodge
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Time for brunch oysters at The Marshall Store, which came to be our fav spot and had the cleanest shucked oysters we’ve ever had. They also have $2 (!) raw oysters on Thursdays and absolutely do not forget to order some of their garlic bread.
Take a scenic drive down to Limantour Beach, one of only a couple dog-friendly beaches on the coast
Make a pit stop back at Palace Market for some soft serve
Head back to the lodge and squeeze in a game of cards or any of their other table games in the very retro lobby area (also fittingly full of neat vintage radios)
Make your way north to Bodega Bay and enjoy a casual but delish dinner at Fishetarian Fish Market — go for ahi burger and the lobster roll if it’s available
Watch the sunset from Tower Hill
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Get one more peaceful walk on the property in before checking out
Make sure to grab some oysters for later on your way out of town from Tomales Bay Oyster Co. They supply ice, and if you don’t have your own cooler, they also sell biodegradable coolers. Get shuckin’!
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Tomales Bay is a year-round destination, however different times of year will offer different experiences. For whale-watching or elephant seal sightings, you might consider visiting mid-January to mid-March or late April to early May. For wildflowers, try the springtime, and for elk rutting, think about late summer into September/October.
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If you plan to do any hikes or walks with your four-legged friend, we noticed foxtails almost everywhere — especially in drier, grassier areas, so make sure to check them thoroughly after walks (also for burrs!).
