July 19, 2026
Adventure to San Francisco
In July 2026, I ventured west to explore the San Francisco Bay Area in California. A major part of my itinerary was to take some easy North Bay coastal hikes during my stay. I didn’t have any specific trails in mind before the trip. Instead, I decided to see where my curiosity would take me.
I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of trails I discovered, including Lands End, Chimney Rock, Tomales Point, and Rodeo Beach. Each hike offered something different, from dramatic coastal cliffs and peaceful beaches to historic sites and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
After flying into San Francisco International Airport mid-morning, I picked up my rental car and headed north. My first stop was the Lands End area of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Easy North Bay Coastal Hikes #1 – Lands End Coastal Trail
Lands End is located in the northwest corner of San Francisco. The Coastal Trail winds through a stretch of cypress forest bordered by dramatic sea cliffs.
Mile Rock Beach and Golden Gate Bridge
I parked for free at the Lands End Lookout parking lot and set out on the Coastal Trail, which consists of dirt and rocky sections. After about a mile, I reached the stunning Mile Rock Beach. To get down to the beach, I walked down a long staircase. The beach is small and rocky, but very scenic, with crashing waves and gorgeous views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge. I couldn’t resist taking several videos and photos of this beautiful area.
Eagle’s Point and China Beach
After rewarding myself for climbing back up the steep steps, I continued another 0.6 miles to Eagle’s Point for some excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The trail concludes here, but since my curiosity was piqued, I continued exploring. I walked another 0.6 miles into the Sea Cliff residential area to China Beach. Along the way, I enjoyed looking around this upscale neighborhood, with its large homes and beautifully manicured yards.
China Beach was undergoing construction during my visit, so I couldn’t access the beach. Regardless, I found the history of the area fascinating. Apparently, Chinese fishermen used to camp here and dock their boats during the Gold Rush in the 1850s. Just imagine!
USS San Francisco Memorial and Sutro Baths
On my way back, just past the Mile Rock Beach stairs, I climbed several stairs to visit the USS San Francisco Memorial. I learned that the ship was one of the U.S. Navy’s most decorated warships of World War II.
As I neared the parking area, I hiked down to get a better view of the Sutro Baths. I imagined the massive public swimming complex that opened on March 14, 1896, before being destroyed by fire in June 1966. Finally, I stopped at the visitor center adjacent to the parking area. I enjoyed browsing the gift shop, which offered a variety of locally themed gifts.
As I reached my car, I basked in the satisfaction of completing my 4.4-mile round-trip hike. More importantly, I was happy to have explored such a beautiful part of San Francisco while also receiving an unexpected history lesson!
FISH Restaurant in Sausalito
When I’m near the sea, I always crave a big bowl of clam chowder, and this trip was no exception.
Fortunately, I found a wonderful, low-key restaurant on the Sausalito marina called FISH. I simply ordered from the cashier, who promptly handed me my soup and a glass of wine. I dined outside at a small picnic table and enjoyed views of the nearby fishing boats, with Angel Island and Belvedere Island in the distance.
My relaxing and delicious dinner was the perfect way to celebrate a long and satisfying day. Afterward, I strolled through downtown Sausalito and browsed a few shops.
Rest came easy at the wonderful Airbnb I had reserved for my stay in Sausalito, California, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County.
July 20, 2026
Point Reyes National Seashore
I rose early and departed around 5:30 a.m. for my hour-long drive to Point Reyes National Seashore. Visiting Point Reyes had been on my bucket list for longer than I can remember.
Established on September 13, 1962, the park encompasses 71,028 acres of protected coastal landscape and includes approximately 80 miles of coastline. It is known for its incredible wildlife, dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and diverse scenery.
Route to Point Reyes
My route took me along scenic Highway 1, passing Mount Tamalpais State Park and traveling through the enchanting village of Stinson Beach, California. I had briefly visited Stinson in 2022 and had always wanted to see it again.
My next destination was the quaint town of Point Reyes Station. It was a beautiful drive, with forests continually on my left and views of Tomales Bay on my right. Before I knew it, I was passing through Inverness and soon entering the park.
On my left, at the northern end of Inverness Ridge, was a dense canopy of bishop pines and Douglas firs. The unique shapes of the pines added to the drama of the scenery.
Cypress Tree Tunnel and Historic KPH Maritime Radio Receiving Station
From there, I left the pines behind and traveled through grasslands and rolling hills. Shortly after passing the turnoff for Drakes Estero, I came upon the Cypress Tree Tunnel on my right. These beautiful Monterey cypress trees line the road to the Historic KPH Maritime Radio Receiving Station, which was last operated in 1998.
I learned that the station once provided ship-to-shore communications, including telegrams using Morse code and marine telex service. The Monterey cypress trees were planted in 1930 and have since grown into an amazing tree tunnel. Because it was still early, I had the trees and surrounding views all to myself.
