San Francisco Day Trip – Stinson Beach.
If you are planning on visiting San Francisco, you should know about this little gem.
Located on Highway One, just north of San Francisco, Stinson is truly an iconic Bay Area getaway. It’s a blend of sun and fog, beach and cliffs, funky and upscale – and that’s the way we like it.
Don’t go to Stinson expecting a typical day at the beach. You’ll be disappointed, not to mention freezing. Instead, dress in layers, pack your parka, and prepare for fog.
If you time your visit perfectly, you might enjoy a tiny window of sun (or even an entire sunny day!), but more often than not, the fog will creep in at some point. It’s beautiful, but cold.
Pick up gourmet sandwiches at The Lunch Box, or picnic fixins’ at Stinson Beach Market, then head down to the beach for a picnic and views. Or fog and waves.
If you’re so inclined, you can also rent a house or a cottage right on the beach.
Stinson is right around the corner from Point Reyes, Muir Woods, and the Marin Headlands, so it would be easy to mix and match.
Have you been to Stinson before? Are you adventurous enough to try it?
Being from the east coast this is probably one of my favorite places in CA. It’s a great fun little town. There are also amazing trails that are great for trail running/hiking. I’m a fan of the trails because of the unique viewshed (beach, mountains, cliffs, and redwoods). I usually combine this day trip into a Stinson/Sonoma day, nothing beats that. Also, I’ve rented a house there for the weekend before, which is one of my most memorable trips in a long time. I can’t say enough good things about this area.
A – Yes, the blend of views is truly amazing.
Though it’s been years, love this lil gem of a beach! Love the funky mellow vibe.
Rebecca – It’s still funky!
Don’t let the gray skies deceive you, I got the worst sunburn of my life, napping on Stinson Beach on an overcast day. Blisters, weeping skin, the works.
heavenlyjane – Ugh! Awful. Good advice.
The real treat of going to Stinson is the drive hanging off the cliffs……and the Stinson Beach is a favorite of ours……
JustSaying – the drive is actually the WORST part for me. Lots of windy roads = carsick potential!
We are coming in July to see some ball games. Any suggestions for a beach day even closer to SFO?
heather – Alameda Beach is fantastic. Never crowded, and often sunnier. No waves to speak of, though.