Stinson Beach is a well-known coastal area in Marin County, about twenty miles north of San Francisco along Highway 1. The beach stretches roughly three miles and has wide, light-grey sand. It faces the Pacific Ocean and lies within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Waves are moderate and the slope is gentle, with scenic views of the Marin Headlands to the south.
Behind the beach is a small village containing restaurants, shops, and homes. Toward the north, the sandy area blends into the protected dunes and trails of Point Reyes National Seashore. Management of Stinson Beach is under the National Park Service, which provides lifeguard services, maintains the beach, and oversees environmental programs such as dune restoration and monitoring of marine mammals.
The beach is popular with day visitors from the San Francisco Bay Area, families, and hikers who wish to enjoy an accessible section of the Pacific coast. It offers a combination of recreational opportunities and natural preservation making it a notable part of one of California’s most visited national recreation areas.
Fun Fact About Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach is one of the few beaches in the San Francisco Bay Area where the water is often warmer during summer. Its location is somewhat protected, and the nearby Bolinas Lagoon helps to keep ocean temperatures milder. By late summer, the water can reach around 60–65 °F (15–18 °C) which makes swimming easier compared to many other beaches farther north in California where the ocean is usually colder.
History of Stinson Beach
The land that is now Stinson Beach was originally home to the Coast Miwok for many thousands of years. They used the shoreline for fishing, gathering food, and seasonal camps. Europeans first arrived in the late 1700s, with Spanish explorers making contact, followed by Mexican land grants in the 1830s.
In the 1860s, the Stinson family acquired the land. They ran a dairy ranch and began developing the area as a resort in the 1870s. The first hotel opened around 1870, and by the early 1900s, Stinson Beach had become a popular summer retreat for residents of San Francisco, who arrived by ferry and stagecoach. Much of the early buildings were destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fires, but the beach was rebuilt. In the 1920s, its popularity grew further with the use of automobiles.
In 1972, the National Park Service added the beach to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, providing public access and starting conservation efforts. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake caused some damage, but since then, dune restoration projects have been carried out to reduce erosion. Today, Stinson Beach remains a popular destination, offering recreation while keeping the coastal environment protected.
Things to Do at Stinson Beach
Swimming or wading in the designated safe areas where lifeguards are on the duty during the summer months.
Walking or jogging along the wide, firm sand, stretching toward the northern edge near Point Reyes National Seashore.
Having picnics in shaded areas near the parking lot or directly on the sand.
Surfing or bodyboarding on steady waves, which are often suited for intermediate-level surfers.
Hiking on some nearby trails within Golden Gate National Recreation Area such as Matt Davis Trail leading to the Bolinas Ridge.
Observing birds along the shore and surrounding wetlands, where shorebirds and seabirds are frequently seen.
Visitors can eat at the small cafés and restaurants along the beachfront, which serve fresh seafood, California-style meals and local wines. Main dishes usually cost between $15 and $35 USD.
Many stay on the sand to watch the sunset with clear views over the Pacific Ocean and toward the Marin Headlands.
Together, these activities show the combination of natural scenery and a simple recreation that makes Stinson Beach appealing to visitors.
Best Time to Visit Stinson Beach
The months from May to September are the main summer season. Temperatures usually range from 60 to 75 °F (15–24 °C), the ocean water is warmer, and many people visit during this time. It is quite good for some swimming and outdoor activities but weekends can be crowded.
From October to April, the weather is cooler and more mild, generally between 55 and 70 °F (13–21 °C), with lower humidity. This period is better for walking, hiking, and enjoying the beach with fewer visitors. Occasional rain or fog may happen, but overall the conditions are calmer and quieter.
How to Get to Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach can be reached using the coastal roads of California in different ways:
From San Francisco, it takes about 45 to 60 minutes by car going north on Highway 1 through Marin County, a distance around 20 miles.
From San Francisco International Airport, the drive is usually 1 to 1.5 hours using Highway 101 north and then Highway 1.
By bus, travelers can take Golden Gate Transit Route 10 from San Francisco, which takes about an hour and costs $5–$10 USD, or use Marin Transit from San Rafael.
Parking is available in public lots near the beach, generally $10–$15 USD per day, or along Panoramic Highway.