Back on the road, I had three beach turnoffs to choose from, but I decided to delay exploring them until some of the fog lifted.
Easy North Bay Coastal Hike #2 – Chimney Rock Trail
The road curved southwest and then headed east toward Chimney Rock. Once I arrived, I was treated to views of elephant seals from the Elephant Seal Overlook, about a half-mile away.
After viewing the seals, I began my hike to the end of Chimney Rock, which is 1.8 miles round trip from the parking area.
Along the way, I paused to check out the Historic Point Reyes Lifeboat Station. Here, I spotted several more elephant seals playing near the pier in Drakes Bay. I learned that the current station, with its historic boathouse and officers’ quarters, was operated from 1927 to 1968. The long white houses the historic marine railway. The station once launched motorized lifeboats from here for rescue missions, but during my visit, the pier belonged entirely to the birds!
From there, I walked up and along a narrow peninsula. As I climbed, I enjoyed panoramic views of water on both sides—Drakes Bay and the Pacific Ocean—as well as beautiful wildflowers. Because I started around 7 a.m., I was essentially a solo hiker on the trail. With the crisp morning air, I felt exhilarated to be there. I didn’t even mind the foggy surroundings!
At the trail’s end, I peered down at the crashing waves, ocean mist, and abundant seabirds perched on the large rocks below. I enjoyed several peaceful moments gazing out at the sea and feeling grateful for my journey here.
Point Reyes Lighthouse
Satisfied after my wonderful hike, I headed west a few miles to the Headlands, where I parked and hiked to the historic 1870 Point Reyes Lighthouse. I walked about half a mile to the small visitor center. From there, I descended 313 concrete steps to see the lighthouse.
As expected, there was heavy fog, very cool temperatures, and fierce winds.
I learned that the lighthouse was purposely built below the cliff so that its light could shine underneath the fog. The lighthouse operated from 1870 to 1975 and houses an impressive Fresnel lens crafted in Paris, France.
I’m happy to say that I only paused twice during my steep climb back up to the visitor center! As I walked back to my car, several people were arriving. The park was waking up!
Drakes Beach
My next stop was Drakes Beach, where I had hoped to see more northern elephant seals. While I didn’t see any seals, I did see a few more people. Some were relaxing in beach chairs while others were walking along the shore.
I spent a little time there and walked a couple hundred yards in either direction. I learned that the beach is named after Sir Francis Drake, who visited the area aboard his ship, the Golden Hind, in 1579. The beach has dramatic, 150-foot-tall white sandstone cliffs that apparently reminded Drake of the Cliffs of Dover in England.
South Beach
After a pleasant stay and a bit of breakfast, I continued to South Beach along the Pacific Ocean. I was pleased to discover clearer skies there. Despite one camper van and one car in the parking lot, I ended up being the only person on the beach for more than 45 minutes.
It felt magical to stroll along the beautiful sand as the waves crashed and seabirds chirped!
Pierce Point Ranch
Back in my car, I headed toward historic Pierce Point Ranch, a 19th-century dairy farm located at the northern tip of the park. Once there, I learned the ranch operated from 1858 to 1973 and eventually became a large dairy operation.
I enjoyed walking around the complex, which included a farmhouse, barn, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and dairy houses. How satisfying it must have been to live and work in such a scenic area. Interestingly enough, the farmhouse is now used as a private residence for National Park Service employees. How cool would that be?
Easy North Bay Coastal Hikes #3 – Tomales Point Trail with Tule Elk Sighting
The trailhead for the 9.8-mile round-trip hike to Tomales Point begins at the ranch. Although I didn’t have time to hike the entire trail, I ended up walking 6 miles.
Fog continued to linger into early afternoon, so I was not able to see the ocean. However, this did not stop the thrill I felt periodically hearing the breaking waves. My excitement was building because as I walked, hikers coming towards me gleefully mentioned there were elk ahead. At three miles in, I came upon a herd of tule elk was grazing right next to the trail. The scene looked like something out of a painting; it was stunning. I stopped to observe them for several minutes and take photos.
Seeing the elk was truly the highlight of my day!
On the return hike, the fog had burned off some to the east. I was pleased to see the shores of Tomales Bay!
Bear Valley Visitor Center
As I made my way out of the park, I stopped at the Bear Valley Visitor Center near Point Reyes Station. I browsed the gift shop and took a quick look through the displays on local history and wildlife.
According to the written guide, several hiking trails begin at the visitor center. These include trails leading to backcountry campsites—the only campgrounds in the park.
I also learned that the San Andreas Fault runs directly beneath the length of Tomales Bay. Consequently, it separates the Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland California. On my next visit, I want to walk the 0.6-mile paved loop just west of the parking lot that passes through a section of the San Andreas Fault zone. Cool!
Return Trip to Sausalito
For my return trip, I took Highway 1 south and then headed east from Olema on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. I was pleased with my choice as I drove through the heart of Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
The park is known for its 600 acres of old-growth redwood forest. I enjoyed the scenic drive, with towering redwoods creating a dense, shaded canopy over the road. As a result, the road felt narrow and winding, so I had to stay focused.
After passing through several miles of suburbia, I picked up Highway 101 in San Rafael and headed south to Sausalito.
Once again, I grabbed a bite to eat at FISH, a restaurant I can now highly recommend.
First Trip to Marin Headlands
Since it was only 7 p.m., I couldn’t resist a drive to the Marin Headlands, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Headlands are part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, covering approximately 2,100 acres and managed by the National Park Service.
Given I hadn’t done any research before arriving, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I took Conzelman Road and was excited to find a parking area where I could enjoy incredible views of San Francisco and the Bay Area.
From there, I walked around Hawk Hill and Battery 129. The views were stunning in every direction!
I was so intrigued by the Headlands that I headed farther into the park on Bunker Road. I enjoyed getting a preview of trails I might want to hike in the future. Along the way, I spotted the Headlands Center for the Arts, the Nike Missile Site, and Battery Mendell. In the distance, I could see Fort Cronkhite and a beach.
It was then that I knew I would certainly return here before my vacation ended!
July 21, 2026
Other Bay Area Adventures
Standford University and Apple Park
The next morning, I surprised myself by taking a drive south of San Francisco. I had always wanted to see Stanford University, and today was the day!
From Sausalito, I headed south on Highway 1 and then took Interstate 280 until I reached the Sand Hill Road exit in Menlo Park. From there, I headed east toward the Stanford campus, checking out areas of interest along the way.
The campus was very large, as expected, but I didn’t expect its beautiful, park-like atmosphere. It felt more like a vast, peaceful park than a university campus.
After a fun hour of exploring the campus, I headed over to downtown Palo Alto. I drove down University Avenue, which seemed vibrant and upscale. It was interesting to drive around the nearby neighborhoods, which also had a lovely, park-like feel.
Since I was fairly close to Apple Park, I decided to drive down to Cupertino and see it firsthand. I had read that Apple’s headquarters is centered around a giant, circular main building known as the “spaceship.”
The surrounding trees obscured much of the building during my visit, so I could only see part of it. However, it was impossible not to notice the numerous high-end private coach buses arriving. Apparently, these buses are used to transport employees to and from work. How fabulous is that?
By late morning, I had seen everything I wanted to see for now. I headed back toward San Francisco in moderately busy traffic. On my next visit to the Bay Area, I would love to head farther south and explore Carmel or Monterey!
Ferry Building – Hog Island Oyster Company
About an hour later, I arrived in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco to meet my friend at her home. From there, we headed into the city for a seafood lunch at Hog Island Oyster Company in the Ferry Building.
I had eaten there during a visit in 2024, and my friend was fully in agreement with a repeat visit. We spent about an hour exploring the waterfront and taking pictures. It was a beautiful day to be outside in San Francisco!
Fort Cronkhite and Rodeo Beach in the Marin Headlands
After a fun day of exploring and reconnecting with my friend, I headed back to the Marin Headlands around 4 p.m. This time, I drove to Fort Cronkhite and enjoyed Rodeo Beach for two hours.
I couldn’t believe the clear skies and 76-degree weather. It felt peaceful to watch the blue waves crash against the shore and search for unique pebbles on the beach.
Easy North Bay Coastal Hikes #4 – Rodeo Beach Coastal Trail and Tennessee Point Labyrinth
After that peaceful respite, I donned my hiking shoes and moved my car closer to the Rodeo Beach Coastal Trailhead. I walked for about 45 minutes without having planned a specific trail ahead of time.
I was tickled to end up at the Tennessee Point Labyrinth, where I was the sole person there and had amazing views of the coast.
On a future visit, I hope to take the higher Coast Trail up to Battery Townsley and farther on to the more remote Tennessee Beach!
July 22, 2026
Journey Home and Reflections
As I boarded my early flight home to Denver International Airport, I found myself smiling. I was reflecting on just how much this short trip to the San Francisco Bay Area had given me. Part of my happiness was due to accomplishing four easy North Bay coastal hikes!
I had dreamed of visiting Point Reyes National Seashore for years. Being there was even more special than I had imagined. I also discovered an unexpected love for the Marin Headlands. The quiet beaches and dramatic coastal views were unforgettable. Beyond the scenery, I enjoyed reconnecting with a friend. I explored places I had been curious about for years.
What made this trip especially rewarding was the feeling of freedom and adventure. Each morning brought new possibilities. I returned home feeling refreshed, grateful, and inspired. As always, it was especially joyful to return home and see furry friend Lyla Faye. No matter how wonderful my travels are, coming home to her is always one of the best parts of any trip.
Are you planning some easy North Bay coastal hikes? If so, I hope you enjoyed this post. If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration for your next adventure, check out my Destinations or Blog page. You might just discover a new place to add to your travel list!